LAD #25: Dawes Act

LAD #25: Dawes Act

The Dawes Act is split into eleven sections and it was made to allow Indians to own individual plots of land and for them to have the the same property rights as Americans. In Section 1, it gives the President the power to allot land to Indians based on a series of guidelines, to improve agriculture and grazing on the reservations. Section 2 states that the Indians can chose the plots of land they want, and it goes over the rules when two pick the same plot or when someone entitled to land does not choose a plot. Section 3 determines the who the agents are that oversee these procedures. Section 4 states that Indians that do not live on a reservation can apply the same guidelines to unclaimed land. Section 5 goes over how the land will be held by the government for the Indian and his heir for twenty five years, at which point the patent can essentially be renewed. It also discusses the nuances of the government re-purchasing the land from the Indians and forms of equitable payment. Section 6 states that the Indians are subject to the laws of the states they reside in, but also that they will be given equal protection under the law as U.S. citizens. Section 7 says that the Secretary of the Interior can do as he sees fit to fairly distribute land where irrigation affects it. Section 8 specifies which territories are not included. Section 9 states that the treasury allotted one hundred thousand dollars to the purchase of this land if the Indians choose at any point to sell it. Section 10 maintains the government's ability to sequester this land for railroads, telegraphs, etc. Finally, Section 11 states that this act does not stop the relocation of a certain tribe.

This reminded me of the Trail of Tears, the horrible relocation of the civilized five Indian tribes of the Southeast. This act shows some improvement in the treatment of Indians, but still shows the interference of the American government in the lives of the Indians. 

LAD #24: Cross of Gold

LAD #24: Cross of Gold

Bryan opened his speech by stating that he fighting for a honorable cause, that of humanity, that his battle was not about people, but principles. He claimed that the issue being debated was perhaps the most hotly contested issue in American history, the issue over money in America. Bryan then went on to say that the government must also represent the pioneers at the heart of the country and not just the big businessmen on the East Coast. He stated that their fight was one in defense, not on the offensive. Next, Bryan evoked Jackson, stating how he and his faction of the Democratic Party were against large accumulation of wealth, and how he supported the income tax. He defended the tax by stating that men should be willing to pay their fair share for a government that protects them. Bryan then transitions again to the right of the government to coin money, stating that it should be the responsibility of the government, not the banks. At this point, Bryan's speech begins to gain more momentum as he starts talking about the issue over the gold standard or bimetallism. He describes the gold standard as extremely deadly for many Americans. He then describes how many gold standard supporters have fallen out of favor, like McKinley. He then says that history is not in favor of the gold standard because no country has ever officially accepted in. According to him, if it was so great, then it would already be in use and there would be no plan to make an international agreement to move to bimetallism. He then begins to wrap up his speech, stating that America relies on the masses, that without the farms, the cities would not survive. He describes a resurgence of independence and how America should pave the way for England, not the other way around. He states that he is willing to fight against the gold standard on whatever grounds. Finally, he finishes by evoking Christian imagery with the description of crucifixion on a gold cross.

This reminded me of Andrew Jackson's specie circular policy, in which the use of hard money was enforced, as opposed to the soft money being issued from wildcat banks. This is similar because Jackson was returning to a stable form of currency, like the people that supported the gold standard, who opposed Bryan.

LAD #23: Populist Party Platform

 

LAD #23: Populist Party Platform

The Populist Party Platform is broken into three main parts, the Preamble, the Platform, and the Expression of Sentiments. In the Preamble, there overall issues America and the government are discussed. The issues of corruption, poverty among the working class, bad working conditions, and the inability to unionize are all mentioned. The devaluation of silver is also mentioned, as is the desire to use silver more to make transactions easier due to a greater supply of currency. Finally, the Preamble concludes with the party's desire to attain equality for all and eliminate injustice and poverty. Next is the Platform. In this section, they state that they are pro-unions, want the money to go to those who earn it and make the products, and that government should own the railroads. They also mentioned some economic policies, like wanting the unlimited use of silver and gold for coins, more money in circulation, a graduated income tax, less money in government, and government banks for the people. They also state that they want telephone and telegraph companies controlled by the government. Finally, they say that they want the excess land given to the railroads to be used for settlers. The last section is the Expression of Sentiments, in which they state they plan to create a free, just, and secret ballot, to use to income tax to reduce other taxes, to make pensions for veterans, improve working conditions, restrict immigration, abolish mercenary groups like the Pinkertons, limit the term amount of the president to one, and more.

This reminded me of the Know Nothing Party because the Know Nothing Party also wanted to restrict immigration. Even though it was for a different reason, the Populist Party also wanted to decrease immigration into America.

