Whew! What a semester. You guys have worked so hard and it is an honor to be your teacher. You have no idea how much I enjoy our time together each day. I'm looking forward to great things after Christmas.
For this week's blog, please spend at least 30 minutes on www.earlyamerica.com. Check out the stories, music, videos, documentsim ages etc. Learn something new. Remind yourself of thing's we've covered. In the comments section, list the 20 most interesting things you "discovered" on this website. This week's blog is worth 100 points.
Monday, December 10, 2012
Monday, December 3, 2012
Yorktown: The End of the Beginning
The war had many twists and turns and eventually Cornwallis found himself trapped at Yorktown. A French naval fleet off the coast of Virginia and Washington's men, along with Rochambeau's as well, facing him to the west. The battle lasted ten days and Cornwallis finally waved the proverbial white flag. This was not the last battle of the war, as many assume, but it was the last major victory for the Patriots and signaled the eventual defeat of the British. Remember, the British surrendered in October of 1781 and the Treaty of Paris was not finalized until 1783.
For this week's blog, read this article and watch these videos about the British surrender at Yorktown. (FYI: At the end of Part One on YouTube you'll be prompted to "click here for the next part". Make sure you do that so you can see the entire episode.) Included in the comments section your general thoughts on Yorktown. Should Cornwallis have surrendered? Was it a brilliant tactical move by the Patriots or another blunder by the British?
For this week's blog, read this article and watch these videos about the British surrender at Yorktown. (FYI: At the end of Part One on YouTube you'll be prompted to "click here for the next part". Make sure you do that so you can see the entire episode.) Included in the comments section your general thoughts on Yorktown. Should Cornwallis have surrendered? Was it a brilliant tactical move by the Patriots or another blunder by the British?
Monday, November 26, 2012
The Battle of Saratoga: The Turning Point
The Battle of Saratoga, a major victory for the Continental Army in 1777, could have been a massive victory for the British. Their famous "Three-Pronged Attack" on New York never fully developed, giving the Patriots a fighting chance. Read through this website carefully and in the comments section explain just exactly why Saratoga stands out as the most important victory for the Patriots. Was it a Patriot success or a British failure?
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Valley Forge: The Worst Of Times OR When Things Got Better
Washington and his men spent a difficult winter at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania from the end of 1777 to the early months of 1778. One of the strange customs of war from the 18th Century is that armies would basically call a cease-fire when the weather turned cold. As winter would approach, each army would find a place to hibernate until the fighting would resume in spring. Washington's choice was Valley Forge.
It is well documented how miserable his men were during this time. There was little food, adequate clothing or proper shelter to protect the men from the winter winds. Washington, in display of one of his best qualities, refused to live in comfort while his men suffered. He remained in the camp until winter thawed out.
As difficult as this time was, the men in Washington's camp received the best training of their "careers" up to that point. Prussian military leader Friedrich Von Steuben came to the aid of Washington and drilled his men until they were an actual fighting force. For this week's blog, I want you to read this story, watch part one and part two of this video series and in the comments write about your impression of Washington, Von Steuben and the soldiers in light of their struggle at Valley Forge.
It is well documented how miserable his men were during this time. There was little food, adequate clothing or proper shelter to protect the men from the winter winds. Washington, in display of one of his best qualities, refused to live in comfort while his men suffered. He remained in the camp until winter thawed out.
As difficult as this time was, the men in Washington's camp received the best training of their "careers" up to that point. Prussian military leader Friedrich Von Steuben came to the aid of Washington and drilled his men until they were an actual fighting force. For this week's blog, I want you to read this story, watch part one and part two of this video series and in the comments write about your impression of Washington, Von Steuben and the soldiers in light of their struggle at Valley Forge.
Monday, November 12, 2012
The Declaration of Independence: Just How Important Is It?
Jefferson's opus. An American treasure. A masterpiece. All phrases used to describe the DoI...but how important is it really. As we discussed in class last week, the DoI did not win the war. It was more a statement of solidarity amongst the colonists. Sort of a "Let's Do This!" type moment. It certainly did not win the war nor did it scare the British into submission.
Could you imagine if the Washington was forced to surrender at some important battle and he waved the DoI around yelling "You can't beat me! You can't beat us! We've declared our independence so haha! Look...we even signed our names in cursive at the bottom!" That would have been ridiculous.
Maybe it goes without saying, but what really won the war was victory in battles that caused the conflict to drag on and on for years. The British grew increasingly weary, frustrated and embarrassed the longer the war took. After the Battle of Yorktown in 1781, the war was basically over. The Treaty of Paris 1783 sealed the fate of the British and served as a bookend to this colonial conflict.
So which is more important: the Declaration of Independence or the Treaty of Paris 1783. Pick a side and give your best argument in the comments section.
Could you imagine if the Washington was forced to surrender at some important battle and he waved the DoI around yelling "You can't beat me! You can't beat us! We've declared our independence so haha! Look...we even signed our names in cursive at the bottom!" That would have been ridiculous.
Maybe it goes without saying, but what really won the war was victory in battles that caused the conflict to drag on and on for years. The British grew increasingly weary, frustrated and embarrassed the longer the war took. After the Battle of Yorktown in 1781, the war was basically over. The Treaty of Paris 1783 sealed the fate of the British and served as a bookend to this colonial conflict.
So which is more important: the Declaration of Independence or the Treaty of Paris 1783. Pick a side and give your best argument in the comments section.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
The Boston "Massacre": Trouble In Paradise?
Let me catch you up to speed. People from Europe came to America for LOTS of different reasons. Some came for political asylum, some for religious freedom, some tried to escape their mounting debts back home and some came for the fun of it. Either way, as time passed and the colonies grew a certain "American Culture" began to develop. All these different cultures, living thousands of miles from home and across an entire ocean, began to develop a new identity. It's not that they considered themselves as "Americans". They did, however, begin to identify with their home colony (i.e. "I'm a Virginian" etc.) The confusing part is that while this new identity was being developed, the colonists were still fully recognized as British citizens. That meant the King and Parliament (England's version of Congress) were still in control. Some colonies had more self-government than others, but all answered ultimately to the Mother Country.
When the French/Indian War started, the colonists needed British troops help to defend their land. This arrangement worked because England A) hated France and B) wanted to see their colonies survive so they could continue to make a profit off them. So the war was fought and England won, and then the trouble started. William Pitt, the British Prime Minister (their version of a president) began taxing the colonies more heavily than they were used to in order to pay off the debt racked up by the French and Indian War. And who could blame him? England sent her troops across the ocean and paid for much of the war cost up front. You cannot blame them for wanting a return on their investment. Plus, the colonies belonged to England in the first place, so what's the big deal?