LAD #22: McKinley's War Message

LAD #22: McKinley's War Message

McKinley prefaces his message to Congress by stating that it is his Constitutional duty to inform them on his opinions, in the case on the War in Cuba and Spanish-American relations. He then continues to say that the conflicts in Cuba have caused the U.S. to have to deal with establishing neutrality policies, and that some of the atrocities of war have actually offended the American people. He also mentions the economic consequences of the conflict for Americans that invested in Cuban trade, saying that this in fact has caused unrest in America. McKinley believes that no side can win without one or the other being completely destroyed/exhausted, and he says that the U.S. will not accept that outcome. Next, McKinley refers back to his statements in December. He states what options the U.S. has and that recognizing independence or belligerence would cause problems and that annexation is not even being considered. Then, McKinley says that a proclamation of neutrality would also accomplish nothing because it would recognize the insurgents as belligerents. He eventually comes to the conclusion that the right decision is to forcefully end the war as a third party. He states that the U.S. is in fact justified in doing so for four reasons. One, the close proximity to Cuba makes it America's responsibility. Two, the rights and lives of Americans in Cuba need protection. Three, the conflict is detrimental to American trade and commerce. Finally, the most important, four, the conflict is a "menace to our peace," and American ships are at risk of seizure close to home. Next, he discusses the USS Maine, which was destroyed by a submarine mine in Havana, killing 258 soldiers. McKinley says that that proves the need to intervene. According to him, the length of the conflict proves that it will not end by itself, so he asks Congress for the power to use the military to intervene. He adds at the end that the Spanish are willing to stop the fighting and make peace.

This reminded me of how the United States entered World War I after the sinking of the Lusitania because submarines had attacked a ship with Americans aboard. This is similar to the destruction of the USS Maine leading to the Spanish-American War.



LAD #21: Carnegie's Gospel of Wealth

http://i0.wp.com/listabuzz.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/andrew-carnegie.jpg

LAD #21: Carnegie's Gospel of Wealth

The document begins by discussing the way the wealth gap and the difference in standard of living between the rich and the poor had increased up to that point, how the upper class mansions were contrasted by the working class homes and apartments. Carnegie then says that it is a good thing, and that if the world were to go back to the way it was, with everyone living in "squalor," it would be very detrimental to society. Next, he questions what the proper way to distribute wealth is, clarifying his definition by excluding competence, wages needed to provide for oneself and one's family. Carnegie offers three options. The first, passing on wealth to family, he scorns, stating he does not agree with passing on wealth to a few based on the vanity of the dying owner. In fact, he says that it is bad for the people receiving the money because it puts an unnecessary responsibility on them. The second possibility is to give the money to the public when they die. This plan only makes it less likely that the wishes of the former owner are carried out. He then mentions how estates are deservedly taxed heavily after death because the former owner was clearly very selfish in life. According to Carnegie, the only good plan is for the rich to live modestly and then use their money for the good of the public through trust funds while they are alive. He argues that it is much more beneficial for large amounts of wealth to be in the hands of a few than smaller amounts in the hands of all.

 http://www.dailystormer.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/karl_marx.jpg

This reminded me of Karl Marx and Communism because Carnegie's ideas on the distribution of wealth contrast those of Marx to a great extent.

LAD #20: Emancipation Proclamation

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f9/Emancipation_Proclamation.jpg/594px-Emancipation_Proclamation.jpg

LAD #20: Emancipation Proclamation

The Emancipation Proclamation begins by stating that the slaves in the rebellious states are all free, as of January 1st, 1863, and that the U.S. Government will recognize and assist slaves in gaining that freedom. It also asserts that states in rebellion will be given representation in Congress, and at that action, will no longer be considered in rebellion. Lincoln then lists the Confederate states and writes that all other states will not be affected by the proclamation. He finishes by stating that all freed slaves should to commit violent acts, that they will be accepted in the military, and that the proclamation is legal by "military necessity."

 http://www.americanussr.com/images/japanese-camps.png

This reminds me of the Japanese Camps of WWII because FDR issued them a military necessity, even though they were unconstitutional. 

LAD #19: Lincoln's Second Inaugural

http://www.studenthandouts.com/01-Web-Pages/01-Picture-Pages/Abraham-Lincoln/Abraham-Lincoln-Second-Inaugural-Address-1865.jpg

LAD #19: Lincoln's Second Inaugural

Lincoln begins his Second Inaugural Address by stating that he does not find it important to give a long detailed speech on a plan for the future or present new information, given the state of the nation and the information the public knew about the war. Lincoln says that at his last speech, everyone wanted to avoid war, but the opposing sides both were willing to endure war to achieve their goals, and therefore, war came. Lincoln then begins to discuss the issue of slavery, which was the cause of the war. He mentions how the South wanted to extend slavery, while the North wanted to confine it. He also states that no one expected that the war would take as long as it had so far taken. Finally, Lincoln begins to discuss God, and how neither sides prayers have fully been answered. He quotes scripture, and essentially says that the war is punishment for the crime of slavery, and that though he prays for the end of the war, whatever happens is just punishment. He then concludes by asking his fellow countrymen to help the nation heal by finishing the job.

 Lincoln's request for help in finishing the job reminds me of his Gettysburg Address, where he asks the people to help make sure that the soldiers did not die in vain.
  

LAD #18: Dred Scott Decision

http://hinterlandgazette.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/dred-scott1.png

 

LAD #18: Dred Scott Decision

 The decision opens by discussing the reason for which Chief Justice Taney had to rewrite the majority decision. It then states that President Buchanan supported the power of the Supreme Court to make this decision on the issues of slavery with regards to new territory. In Taney's decision, he first states that African-Americans are not American citizens, and therefore, Dred Scott did not even have the right to sue in court. Taney then asserts that under the Fifth Amendment, all Americans have the right to life, liberty, and property, and that therefore, in would be unconstitutional if a citizen lost his property, simply because he brought it into a new region. For this reason, he declared the Missouri Compromise unconstitutional. He also declared that Scott was not free because he filed his lawsuit in a slave state. 

 

 

http://admin.bhbl.neric.org/~mmosall/ushistory/topics/Caning%20of%20Charles%20Sumner.jpg

 

This decision reminded me of the caning of Charles Sumner and the issues in Kansas because states could now choose slave or free. This was because the Missouri Compromise was declared unconstitutional in this decision.

LAD #17: Ain't I a Woman

http://a3.files.biography.com/image/upload/c_fit,cs_srgb,dpr_1.0,h_1200,q_80,w_1200/MTE1ODA0OTcxODA3OTY2NzMz.jpg

 

LAD #17: Ain't I a Woman

 

Truth's speech is about women's rights and women's equality. Using her experience as a slave, Truth proves that women are just as capable of men and that they don't need to "be helped into carriages." She discusses how she has done the same work as men and born the same punishment as men. She also attacks the claim that women are not men's equal because Jesus was a man. She states that Jesus came from God and a woman and that men played no role in that whatsoever. She also empowers women by stating that if Eve can "turn the world upside down," then women can "turn it back." Her speech is a very concise, yet powerful argument for women's equality.

http://starschanges.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/hillary-clinton-hair-celebrity-hair-changes-4-1.jpg

 

This speech reminded me of Hillary Clinton, who showed another thing that women could do in running for president and winning the Democratic nomination, something I'm sure Soujourner Truth would have been proud of.

LAD #16: Frederick Douglass Speech

http://www.thefamouspeople.com/profiles/images/frederick-douglass-4.jpg

LAD #16: Frederick Douglass Speech

Douglass' speech is about Independence Day and the American liberties that it celebrates from the perspective of African-Americans and African-American slaves. Douglass states that African-Americans do not share in the celebration of American Independence because the freedoms that were won for white people on that day are also not shared. Douglass declares that Independence Day actually only sheds light on the massive gap between white people and black people in America. The crimes against and the enslavement of African-Americans only seems worse on Independence Day, according to Douglass. He even goes as far as to state that it is sinful to celebrate American Independence because it means forgetting the suffering of so many African-American slaves. Douglass makes clear that by continuing slavery, America is trampling on the ideals it holds dear. Douglass then proves that African-Americans are "equal in manhood," as they are capable of all that white men are. Next, Douglass lists some of the crimes against slaves and states that he should not have to argue that this is wrong, implying his belief that it is obvious that the injustices done to African-Americans are wrong. Douglass concludes by saying that, to a slave, Independence Day only shows the hypocrisy of Americans and that there is no other country that is even close to as vile and disgusting as America.

 http://investorplace.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Martin-Luther-King-Jr.jpg

This speech reminded me of Martin Luther King Jr. because MLK continued the fight of Frederick Douglass, a fight to gain equality for African-Americans.