The problem was the colonists had basically been left alone for many decades leading up to the war with France. They had enjoyed the freedom this "salutary neglect" (fancy phrase :-) ) had brought. Now they resented England playing a more active role in colonial affairs. As the reins tightened, many colonists began to advocate more freedom. It is important to note that the original requests from the colonists were not for independence. That is a common misconception. What the colonists wanted, at least in the early years after the F/I War, was their rights as British citizens to be recognized. To be treated like they would be if they lived in England. The cries for independence rang out only after their requests for equal rights were ignored.
All of that background leads us to this week's topic: The Boston Massacre. In March of 1770 an unruly crowd of Bostonians were harassing a group of British soldiers who were guarding a local customs (tax) house. Heated words were exchanged, the colonists threw sticks, stones and snow balls at the soldiers and shots were fired. Five colonists were killed and the soldiers were put on trial. Ironically, John Adams (the cousin of Samuel Adams who was probably the most radical leader of the Sons of Liberty) was hired to defend the British soldiers against their charges of murder. Amazingly, Adams convinced the jury of the innocence of the soldiers and they were free to go.
First, read this story of the Boston Massacre from the perspective of the Captain of the British soldiers involved in this scuffle. Then, look at this portrayal of the events by Bostonian silversmith Paul Revere. Be sure to read the explanation as well as look at the image. There should be an option at the bottom of the page to view Revere's image in an enlarged view.
Is there any difference in the way the same incident was portrayed by the two sides? If so, why do you think that is? How could the same story be told two different ways?
When the French/Indian War started, the colonists needed British troops help to defend their land. This arrangement worked because England A) hated France and B) wanted to see their colonies survive so they could continue to make a profit off them. So the war was fought and England won, and then the trouble started. William Pitt, the British Prime Minister (their version of a president) began taxing the colonies more heavily than they were used to in order to pay off the debt racked up by the French and Indian War. And who could blame him? England sent her troops across the ocean and paid for much of the war cost up front. You cannot blame them for wanting a return on their investment. Plus, the colonies belonged to England in the first place, so what's the big deal?
The problem was the colonists had basically been left alone for many decades leading up to the war with France. They had enjoyed the freedom this "salutary neglect" (fancy phrase :-) ) had brought. Now they resented England playing a more active role in colonial affairs. As the reins tightened, many colonists began to advocate more freedom. It is important to note that the original requests from the colonists were not for independence. That is a common misconception. What the colonists wanted, at least in the early years after the F/I War, was their rights as British citizens to be recognized. To be treated like they would be if they lived in England. The cries for independence rang out only after their requests for equal rights were ignored.
All of that background leads us to this week's topic: The Boston Massacre. In March of 1770 an unruly crowd of Bostonians were harassing a group of British soldiers who were guarding a local customs (tax) house. Heated words were exchanged, the colonists threw sticks, stones and snow balls at the soldiers and shots were fired. Five colonists were killed and the soldiers were put on trial. Ironically, John Adams (the cousin of Samuel Adams who was probably the most radical leader of the Sons of Liberty) was hired to defend the British soldiers against their charges of murder. Amazingly, Adams convinced the jury of the innocence of the soldiers and they were free to go.
First, read this story of the Boston Massacre from the perspective of the Captain of the British soldiers involved in this scuffle. Then, look at this portrayal of the events by Bostonian silversmith Paul Revere. Be sure to read the explanation as well as look at the image. There should be an option at the bottom of the page to view Revere's image in an enlarged view.
Is there any difference in the way the same incident was portrayed by the two sides? If so, why do you think that is? How could the same story be told two different ways?
Monday, October 22, 2012
Colonial Culture: What Life Used To Be Like
How about some lighter fare this week? We could all use a breather after the Middle Passage blog last week.
Check out the following sites on colonial culture. In the comments section, write about life now versus then. Which do you prefer?
Rules Of Being A Gentlemen
Colonial Music-Be sure to click on the links. Take some time to explore this site.
Colonial Art-Notice not only the style but also the clothes portrayed in the portraits. Be sure to read the article as well as looking at the pictures.
Colonial Games-After you view the games page, check out at least two of the other links on the left side of the page.
Enjoy!
Check out the following sites on colonial culture. In the comments section, write about life now versus then. Which do you prefer?
Rules Of Being A Gentlemen
Colonial Music-Be sure to click on the links. Take some time to explore this site.
Colonial Art-Notice not only the style but also the clothes portrayed in the portraits. Be sure to read the article as well as looking at the pictures.
Colonial Games-After you view the games page, check out at least two of the other links on the left side of the page.
Enjoy!
Monday, October 15, 2012
The Middle Passage: The Anti-Cruise
Africans were enslaved by European nations, and ultimately the country of America, for various reasons. Perhaps the most obvious was if you could force someone into labor and not pay them, you could keep all the profit to yourself. Evil as it sounds, and horrific as it was, the system was profitable on many levels which sustained its growth.
One thing to keep in mind is many of the Africans sold into slavery were captured by their own people, locked in cages on the west coast and waited for a slave ship to dock in order to be transported to America, Brazil or some other location. This journey across the Atlantic is known as the Middle Passage. Many Africans died, or attempted suicide, during this voyage because they either knew what was coming and wanted to escape their fate, or they had no idea what was coming and never wanted to find out. Many of them refused to eat in order to induce starvation, but the ship captains would pry their mouths open and force feed the slaves in order to keep them nourished.
Read this account of a young African's journey on the Middle Passage. What are your reactions? Is there anyway to excuse the behavior of people involved in trading slaves? (FYI: When the passage mentions "necessary tubs"...it means a bucket used as a toilet)
One thing to keep in mind is many of the Africans sold into slavery were captured by their own people, locked in cages on the west coast and waited for a slave ship to dock in order to be transported to America, Brazil or some other location. This journey across the Atlantic is known as the Middle Passage. Many Africans died, or attempted suicide, during this voyage because they either knew what was coming and wanted to escape their fate, or they had no idea what was coming and never wanted to find out. Many of them refused to eat in order to induce starvation, but the ship captains would pry their mouths open and force feed the slaves in order to keep them nourished.
Read this account of a young African's journey on the Middle Passage. What are your reactions? Is there anyway to excuse the behavior of people involved in trading slaves? (FYI: When the passage mentions "necessary tubs"...it means a bucket used as a toilet)
Monday, October 1, 2012
The Puritans in Massachusetts: Religious Nuts or Devout Disciples?
Welcome to the last blog of the first quarter. Once again I'd like to say how much I appreciate the effort you all put into the comments each week. It means a lot to me, as a teacher, to see you taking things so seriously. It does not go unnoticed.