 

LAD #15: Gettysburg Address

https://gettysburg150concerts.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/gettysburg-address2.jpg

LAD #15: Gettysburg Address

The Gettysburg Address is in essence an eulogy for the men who died at the Battle of Gettysburg. In the speech, Lincoln talked about the cause of the men who fought, and how they fought for a country in which "all men are created equal." He then continued to say that nothing that they do to memorialize the battle, meaning those there to honor the dead, will compare to the soldiers actions. Lincoln then finished the speech powerfully, stating that it is their job to do all they can to make sure that those brave soldiers did not die in vain. According to Lincoln, it was imperative that they finish the job.

http://www.civilwar.org/photos/galleries/appomattox-court-house/images/last-salute.jpg

 

This reminded me of the surrender at Appomattox because this was where the Union's victory was finalized, representing the completion of the job and ensuring that the dead did not die in vain.

 

LAD #14: Lincoln's First Inaugural Address

https://www.gilderlehrman.org/sites/default/files/content-images/01264p1.jpg

LAD #14: Lincoln's First Inaugural Address

Lincoln did not mince words in his First Inaugural Address and got straight to the point. He opened by addressing the fears the southern states have about him becoming president. He attempted to quell their fears by quoting himself saying that he did not intend to abolish slavery in the southern states. Lincoln wanted to show the southerners that he was not going to infringe on their rights and that he was going to treat them equally. After this, Lincoln discussed the issue of runaway slaves in the North. Lincoln stated that Americans and Congress should abide by the laws of the Constitution, which makes clear that slaves must be returned and freemen must remain freemen. Lincoln then discussed the unity of America. He stated that if followed, the Constitution would keep the United States united forever, unless the government allows individual parts of the nation to destroy the unity. Therefore, Lincoln made clear that it was his responsibility to do what is necessary to preserve the nation's unity. Lincoln said that he does not want to have to use force and that he will need to collect taxes, but will not try to in rebellious areas of the country. After this, he almost makes a final plea to the South to reconsider. It is emphasized that no constitutional rights were ever violated. Lincoln states that the two regions should not separate because they will always have to deal with each other, and these interactions would be even harder as "aliens." He then continued that it would be much better for the South to attempt an amendment to the Constitution and that patience is all the South needed because what was meant to happen would in the end. Lincoln concludes in peace, saying that he will not do anything to force the issue of civil war and that he believes it is better for all Americans to remain comrades not enemies. He left the issue in the hands of the people.

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f0/Washington%27s_Farewell_Address.jpg

This reminded me of Washington's Farewell Address because Washington makes clear in this speech that he believes the different regions of the U.S. must remain friendly and united, a belief the Lincoln shares.

 

LAD #13: John Calhoun's Speech

http://northalc.wikispaces.com/file/view/imageR3V.JPG/70430753/540x430/imageR3V.JPG

LAD #13: John Calhoun's Speech

John Calhoun's Speech was about the disunity the issue of slavery in America caused, how it developed, and how the union could be preserved. Calhoun then states that the disunity was a result of the frustration of the southern states, but that it was not incited by southern politicians, but rather that the politicians tried to keep the people of the south at bay, as they were the ones that were the most upset. He then questions why the people of the South did not think they could remain a part of the U.S. He says it was a result of both the anti-slavery actions of the North and the power imbalance between the two regions that favored the North. He says the real problem was the laws passed by the government to end the balance of power. These include territorial legislation that added territory to the North and not the South, and the use of southern tax money for the North. Calhoun asserts that the North has gotten an unfair amount of territory. He also says that the South had been unfairly taxed and that the money had gone to the North, which had increased the number of people moving to the North, increasing their population. He continues to state that the South could do nothing because the North controlled all parts of government as a result of their increased territory and population. Calhoun also addresses that the North considered slavery to be a sin and therefore, tried to destroy it, while the South tried to save it. In order to save the Union, Calhoun says that the North would need to fix the imbalance of power, satisfying the South. He says that they should not try to get the South to sacrifice anything because they had already sacrificed a lot. He then tells the North that they have the power to do their duty and save the Union, but that only they can do it. He concludes by stating that if they do nothing, the South will be forced to secede.

 http://www.skylinenation.ca/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Civil_War-6.jpg

This document foreshadows the Civil War, in which the South seceded. Calhoun would argue that they were forced to do so because the North did nothing to fix the power imbalance between the regions.