We could spend the entire semester on the settling of the thirteen colonies, but we don't have that much time. Each region, Southern, Middle and New England, was very distinct for political, religious and cultural reasons. One of the most unique events in the colonial era occurred in the New England colony of Massachusetts.
Massachusetts Bay Colony (aka Massachusetts) was settled beginning in the 1630s by a religious group from Europe known as the Puritans. These were men and women who were so dissatisfied by the state of religious affairs in England they thought it better to separate (which is why they were called Separatists) and start their own colony in America. One of their earliest leaders, John Winthrop, wanted Massachusetts to be a "city upon a hill" for all the world to admire and imitate.
During the 1630s, over 20,000 people left England to join the Puritans in Massachusetts. The colony continued to grow and thrive in the New World.
Puritans have acquired a bad reputation because of their strict adherence to the Bible. The general stereotype of a Puritan is someone who never smiles or has any fun, always wears black, avoids all worldly pleasures, works all the time and when they are not working, they are reading the Bible or praying. Basically, a real downer.
Part of this stereotype, like most stereotypes, comes from accurate aspects of the Puritan life that are merely exaggerated. Visit this website for a description of Puritan beliefs.
Perhaps the biggest blunder in Puritan history is what has garnered much of the negative attention. In the 1690s three women were suspected of "signing the Devil's compact", aka being witches. Soon the accusations spread throughout the small town of Salem, Massachusetts until a court had to be established to determine who was and was not a witch. If you denied being a witch but accused someone else of being a witch, it usually backfired because "it takes one to know one". Eventually the wife of the Governor of Massachusetts was accused of witchcraft and the Governor put a stop to the proceedings. Must be nice to have power, huh?
When it was all said and done, about 20 people were hung for being witches. Two dogs were condemned as well. Watch this video and read this primary source to get a better understand of the events surrounding the Salem Witch Trials. Use the comments section as a sounding board for your thoughts on this historical event. What is the problem when everyone jumps on board with an idea, even if the idea is ridiculous?
*Remember, your comments are due by Friday this week because it is the last day of the quarter. Also, since this blog counts as 100 points, your comments must be a minimum of 200 words this week.
We could spend the entire semester on the settling of the thirteen colonies, but we don't have that much time. Each region, Southern, Middle and New England, was very distinct for political, religious and cultural reasons. One of the most unique events in the colonial era occurred in the New England colony of Massachusetts.
Massachusetts Bay Colony (aka Massachusetts) was settled beginning in the 1630s by a religious group from Europe known as the Puritans. These were men and women who were so dissatisfied by the state of religious affairs in England they thought it better to separate (which is why they were called Separatists) and start their own colony in America. One of their earliest leaders, John Winthrop, wanted Massachusetts to be a "city upon a hill" for all the world to admire and imitate.
During the 1630s, over 20,000 people left England to join the Puritans in Massachusetts. The colony continued to grow and thrive in the New World.
Puritans have acquired a bad reputation because of their strict adherence to the Bible. The general stereotype of a Puritan is someone who never smiles or has any fun, always wears black, avoids all worldly pleasures, works all the time and when they are not working, they are reading the Bible or praying. Basically, a real downer.
Part of this stereotype, like most stereotypes, comes from accurate aspects of the Puritan life that are merely exaggerated. Visit this website for a description of Puritan beliefs.
Perhaps the biggest blunder in Puritan history is what has garnered much of the negative attention. In the 1690s three women were suspected of "signing the Devil's compact", aka being witches. Soon the accusations spread throughout the small town of Salem, Massachusetts until a court had to be established to determine who was and was not a witch. If you denied being a witch but accused someone else of being a witch, it usually backfired because "it takes one to know one". Eventually the wife of the Governor of Massachusetts was accused of witchcraft and the Governor put a stop to the proceedings. Must be nice to have power, huh?
When it was all said and done, about 20 people were hung for being witches. Two dogs were condemned as well. Watch this video and read this primary source to get a better understand of the events surrounding the Salem Witch Trials. Use the comments section as a sounding board for your thoughts on this historical event. What is the problem when everyone jumps on board with an idea, even if the idea is ridiculous?
*Remember, your comments are due by Friday this week because it is the last day of the quarter. Also, since this blog counts as 100 points, your comments must be a minimum of 200 words this week.
Monday, September 17, 2012
Jamestown: Eternal Love or Eternal Struggle?
Roanoke may be famous for failing and being a mystery, but Jamestown is famous for surviving. In 1606, the Virginia Jointstock Company asked for permission to try colonizing America again. A jointstock company is a group of people, in this case all men, who gather their money and resources together to send an expedition in order to colonize. If the group is successful, the jointstock company makes a profit. If it fails, they have lost their investment. Anyway, the Virginia Company sent a group to colonize and in 1607 Jamestown was settled on the coast of Virginia on the James River. (By the way, are you seeing a pattern here of how things were named?) The group's main focus was gold, which meant planting stable crops for sustenance was not a priority. As a result, LOTS of men died due to starvation (hence "Starving Time"). Read this little ditty about how desperate they were for food. (I apologize for the one curse word in the opening paragraph. I did not realize that was in there until after the post went live. Just ignore it please.)
Another legacy of Jamestown is the relationship between John Smith (the man who got the colony on track) and Pocahontas. We will be discussing this topic all week so I'm not going to get into it here. What I want you to do is examine the four photos below and read this story. Why do you think, out of all the important aspects of Jamestown and the beginnings of America, does this relationship capture out attention. Especially when most people think it was romantic, thanks to Disney, when it really was not. Do you have a problem with the Disney characters looking NOTHING LIKE the actual people from the 17th Century?
Another legacy of Jamestown is the relationship between John Smith (the man who got the colony on track) and Pocahontas. We will be discussing this topic all week so I'm not going to get into it here. What I want you to do is examine the four photos below and read this story. Why do you think, out of all the important aspects of Jamestown and the beginnings of America, does this relationship capture out attention. Especially when most people think it was romantic, thanks to Disney, when it really was not. Do you have a problem with the Disney characters looking NOTHING LIKE the actual people from the 17th Century?
Monday, September 10, 2012
Roanoke: The Lost Colony
All of this exploration and European rivalry eventually trickled its way into the English bloodstream. After England defeated the Spanish Armada (most powerful navy in the world at that time) in 1588, they felt secure enough to travel across the Atlantic and try their hand at colonization.
One of the first major attempts was a colony off the coast of North Carolina on Roanoke Island. Set up by Sir Walter Raleigh, a group traveled to North America, survived for few years and then disappeared. To this day no one knows what happened to this English colony.
Read this story about the possible theories explaining their disappearance. In the comments section, choose the theory that makes the most sense to you and explain why. Also, discuss what would have been some of the difficulties of living in a brand new land 3,000 miles away from home.
One of the first major attempts was a colony off the coast of North Carolina on Roanoke Island. Set up by Sir Walter Raleigh, a group traveled to North America, survived for few years and then disappeared. To this day no one knows what happened to this English colony.
Read this story about the possible theories explaining their disappearance. In the comments section, choose the theory that makes the most sense to you and explain why. Also, discuss what would have been some of the difficulties of living in a brand new land 3,000 miles away from home.
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
The Columbian Exchange: When The World Began To Come Together
Let's have a more pleasant topic this week shall we?
One of the effects of Columbus' voyages is the globalization of world resources. This phrase indicates the goods, diseases, animals and other products from Europe, Africa and the Americas were now being carried back and forth due to the Age of Exploration.
Study the graphic below. In the comments section, describe what you think are the most important items (whether positive or negative) that were being transmitted globally for the first time.
One of the effects of Columbus' voyages is the globalization of world resources. This phrase indicates the goods, diseases, animals and other products from Europe, Africa and the Americas were now being carried back and forth due to the Age of Exploration.
Study the graphic below. In the comments section, describe what you think are the most important items (whether positive or negative) that were being transmitted globally for the first time.
Monday, August 27, 2012
Christopher Columbus: The Hitler of the 15th Century?
So...ole CC wasn't the guy you thought he was eh? Well, that's called education my friends. As it turns out, most people don't know, or don't like to think about, the realities of the Europeans "finding the Americas". Chapter One in our text clearly showed both North and South America was filled with millions of indigenous peoples from at least 2,000 separate tribes. So obviously Columbus did not "discover" anything.
The real trouble with Columbus is the struggle to appropriately memorialize him. It is undeniable that his "glorious fail" in 1492 led to the founding of America. It is also undeniable that he had no idea what he had done and his treatment of the natives was simply atrocious.
For this week's blog, please watch this video and this video. What versions of Columbus' life in the Americas are these videos telling. Which one do you think is the most appropriate? Is either one out of line either by being too harsh or too childish?
The real trouble with Columbus is the struggle to appropriately memorialize him. It is undeniable that his "glorious fail" in 1492 led to the founding of America. It is also undeniable that he had no idea what he had done and his treatment of the natives was simply atrocious.
For this week's blog, please watch this video and this video. What versions of Columbus' life in the Americas are these videos telling. Which one do you think is the most appropriate? Is either one out of line either by being too harsh or too childish?
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Columbus: The Most Glorious Fail
Christopher Columbus had no intention of finding a New World. He was sailing westward across the Atlantic in hopes of finding a faster water route to Asia. He wanted to bring wealth and prestige to the Spanish government, and to himself. Instead, using maps that were incorrect (although he did not know they were incorrect) he ran into an island in the Caribbean and thought he was near India. This is why, of course, he called the locals Indians!
The legacy of Columbus is one of bravery and accidental genius. There is a dark side to the man, however. We will get to that on our next blog. For now, read this story and discuss in the comments section your initial thoughts on Columbus.
The legacy of Columbus is one of bravery and accidental genius. There is a dark side to the man, however. We will get to that on our next blog. For now, read this story and discuss in the comments section your initial thoughts on Columbus.
Monday, August 13, 2012
Pre-Columbian Americas: More Civilized Than You May Think
A common misconception about life in the Americas before the Europeans showed up is that early societies were backwards and uncivilized compared to the great European explorers of that era. While life may have been more primitive for some native groups, many societies were very complex with intricate religious and social systems. One excellent example was the Aztecs.
The Aztecs settled in the Lake Texcoco region of Mexico and built their capital city, Tenochtitlan, in the middle of this lake. When Hernan Cortes and his men came upon the city they were astonished to see something so magnificent in the "New World". Watch this video for further explanation on the construction of this city.
In the comments section below, write about the most interesting thing from the video. Also, address what it must have been like for Europeans to assume the people they would encounter would be less civilized than them only to discover a major city like Tenochtitlan? Would they be impressed? Nervous? Jealous? Excited? Do not forget to conclude your comments with the number of words in parentheses.
The Aztecs settled in the Lake Texcoco region of Mexico and built their capital city, Tenochtitlan, in the middle of this lake. When Hernan Cortes and his men came upon the city they were astonished to see something so magnificent in the "New World". Watch this video for further explanation on the construction of this city.
In the comments section below, write about the most interesting thing from the video. Also, address what it must have been like for Europeans to assume the people they would encounter would be less civilized than them only to discover a major city like Tenochtitlan? Would they be impressed? Nervous? Jealous? Excited? Do not forget to conclude your comments with the number of words in parentheses.
Monday, May 7, 2012
The Civil War: So Much More Than Politics & Slavery
Wars are not just battles. Wars are not just politicians parading their power by moving men and money on command. Wars are not weapons. Wars cannot be defined by any one thing, but I would dare say one word describes most wars: people. People fight wars, not countries. People die in wars. Families lose loved ones. Husbands are taken from their wives and children. People command troops. People serve as nurses. Yes...people are wars.
And since people are wars, the best learning tools often are the poetry and music created by people involved in conflict. Visit this website and read five Confederate poems, five Union poems and listen to five songs. In the comments section below choose your favorite from each category and explain what it means and why you liked it. You should have one paragraph per choice. This will be the last blog of the year, so the word count must be 300.
And since people are wars, the best learning tools often are the poetry and music created by people involved in conflict. Visit this website and read five Confederate poems, five Union poems and listen to five songs. In the comments section below choose your favorite from each category and explain what it means and why you liked it. You should have one paragraph per choice. This will be the last blog of the year, so the word count must be 300.
Monday, April 30, 2012
John Brown: The Ultimate Conflicting Figure
Passion is a good thing. I believe God gives people talents and passion about certain things so they will work hard and glorify Him through their efforts. Sometimes, though, people are misguided on how to effectively channel their passion which can end disastrously. Perhaps no better example exists in American history than John Brown.
Brown was a RADICAL abolitionist who favored violence and slave uprisings over civil discourse and national legislation. He was involved in Bleeding Kansas, a "pre Civil War of sorts in the Midwest", where some of his men brutally slaughtered proslavery citizens during the dead of night. He never admitted to killing anyone personally, but he witnessed countless violent acts perpetrated by his followers. He laid low for a while after these so-called "Pottawatomie Massacres", but popped back upon the national radar in Harpers Ferry, VA.
Harpers Ferry was a federal arsenal where weapons, ammunition and gun powder were stored. His plan was to overtake the arsenal, disperse the inventory to slaves and instigate America's largest slave insurrection. He did overtake the arsenal, but few slaves joined in the fight and Brown was captured while his men fled. He was hung for treason in October 1859. Slavery was eventually abolished, but he was not alive to see it.