LAD #12: Polk's War Message

http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/51/d5/e6/51d5e68b232bf07d56f35d6f31dc2969.jpg

LAD #12: Polk's War Message

 Polk begins his message to Congress by discussing the attempts of the the U.S. Government to begin diplomatic relations with the Mexican Government. Polk states that the Mexican Government was asked to receive an American envoy to discuss the issues between the nations and the territorial disputes. However, the Mexican's changed their minds and five days later that government changed hands. The new government also refused to talk with the American envoy. According to Polk, the American's did everything in their power to satisfy the diplomatic needs of the Mexican's and that it was very disrespectful of the Mexican's to break their agreement. Polk also states that at this point Texas had decided to become part of the Union and that this had been approved by Congress. He then asserts that it is the government's responsibility to now protect the Texans. They were at this point threatened by Mexican invasion for annexing to the United States. Troops were then positioned in Texas and told not to engage with the Mexicans unless attacked, and the Mexicans attacked on April 24th. Polk then states that the United States did all it could to avoid war, but now it is the government's responsibility to do what is best for its people.

  http://core.ecu.edu/hist/zipfk/xyzaffair.jpg

This document reminded me of the XYZ Affair because that was another scenario in which American diplomats were refused by a foreign country.

LAD #11: Seneca Falls Declaration

https://farm7.staticflickr.com/6054/6231650277_cd3872fc4d_z.jpg

LAD #11: Seneca Falls Declaration

The Seneca Falls Declaration was written by women seeking equality, and they modeled the document on the Declaration of Independence which also asserted a people's rights and responsibilities regarding their rights. The Declaration stated that women have certain unalienable rights and that it is their duty to make sure that the government protects and upholds those rights. It then goes on to list some of the grievances of the government against women. Some of these grievances include not being given the right to vote and the lack of a voice in government. It also refers to the inequality of rights between men and women, and the requirement that wives be obedient to their husbands to the point that they are essentially property. They also write about the women's loss of rights to property when they marry and the lack of jobs or education available to women. The women then continue to propose solution to the issues. These include the assertion that women are men's equal and that any laws that say otherwise should be fixed. It states that women should not stand by idly and that they should instead do something about it. It states that women should be able to vote and participate in government, that they should have equal career and religious opportunities, and that men should be held to the same standards as women. 

  http://theblemish.com/images/2016/11/susan-b-anthony-grave.jpg

This document reminded me of the huge number of people who went to the Susan B. Anthony's grave on Election Day because Hillary could have been the first female president, something that Susan B. Anthony fought to give women the right to do.

LAD #10: Monroe Doctrine

http://store.ushistory.org/products/product-images/monroe-doc.jpg

 

 

LAD #10: Monroe Doctrine

 

1.  What did the issuing of the Monroe Doctrine express from an American perspective post War of 1812?

 

The issuing of the Monroe Doctrine expressed that the American government would not tolerate any other foreign powers interfering or oppressing them. In asserted that America would not allow any foreign country to endanger their security and independence, and that included colonizing any territory on the North American continent.

 

2.  What was Secretary of State Adams' hope when he wrote the Monroe Doctrine?

 

Adams most likely hoped that by writing the Monroe Doctrine, that he would make clear to all other nations that the United States would not allow anyone to infringe on their safety and liberty. He also hoped to make clear that the United States would at no point, unless that ideals of the government were to change, infringe on the independence or freedom of any other independent nation. Overall, Adams wanted to emphasize that America would continue their policy of neutrality in regard to foreign conflicts, hoping to maintain peace, however, they would not stand by if foreign countries did anything that could affect America.

 

3.  What is the key phrase in the entire document that you need to remember as the cornerstone or American Foreign Policy?

 

The phase and ideal that was repeated throughout the document was that of maintaining neutrality with regard to foreign issues that did not directly involve or threaten the United States. This policy was first put in place by George Washington, and the Monroe Doctrine confirmed that America planned to continue to abide by it.

 

http://www.varsitytutors.com/images/earlyamerica/article.jpg

 

The Monroe Doctrine reminded me of Washington's Proclamation of Neutrality because it states that the government will continue this policy, but it adds on to it, stating that the United States will not let other countries infringe on America's rights.

LAD #9: Jefferson's First Inaugural

 http://evresourcesite.wikispaces.com/file/view/Jefferson_First_Inaug_2.jpg/241967218/Jefferson_First_Inaug_2.jpg

 

LAD #9: Jefferson's First Inaugural

 

Thomas Jefferson touches on multiple points in his first inaugural address. To begin, Jefferson thanks the citizens who supported him and acknowledges the responsibility the office of the president. He also reaches out to the other politicians in government, asking them for guidance throughout his term in office. He then goes on the acknowledge the complications of the election that put him in office, emphasizing the importance of sustained unity. Though he recognizes that their are different opinions among government officials, and that the the majority will make most decisions as it sees fit, he also states that the government must not forget the rights of the minority. He states that even though people have different opinions, their patriotic values unite them as one. Jefferson talks about the American value of liberty, and makes clear that the responsibility of government is to maintain that virtue for the people, leaving most of the power to them. He then lists his beliefs on the important issues he will base his presidency on, mentioning that it is important to uphold what the revolutionaries fought for. He finishes by asking for the continued support of the people, requesting that they are understanding of his mistakes and that they have faith in him throughout his term.