Brown, as you can imagine, was well loved by some and reviled by others. A free African American wrote to Brown saying, "I thank you that you have been brave enough to reach out your hands to the crushed and blighted of my race." A newspaper in the South held the opposite view. "The miserable old traitor and murderer belongs to the gallows (the place where a person is hung), and the gallows will have its own."
So, was he right to take radical measures to fight against an institution as evil as slavery? Is it ever justifiable to "do wrong to do good"? Watch this video and in the comments section thoughtfully analyze Brown's actions. Was he to be commended because slavery was so bad, or was he a villain?
Brown was a RADICAL abolitionist who favored violence and slave uprisings over civil discourse and national legislation. He was involved in Bleeding Kansas, a "pre Civil War of sorts in the Midwest", where some of his men brutally slaughtered proslavery citizens during the dead of night. He never admitted to killing anyone personally, but he witnessed countless violent acts perpetrated by his followers. He laid low for a while after these so-called "Pottawatomie Massacres", but popped back upon the national radar in Harpers Ferry, VA.
Harpers Ferry was a federal arsenal where weapons, ammunition and gun powder were stored. His plan was to overtake the arsenal, disperse the inventory to slaves and instigate America's largest slave insurrection. He did overtake the arsenal, but few slaves joined in the fight and Brown was captured while his men fled. He was hung for treason in October 1859. Slavery was eventually abolished, but he was not alive to see it.
Brown, as you can imagine, was well loved by some and reviled by others. A free African American wrote to Brown saying, "I thank you that you have been brave enough to reach out your hands to the crushed and blighted of my race." A newspaper in the South held the opposite view. "The miserable old traitor and murderer belongs to the gallows (the place where a person is hung), and the gallows will have its own."
So, was he right to take radical measures to fight against an institution as evil as slavery? Is it ever justifiable to "do wrong to do good"? Watch this video and in the comments section thoughtfully analyze Brown's actions. Was he to be commended because slavery was so bad, or was he a villain?
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Utopias: Religious Devotion or Congregational Hiding?
Utopian movements played a significant role in the settling of America. Such movements, typically religious in nature, stem from the desire to live a holy and secluded life free from the dictates of society. In order to achieve this "ideal society", believers usually spent their days in self-sufficient communities in secluded areas in order to maximize their separation from "the world".
One famous Utopian movement that has survived is the Mormons. Joseph Smith received his visions for this "religion" in New York, but was persecuted greatly. His tribe moved to the Midwest, where Smith was killed for his beliefs. Brigham Young took the reins and led his people into Utah. It was here he established the community known as Deseret, which was later incorporated into America after the Mexican War. Obviously, the Mormon movement has thrived worldwide and they are still a very viable community. In fact, the presumptive Republican nominee for this fall's General Election is a practicing Mormon.
Most Utopian movements fail because their beliefs are, well, weird. The Mormons survived in spite of their polygamy (multiple wives) policy. Other groups have folded because their leader, under the guise of "spiritual leadership", really just wanted to control people. In most cases, as people began to speak out against the leader they would be ostracized or physically punished. This treatment usually proved the rebel's point rather than quieted the uproar.
Another famous American Utopian movement was the Shakers. These people were an offshoot of the Quaker movement and got their name for the dances they performed during their church services. Read this article to discover a personal account of one man's stay with the Shakers. In the comments section, discuss your thoughts on Utopian movements. Are people to be commended for abandoning society in order to follow their strict religious beliefs? Do you see it more of a "hiding game" where people can't deal with society so they run away under the banner of "freedom of religion"?
One famous Utopian movement that has survived is the Mormons. Joseph Smith received his visions for this "religion" in New York, but was persecuted greatly. His tribe moved to the Midwest, where Smith was killed for his beliefs. Brigham Young took the reins and led his people into Utah. It was here he established the community known as Deseret, which was later incorporated into America after the Mexican War. Obviously, the Mormon movement has thrived worldwide and they are still a very viable community. In fact, the presumptive Republican nominee for this fall's General Election is a practicing Mormon.
Most Utopian movements fail because their beliefs are, well, weird. The Mormons survived in spite of their polygamy (multiple wives) policy. Other groups have folded because their leader, under the guise of "spiritual leadership", really just wanted to control people. In most cases, as people began to speak out against the leader they would be ostracized or physically punished. This treatment usually proved the rebel's point rather than quieted the uproar.
Another famous American Utopian movement was the Shakers. These people were an offshoot of the Quaker movement and got their name for the dances they performed during their church services. Read this article to discover a personal account of one man's stay with the Shakers. In the comments section, discuss your thoughts on Utopian movements. Are people to be commended for abandoning society in order to follow their strict religious beliefs? Do you see it more of a "hiding game" where people can't deal with society so they run away under the banner of "freedom of religion"?
Monday, April 16, 2012
The Demon Drink: Alcohol Reform in America
Temperance societies began to spring up in major cities across the country. Most societies called for a more moderate approach to alcohol rather than total prohibition. In fact, most states that passed prohibition laws quickly repealed them because the government could not tax an illegal (liquor in this case) substance. Also, generally speaking, many of the temperance unions were religious in nature.
For this week's blog, you will listen to this podcast and examine the cartoon below from 1846. In your comments, please include the following 3 items: 1) The most interesting point made by the professor who was interviewed in the podcast. 2) Your interpretation of this cartoon's meaning. 3) Create your own anti-liquor slogan as if you were the leader of a temperance union.
The steps in this cartoon, titled "The Drunkard's Progress", are as follows:
1) A Glass With A Friend
2) A Glass To Keep The Bold Chat
3) A Glass Too Much
4) Drunk & Riotous
5) The Summit Attained. Jolly Companions. A Confirmed Drunkard.
6) Poverty & Disease
7) Forsaken By Friends
8) Desperation & Crime
9) Death By Suicide
Monday, April 9, 2012
The Donner Party: The Unsavory Side of Westward Expansion
The Donner Party is one of the most infamous tales of the dangers of American westward expansion. These people, in an attempt to take a shortcut, lengthened their journey and caused more harm for their people. Read this story and answer the following questions in the comments section:
1) Would you have done the same things the Donner Party did to survive?
2) Was it wrong of them to go to such lengths to survive?
1) Would you have done the same things the Donner Party did to survive?
2) Was it wrong of them to go to such lengths to survive?
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
What If?
An interesting way to look back at history is to play the "What If?" game. As the name states, you take an event you are studying, look at a decision someone made, and ask yourself "What if they had done something different?" This type of game usually lends itself to great discussion and debate.
So I'm going to set up a "What If?" and in the comments section you are going to answer. Feel free to reference other's comments and respectfully disagree if you do not see eye-to-eye.