 

 

  http://teachingamericanhistory.org/wp-content/themes/tah-main/images/imported/ratification/federalist10.jpg

 

This speech reminded me of Federalist #10, which discusses the importance of unity and the threat of factions in the form of political parties. Though Jefferson is a member of a party himself, he also stresses the importance of unity and government for all, not just the majority.

Columbus Blog

http://cdn.history.com/sites/2/2014/02/columbus-day-H.jpeg

 

Columbus Blog

 Christopher Columbus should not be considered a celebrated hero, deserving of a holiday in his name, but instead should be considered a villain for the atrocities he committed in the Americas. When Columbus first arrived in America, one of his first thoughts was that the Arawak Indians would make great slaves, which is telling of his character. The Arawaks were nothing but kind to Columbus and his men, but Columbus viewed them as his inferior. Columbus saw the generous nature of the natives and took advantage of it, thinking only of himself. When Columbus realized that the Indians would not survive as slaves in Spain, he decided to use them to find gold. Indians who failed to do so, were sentenced to death by having their hands cut off and then bleeding to death. This brutal form of punishment is absolutely disgusting, and it is only one of the crimes Columbus committed against the natives. He hunted down Indians that tried to escape and influenced the decision of many Arawak Indians to commit suicide. Columbus and his men degraded the Indians as well, forcing the Indians to carry them like mules. The Spanish tortured and killed the Indians for sport under Columbus, testing their weapons on them and beheading them for fun. The Indians were forced to do exhaustive labor, which split many families, killing many Indians in the process. The cruelty of Columbus eventually led to the genocide of the Arawak people. I find the actions of Christopher Columbus to be revolting and I believe he should be considered one of the world's worst villains, not one of the its greatest heroes.

http://thepapersofandrewjackson.utk.edu/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Jackson-Portrait.jpg

 

Columbus' treatment of the Arawak Indians reminded me of Andrew Jackson's decision to force the Cherokee Indians the march on the Trail of Tears. Many Indians died on this trip.

 

 

LAD #7: Washington's Farewell Address

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f0/Washington%27s_Farewell_Address.jpg

LAD #7: Washington's Farewell Address

Washington's Farewell Address can be broken into two main sections. In the first, Washington explains his reasoning for retiring from the Presidency. He explains that he believes that it is the right time for him to step down, unlike after his first term, which ended at a time in which consistency was needed. He also states that he believes he is not the most qualified man for the job. The final thing he does in this section is thank the American people for their support of him, and state that without them, he would not have been able to accomplish the things he did. In the second part of his speech, Washington gives the people of America some advice for the future. He makes two mains points. The first is that America must remain united. He mentions how the government is the cornerstone of the nation, and how without it liberty would cease to exist in America. He also talks about how the economy of the United States is dependent on all sections of the country. Washington warns against faction in America, both geographically and politically, and states that faction could decrease unity in the U.S. without which they are weaker in foreign affairs. He also asks the citizens to always support the Constitution, changing it when necessary, and to make sure that the power of government is always split between the three branches. The second main point that Washington stresses is maintaining a policy of neutrality abroad. He recommends that America keeps foreign relations to trade. He also recommends that the U.S. refrain from having allies, or treating some nations better than others. He warns the people of getting entangled in permanent alliances, and states that temporary alliances should be made only when absolutely necessary. Finally, Washington finishes his address by stating that he is excited to take his place as a normal citizen of the United States.

 https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/18/Franklin_D._Roosevelt_-_NARA_-_196715.jpg

Washington's Farewell Address reminded me of Franklin Delano Roosevelt because FDR was the first and only president to serve for more than two terms.

LAD #6: Washington's Proclamation of Neutrality

http://s3.amazonaws.com/media.wbur.org/wordpress/1/files/2013/01/0101_emancipation-620x354.jpg

LAD #6: Washington's Proclamation of Neutrality

 Washington's Proclamation of Neutrality stated that the United States would not get involved in the war between France and many of the other European powers in 1796. He states that America would not take sides in the conflict, lending zero support to either army. He also writes that any American who does take sides and lend support to either party will be punished by the government and that they will no longer receive the protection of the United States.

 https://userscontent2.emaze.com/images/a71f90f9-c570-4455-a495-3de4aa96ea89/cd1c1939-e694-4d1e-b4c8-58168eedf4c9.jpg

The Proclamation of Neutrality reminded me of how the United States attempted to stay neutral in WWI. 