Jackson Era "What If?" Scenario
Jackson's first major act as president, as you know, was to push the Indian Removal Act through Congress. When challenged in the courts by Samuel Worcester, Chief Justice John Marshall sided with the natives. Jackson, upon hearing the verdict, basically refused to follow it. What if Jackson had submitted to Marshall's authority? What if Jackson pulled back the reins on removal at that point? Would anything really have changed?
So I'm going to set up a "What If?" and in the comments section you are going to answer. Feel free to reference other's comments and respectfully disagree if you do not see eye-to-eye.
Jackson Era "What If?" Scenario
Jackson's first major act as president, as you know, was to push the Indian Removal Act through Congress. When challenged in the courts by Samuel Worcester, Chief Justice John Marshall sided with the natives. Jackson, upon hearing the verdict, basically refused to follow it. What if Jackson had submitted to Marshall's authority? What if Jackson pulled back the reins on removal at that point? Would anything really have changed?
Monday, March 12, 2012
Andrew Jackson: A Man Of The People?
Andrew Jackson, after being humiliated by Clay and J.Q. Adams in the 1824 Election, vowed to exact his revenge on the two men. And so he did. By spreading unbelievable lies, even by today's standards, Jackson won the personality contest against Adams in 1828 (largely because Adams had no personality). Four years later he defeated Henry Clay in the Election of 1832 completing his vow. The difficult campaigning cost him his dear wife Rachel, a loss from which he never fully recovered.
During his eight years in office, Jackson faced three major crises/events: Indian Removal, the South Carolina Nullification Crisis and the Veto of the National Bank. The political cartoon below addresses one of those issues. Which one do you think it is? Was the author of this cartoon, who to this day is unknown, a supporter or opponent of Jackson? In your comments explain how you came to this decision by using the elements in the cartoon.
During his eight years in office, Jackson faced three major crises/events: Indian Removal, the South Carolina Nullification Crisis and the Veto of the National Bank. The political cartoon below addresses one of those issues. Which one do you think it is? Was the author of this cartoon, who to this day is unknown, a supporter or opponent of Jackson? In your comments explain how you came to this decision by using the elements in the cartoon.
Monday, March 5, 2012
The Monroe Doctrine: Monroe Says "Halt!" To Europe
James Monroe's presidency is often referred to as the "Era of Good Feelings", mainly because he did not preside over any international militant conflicts. Domestically, border disputes in Florida and other places led to even more skirmishes with the natives. In fact, Andrew Jackson invaded Florida to fight the Seminoles basically without the approval or permission of the Federal Government. But that's a whole other story...
The other striking aspect of James Monroe's two terms in office is what is referred to as the "Monroe Doctrine". Here is the key section of this speech given in December 1823: North and South America "are henceforth not to be considered as subjects for future colonization by any European powers." Basically, Monroe (and John Q. Adams-his Secretary of State-who wrote the speech) were saying the Western Hemisphere was off limits to Europe from that point forward. If anyone was going to control, colonize or tamper with Latin & South America, it would be US. (Get it? US? U.S.? Hahaha). Also, to be fair, the Doctrine also claimed America would not mess with Europe or become involved in their issues.
The Doctrine was basically forgotten until Polk's administration in the 1840s when we went to war with Mexico/Spain. European countries did leave this hemisphere alone, largely because the British Navy patrolled the ocean and not because America's army was imposing and powerful.
Take a look at these political cartoons below. In the comment sections, describe how each cartoon demonstrates/illustrates the Monroe Doctrine. Also, why do you think Monroe and his administration felt they had the right to declare an entire hemisphere "off limits" to the rest of the world?
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| The sign in the bottom-right corner says "Special Notice: All Guests Are Welcome But They Must Not Bring Their Guns." |
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Missouri Compromise: The Deal That Was Supposed To Solve Everything
Thanks to Jefferson's decision to side-step the Constitution and purchase the Louisiana Territory, America now had a brand new problem on her hands. As more and more settlers flooded the territory west of the Mississippi River to create new states, how would the issue of slavery expansion be settled? Should each new state be allowed to decide on their own (a philosophy known as popular sovereignty), or should the federal government intervene and lay out a plan?
In 1820, the territory of Missouri applied for statehood. If accepted, Missouri would be the 21st state in the Union (11 slave vs. 10 free). The South was excited to have an representational advantage in Congress, but the North was balking at the prospect of being out-voted. A compromise was reached and Missouri was added as a slave state and Maine was added as a free state in order to maintain balance.
The compromise was geographical. Any new territory added to our map that was north of the 36 30' N line of latitude could not allow slavery. Obviously, then, any new state below the line could allow slavery. The images below illustrates this point. Examine the maps. In your comments discuss the following two points: Does anything strike you as odd in regards to the compromise and the location of Missouri? 2) What do you think of the Missouri Compromise? Was popular sovereignty a better idea?
In 1820, the territory of Missouri applied for statehood. If accepted, Missouri would be the 21st state in the Union (11 slave vs. 10 free). The South was excited to have an representational advantage in Congress, but the North was balking at the prospect of being out-voted. A compromise was reached and Missouri was added as a slave state and Maine was added as a free state in order to maintain balance.
The compromise was geographical. Any new territory added to our map that was north of the 36 30' N line of latitude could not allow slavery. Obviously, then, any new state below the line could allow slavery. The images below illustrates this point. Examine the maps. In your comments discuss the following two points: Does anything strike you as odd in regards to the compromise and the location of Missouri? 2) What do you think of the Missouri Compromise? Was popular sovereignty a better idea?
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
President's Day: Why Should We Care?
You know what is interesting? The original intent of the framers of the Constitution was for the Legislative Branch (a.k.a. Congress) to be the most powerful part of the Federal Government. Their reasoning was Congress is the only national body that is directly elected by the people. Remember: the Electoral College technically elects the president and the president nominates Supreme Court judges who are then approved or denied by a Senate Committee. The House of Representatives and the Senate are directly linked to the people of America.
As our country grew, however, the president assumed more and more power. The trouble is, the power being assumed by the office was not always a part of their Constitutional job description. When ambitious men like Jefferson and Jackson made decisions beyond the scope of the Constitution, the precedent was set that our president could basically do whatever he wanted as long as it was justifiable.
So as we take a day off school for President's Day, I ask myself: "Why do our presidents matter?" In your comments this week I would like to see two things: 1) Answer the question "Why do our presidents matter?". 2) Search the internet for funny/interesting/random presidential trivia and post your favorite. There will be three prizes awarded this week: First Post, Best Post and Best Presidential Fun Fact.
As our country grew, however, the president assumed more and more power. The trouble is, the power being assumed by the office was not always a part of their Constitutional job description. When ambitious men like Jefferson and Jackson made decisions beyond the scope of the Constitution, the precedent was set that our president could basically do whatever he wanted as long as it was justifiable.