LAD #5: The Federalist #10

http://teachingamericanhistory.org/wp-content/themes/tah-main/images/imported/ratification/federalist10.jpg

 

LAD #5: The Federalist #10

1. Why are factions so difficult to eliminate?

Factions are so difficult to eliminate for two main reasons because the two ways to do so are impractical or impossible. The first way to eliminate factions is to eliminate liberty from a society, and in America, this is not practical given this nation was founded on liberty and Americans even fought a war to earn it. Though it would eliminate factions, America would lose its identity without liberty. The second way to eliminate factions is to make every citizen have the same ideas, opinions, and beliefs. This is impossible because it is human nature to have different opinions, especially in America. Because Americans can own property and because some Americans own more than others, Americans often want different legislation passed based on what will benefit their own lives. Therefore, it would be impossible to convince every American to want the same things. Also, Americans all come from different backgrounds, religiously and culturally, which influence their opinions.

2. If factions cannot be removed then how can they be controlled?

Factions can be controlled through government in the form of a republic. Because there is often a majority and a minority, democracy would not benefit every citizen, due to the fact that the majority would always govern in favor of themselves, not for the benefit of the entire country. In a republic, representatives are elected that are more likely to pass legislation that is best for the entire country, not just for one faction. Also, there must be national and state legislatures so that local issues and overarching issues can both be addressed, which helps to reduce the bias there would be if there was just one legislature. By doing this, the entire country and the individual states both are more likely to benefit.

http://public.media.smithsonianmag.com/legacy_blog/donkey-and-elephant.jpg

 

This document reminded me of the Democratic and Republican parties that we have today. These parties are factions that are controlled by the American system of government.

Republican Motherhood Blog

Republican Motherhood Blog

1. What role did the Revolutionary War play in the transformation of housewifery to Republican Motherhood?

The Revolutionary War had a huge role in the transformation of the woman's job to Republican Motherhood. Without the American Revolution, this transformation may not have occured. According the Document C, which war written during the war, the woman's job added the responsibility of educating their children about the war and the liberties the revolutionaries fought for. It states that the success of the Revolution, and the future of America was dependent on women educating and developing good citizens.

2. What were the consequences of Republican Motherhood on women?

The consequences of the Republican Motherhood on women was that they were now restricted to the home even more so, due to their added responsibiltiy as the teacher of liberty to the young. According to Document A, women are restricted to their "appropriate and appointed sphere of action." It states that women must work in the home to pass on the beliefs and values of America to her children.

3. What is the significance of the ideology of Republican Motherhood as a stage in the process of women's socialization?

The ideology of the Republican Motherhood increased the need for women to be educated, according to Document B. This is significant, because before this, women's education was not considered to be very important. Also, it changed society's view of women. Document D suggests that women now had more more power in society and that they held to fate of America in their hands. This is important, because before this, women were considered only good for maintaining the house and caring for the children.

"Mary Gibson Tilghman and her Sons" by Charles Wilson Peale (1789)

 

1. Describe the Setting.

 

The setting of this portrait appears to be in a living room, most likely within Mrs. Tilghman's home. She and her two suns are sitting on a sofa. One son is sitting on her lap, the other beside her.

2. Who serves at the center of the portrait and why? How does the woman look? How is she "republican" rather than aristocratic?

Mrs.Tilgham is seated at the center of the portrait. She seems like a strong figure and good role model, from the portrait. She appears to be a caring mother. She seems republican, as opposed to aristocratic for a few reasons. For example, she does not appear to be dressed in lavish clothing and is not wearing expensive jewelry, something you might expect from an aristocratic woman. She also is portrayed with her sons, whereas, aristocratic women might delegate the care of their children to some form of nanny.

3. What values do her sons exhibit?

Her sons exhibit various values. One, is curiosity, shown by the way that the one son is reaching for the other. They also appear to be gentle, demonstrated by the way that the son is handling the bird. They seem to be very well mannered, as well, represented by the son in blue's attentiveness while to portrait was taken.

4. Is there a significance to the position of Mrs. Tilgham's arm?

The position of Mrs. Tilgham's arm, holding her son, shows that she cares about her children, but also that she is constantly educating them. She is teaching her son manners in that she is not allowing him to reach his brother, which he is trying to do.

The way in which Republican Motherhood increased the importance of women reminded me of Susan B. Anthony, who increased the rights of women during the Women's Suffrage Movement.