So as we take a day off school for President's Day, I ask myself: "Why do our presidents matter?" In your comments this week I would like to see two things: 1) Answer the question "Why do our presidents matter?". 2) Search the internet for funny/interesting/random presidential trivia and post your favorite. There will be three prizes awarded this week: First Post, Best Post and Best Presidential Fun Fact.
Monday, February 13, 2012
War of 1812: The Second War for Independence
Inexplicably, James Madison asked Congress for a declaration of war against Britain in the early months of 1812. True, Americans were sick and tired of the mistreatment of our ships on the seas. Yes, the War Hawks in Congress were pushing for a conflict. Jefferson's Embargo Act (1807) had failed to punish England economically and the American economy suffered instead. But still...war?!?!?!?!?!?!
America was woefully unprepared for another conflict with England. Our Revolutionary Era generals were dead or dying. Our navy was pitifully small...especially compared to Britain's. We had basically no standing army since we had heavily relied on state militias in past conflicts. Also, we were in no financial shape to enter into a war. Besides all of that, it was incredibly foolish and arrogant to declare war against the strongest country in the world.
In spite of the evidence, Madison bowed to public pressure and sent America into another war with England. As discussed in class, America certainly did not win the war, but we did not really lose either. It also was not really a tie. As you can see, the outcome is complicated.
One of the early victories for the Americans was our frigate the Enterprise defeating the British warship the Boxer. Examine the political cartoon below. In your comments explain the imagery of this cartoon and what it was saying about this early victory for America. The text of the cartoon will be listed below the cartoon.
King George III stands at left, his nose bleeding and eye blackened, saying, "Stop...Brother Jonathan, or I shall fall with the loss of blood -- I thought to have been too heavy for you -- But I must acknowledge your superior skill -- Two blows to my one! -- And so well directed too! Mercy, mercy on me, how does this happen!!!" On the right, his opponent James Madison says, "Ha-Ah Johnny! you thought yourself a "Boxer" did you! -- I'll let you know we are an "Enterprize"ing Nation. and ready to meet you with equal force any day."
America was woefully unprepared for another conflict with England. Our Revolutionary Era generals were dead or dying. Our navy was pitifully small...especially compared to Britain's. We had basically no standing army since we had heavily relied on state militias in past conflicts. Also, we were in no financial shape to enter into a war. Besides all of that, it was incredibly foolish and arrogant to declare war against the strongest country in the world.
In spite of the evidence, Madison bowed to public pressure and sent America into another war with England. As discussed in class, America certainly did not win the war, but we did not really lose either. It also was not really a tie. As you can see, the outcome is complicated.
One of the early victories for the Americans was our frigate the Enterprise defeating the British warship the Boxer. Examine the political cartoon below. In your comments explain the imagery of this cartoon and what it was saying about this early victory for America. The text of the cartoon will be listed below the cartoon.
King George III stands at left, his nose bleeding and eye blackened, saying, "Stop...Brother Jonathan, or I shall fall with the loss of blood -- I thought to have been too heavy for you -- But I must acknowledge your superior skill -- Two blows to my one! -- And so well directed too! Mercy, mercy on me, how does this happen!!!" On the right, his opponent James Madison says, "Ha-Ah Johnny! you thought yourself a "Boxer" did you! -- I'll let you know we are an "Enterprize"ing Nation. and ready to meet you with equal force any day."
Monday, February 6, 2012
Corps of Discovery
Jefferson sent a secret message to Congress in January 1803 requesting $2,500 to explore America's western territory. The funny thing is: France, Spain and England were all privy to Jefferson's ambitions to purchase the Louisiana Territory. Why, then, did Jefferson feel the need for secrecy in this matter? Probably because purchasing land from a foreign country was not mentioned in the "Powers of the Executive Branch" portion of the Constitution. Also, the Federalist Congressmen were not exactly Jefferson's biggest fans.
Anyway...the Corps of Discovery is the official name for the Lewis & Clark Expedition. This excellent website contains intriguing insights from their trip. This week you need to spend at least thirty minutes (at one time or throughout the week) perusing this site. Explore the links, read the paragraphs and look at the pictures. Once you've spent at least thirty minutes looking it over, comment on what you thought was the most interesting. Be sure to include the # of words and how many minutes you spent on this site.
Anyway...the Corps of Discovery is the official name for the Lewis & Clark Expedition. This excellent website contains intriguing insights from their trip. This week you need to spend at least thirty minutes (at one time or throughout the week) perusing this site. Explore the links, read the paragraphs and look at the pictures. Once you've spent at least thirty minutes looking it over, comment on what you thought was the most interesting. Be sure to include the # of words and how many minutes you spent on this site.
Monday, January 30, 2012
Thomas Jefferson: A Widower & Father
Jefferson's wife died in 1782 after she gave birth to their sixth child. Jefferson, like many of the Founding Fathers, worked away from home for months and years at a time. In this primary source, Jefferson is giving instructions to his daughter Patsy about how to spend her time while he's away.
Read the letters from the link above and consider the notion of a single working dad. Not only a single working dad, but a single working dad who is Thomas Jefferson. Do you think he was justified in leaving his kids with other people while he attended the Continental Congress? Could he have brought some/all of his kids with him to Philadelphia and still been as successful? Would he still have written the Declaration of Independence?
In your comments, reflect on these questions and your initial reaction from the letters he wrote to Patsy.
Read the letters from the link above and consider the notion of a single working dad. Not only a single working dad, but a single working dad who is Thomas Jefferson. Do you think he was justified in leaving his kids with other people while he attended the Continental Congress? Could he have brought some/all of his kids with him to Philadelphia and still been as successful? Would he still have written the Declaration of Independence?
In your comments, reflect on these questions and your initial reaction from the letters he wrote to Patsy.
Monday, January 23, 2012
John Adams: The Anti-Washington
John Adams could never have replaced Washington in the hearts and minds of the American public. All he wanted was a little respect. Unfortunately for him, his overall disposition was anything but gracious and usually just rubbed people the wrong way. Jefferson said of Adams, "He is distrustful, obstinate, excessively vain, and takes no counsel from anyone." He was a man who knew he was right, all the time, and knew you were wrong, all the time. It is no wonder he was so maligned as president and was not be re-elected in 1800.
As historians have looked back on his presidency, however, Adams has begun to gain the respect he so doggedly pursued. The Alien & Sedition Acts will forever mar his legacy, but his work on avoiding war with France has become more notable. Adams was so proud of his neutrality stance that he wanted his epitaph to only mention that accomplishment. His suggestion: "Here lies John Adams, who took upon himself the responsibility of peace with France in the year 1800."
What do you think of Adams? Should his annoying personality be the measuring stick for which he is judged by history? In your post this week reflect on the personality of Adams as compared to his lifetime of accomplishments (Declaration signer, 1st VP/2nd P, Ambassador to Britain, Accomplished Lawyer etc.). Conclude your post by writing your own epitaph for Adams' life.
As historians have looked back on his presidency, however, Adams has begun to gain the respect he so doggedly pursued. The Alien & Sedition Acts will forever mar his legacy, but his work on avoiding war with France has become more notable. Adams was so proud of his neutrality stance that he wanted his epitaph to only mention that accomplishment. His suggestion: "Here lies John Adams, who took upon himself the responsibility of peace with France in the year 1800."
What do you think of Adams? Should his annoying personality be the measuring stick for which he is judged by history? In your post this week reflect on the personality of Adams as compared to his lifetime of accomplishments (Declaration signer, 1st VP/2nd P, Ambassador to Britain, Accomplished Lawyer etc.). Conclude your post by writing your own epitaph for Adams' life.
Monday, January 16, 2012
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: The Life of an Activist/The Death of a Martyr
This is our country's national monument to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This site was unveiled recently and today is the first time it has been open to the public on Dr. King's National Holiday. This man was, as you well know, one of the nation's leaders in equal civil rights for African Americans during the 1960s. He was assasinated in Memphis, TN in 1968 on the balcony of his hotel room. His nonviolent movement to gain equal political and civil liberties for his people cost him his life but improved the lives of millions. He was not perfect, but he was courageous.I wonder, though, what his life would have been like if he'd been born in the late 18th Century? What would his cause have been? Could he have been as successful? Certainly not every black person in America back then was a slave (of course most were). It is possible King could have been a free and educated black in the North. If so, would he have had the following he obtained in the mid 20th Century?
Shed A Little Light
Let us turn our thoughts today
To Martin Luther King
And recognize that there are ties between us
All men and women
Living on the earth
Ties of hope and love
Sister and brotherhood
That we are bound together
In our desire to see the world become
A place in which our children
Can grow free and strong
We are bound together
By the task that stands before us
And the road that lies ahead
We are bound and we are bound
There is a feeling like the clenching of a fist
There is a hunger in the center of the chest
There is a passage through the darkness and the mist
And though the body sleeps the heart will never rest
To Martin Luther King
And recognize that there are ties between us
All men and women
Living on the earth
Ties of hope and love
Sister and brotherhood
That we are bound together
In our desire to see the world become
A place in which our children
Can grow free and strong
We are bound together
By the task that stands before us
And the road that lies ahead
We are bound and we are bound
There is a feeling like the clenching of a fist
There is a hunger in the center of the chest
There is a passage through the darkness and the mist
And though the body sleeps the heart will never rest
(chorus)
Shed a little light, oh lord
So that we can see
Just a little light, oh lord
Wanna stand it on up
Stand it on up, oh lord
Wanna walk it on down
Shed a little light, oh lord
Can't get no light from the dollar bill
Don't give me no light from a tv screen
When I open my eyes
I wanna drink my fill
From the well on the hill
(do you know what I mean? )
- chorus -
There is a feeling like the clenching of a fist
There is a hunger in the center of the chest
There is a passage through the darkness and the mist
And though the body sleeps the heart will never rest
Oh, let us turn our thoughts today
To martin luther king
And recognize that there are ties between us
All men and women
Living on the earth
Ties of hope and love
Sister and brotherhood
Shed a little light, oh lord
So that we can see
Just a little light, oh lord
Wanna stand it on up
Stand it on up, oh lord
Wanna walk it on down
Shed a little light, oh lord
Can't get no light from the dollar bill
Don't give me no light from a tv screen
When I open my eyes
I wanna drink my fill
From the well on the hill
(do you know what I mean? )
- chorus -
There is a feeling like the clenching of a fist
There is a hunger in the center of the chest
There is a passage through the darkness and the mist
And though the body sleeps the heart will never rest
Oh, let us turn our thoughts today
To martin luther king
And recognize that there are ties between us
All men and women
Living on the earth
Ties of hope and love
Sister and brotherhood
-James Taylor
Reflect on the monument. Watch the video and read the lyrics. Does this man's life speak to you at all? Does what he and those around him accomplished mean anything to us today? How do you think our country would have been different if Dr. King had lived in the 18th Century instead of the 20th?
Monday, January 9, 2012
George Washington: America's First Sweetheart
It is as obvious today as it was in the late 18th Century that George Washington would be our first elected president under the Constitution. Any time our country needed a leader, he was called. He came out of retirement to chair the Constitutional Convention. He did the same when his country needed her first president. Washington was the only president ever to be unanimously elected.
Imagine having a unanimously elected president today! There would be no need for debates, caucuses, primaries, commercials or campaigns. Think back to 2008. Then Senator Obama was incredibly popular in many parts of the country...and his victory over McCain was nowhere near unanimous. It is almost too difficult to imagine ever having another man (or woman) collect every single electoral vote.
Examine these two images. One depicts the day Washington was inaugurated on March 4, 1789. The other is of his death. What do these two pictures tell you about the relationship Washington had with his country? Do you think we'll ever have another "Washington" in America?
Imagine having a unanimously elected president today! There would be no need for debates, caucuses, primaries, commercials or campaigns. Think back to 2008. Then Senator Obama was incredibly popular in many parts of the country...and his victory over McCain was nowhere near unanimous. It is almost too difficult to imagine ever having another man (or woman) collect every single electoral vote.
Examine these two images. One depicts the day Washington was inaugurated on March 4, 1789. The other is of his death. What do these two pictures tell you about the relationship Washington had with his country? Do you think we'll ever have another "Washington" in America?
Monday, January 2, 2012
Preamble To The Constitution: America's Opening Statement
In light of the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, some of America's most influential men and greatest minds gathered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in the summer of 1787 to hammer out a new form of government. The document that emerged from this convention has lasted over 200 years and is still the framework for our political structure today.
The opening paragraph of the Constitution is commonly referred to as the Preamble. These fifty-two words serve as America's promise to itself. I have posted the Preamble below. What does it mean to you? In light of the changes our country has experienced since the 18th Century, should the Preamble be rewritten to be more relevant today? Defend your answer.
_____________________________________________________________________
We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
_____________________________________________________________________
The opening paragraph of the Constitution is commonly referred to as the Preamble. These fifty-two words serve as America's promise to itself. I have posted the Preamble below. What does it mean to you? In light of the changes our country has experienced since the 18th Century, should the Preamble be rewritten to be more relevant today? Defend your answer.
_____________________________________________________________________
We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
_____________________________________________________________________
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