 

LAD #4: Rethinking the Revolution

 http://www.aljazeera.com/mritems/Images/2011/3/7/20113714026398876_20.jpg

 

LAD #4: Rethinking the Revolution

 

1. Some of the Founding Fathers made effort to change the way that they were remembered, including George Washington. Washington even edited letters that he had written to improve the grammar. The War of Independence, like Washington, is not remembered exactly as it was.

 

2. One of the reasons that the War is not remembered in the exact way that it should is because the War was not discussed as much as the political actions during the Revolution were, as time passed after the war. This combined with the brutality of the Civil War has made many people see the War of Independence as less gruesome than it was in reality.

 

3. During the War of Independence, the images that were captured did not display what the battles looked like, unlike the pictures of the Civil War. These less gruesome images also contribute to why the brutality of the War of Independence is not common knowledge. Writing during the War of Independence was also less focused on the battles, and more focused on the rebellion.

 

4. Descriptions of the War of Independence by veterans who fought in it describe horrifying scenes of destruction. Though the casualties were less than the Civil War, the carnage was just as horrible. The bloodshed was immense.

5. The casualties of the War of Independence included many civilians casualties. Both loyalists and patriots were killed in their homes, many of them innocent. Also, many civilians who were not fighting as part of an army or militia, killed other civilians who took the opposite side.

http://www.goddidntchoosesides.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Jennie-Wade.jpg 

 

This is an picture of Jennie Wade, the only civilian to be killed during the Battle of Gettysburg. I was reminded of her when I was reading about the many civilian casualties during the War of Independence.

 

LAD #3: The Declaration of Independence

 

http://www.theblaze.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/20071018_declaration1.jpg

LAD #3: The Declaration of Independence

 The Declaration of Independence can be split into three main parts, the first being the democratic principles that the colonists based the foundation of their new country on. One of these, is arguably the most famous line of the document, "that all men are created equal." The writers follow this up by saying that government is created by the people to ensure that the rights to "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" are protected. Finally, the Declaration states that the people can overthrow and replace a government if it fails to do its duty to the people, or worse, does serious wrong by them.

In the second part of the Declaration, the writers clearly describe the wrongdoings of the British government, that have inspired the colonists to revolt. Some of these include, King George manipulating colonial legislatures to get what he wants, as well as sometimes even getting rid of them all together. He also prevented colonial expansion west, forced judges to bend to his will, and quartered British soldiers, who were above the law, in the colonists' homes. Lastly, the King taxed the colonists without representation, prevented the colonists from trading with other countries, and even destroyed American property.

The final part of the Declaration states, that the way Great Britain ignored the requests of the colonists, forced them to declare themselves "free and independent states." In this section, the writers completely sever any connection with the British. They also officially state their abilities as an independent nation, like the ability to declare war.

 http://spookhandy.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/kingphoto.jpg

This image of the Martin Luther King Jr. during the Civil Rights Movement reminds me of the Declaration of Independence because during this time people like MLK were fighting for many of the same rights that the writers of the Declaration of Independence were fighting for, like the rights to "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness."

LAD #2: Zenger Trial

 https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a1/29-THE_FAMOUS_ZENGER_TRIAL.jpg

 

LAD #2: Zenger Trial

 

1. Who was John Peter Zenger?

 

 John Peter Zenger was a publisher in New York City during the 1730s. During that time he published a controversial newspaper called the New York Weekly Journal, which criticized the governor of the time, William Cosby. Zenger was arrested and charged for seditious libel for the publication of this paper.

2. What was the controversy over his charges? Talk about Hamilton's defense.

 

The controversy over Zenger's charges was whether or not the criticisms published in the paper were truthful. Andrew Hamilton, Zenger's lawyer, made the case to the jury that Zenger could not be found guilty of libel if his publications were not false. He also made the plea to the jury that the Zenger's charges were an attack on the freedoms of every British subject.

 

3. What influence did this case have on American governmental tradition?

 

This case, and Zenger's victory, changed the popular view on the topic of freedom of the press, and made many people come to view this as a right. This case foreshadowed and influenced the future, especially with the inclusion of this freedom in the American Bill of Rights.

 

4. What is the lasting significance of his trial? Explain.

 

The lasting significance of this trial is that people in the United States can openly publish criticism of things they disagree with without having to fear that they will be faced with criminal charges for doing so. There are many examples of people that have published criticisms of government policies and personnel recently, and it actually is pretty common. Many people even make their living as political analysts and commentators, a job which requires them to discuss, and depending on their opinions, criticize government officials.

 

 

 

 http://www.theimaginativeconservative.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/bill_of_rights.jpg

The US Bill of Rights is something I associate with the Zenger Trial because the Bill of Rights includes the right to Freedom of the Press in the First Ammendment.