LAD #21: Carnegie's Gospel of Wealth

     Andrew Carnegie was an extremely wealthy business man due to his involvement in the steel industry, supplying the increasingly popular railroads.  He came up with the "Gospel of Wealth," which basically describes how a capitalistic society is beneficial for big business.  Although referred to as a robber baron by some, Carnegie suggests that the gap between the rich and the poor as a result of the emergence of big business is better than if everyone shared the same wealth.  He explains that these so called "robber barons" actually better the economy through their donation to various social projects.  He then discusses primogeniture, the European practice which allows cash flow but also guarantees that wealth be handed down to the first born son, crushing his ambition or desire to succeed.  Carnegie then places emphasis on the donation of excess wealth to fund programs which support the poor and other aspects of society.  Carnegie himself followed these guidelines as he is know remembered as a huge Philanthropist who funded many libraries throughout the nation as well as the University, Carnegie
Mellon.

LAD #20: The Emancipation Proclamation

  In this rather groundbreaking historical document, Abraham Lincoln declares that on January 1, 1863 all slaves in the Southern states rebelling against the Union are free.  This title will be completely respected and understood by all military and naval personnel.  Secondly, he states that all slaves in Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana,  Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia are thus liberated from their servitude obligations.  This declaration will hold true if they choose to venture North.

LAD #19: Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address

     Lincoln begins by saying that he has much less to say than was said four years ago.  He then mentions that at the time of his first inaugural address, the south was making plans to secede from the union, thus giving the nation no chance of survival.  Their secession led to the civil war which the Union was dragged into in hopes of restoring the nation that had existed since even before the creation of the constitution. Later on, he states that slaves constitute 1/8 of the population, the majority of that portion residing in the south.  They express interest in freedom, but for the moment, the Union seeks only to contain them. Lincoln claims that no party predicted that the war would be as devastating and hard-fought as it was.  Religion is then incorporated into this famed speech as Lincoln states that although both sides wish for the war to end, that blessing is something that relies on God's will.  He ends by saying that the nation must finish the work that it has begun and "create a lasting peace."

LAD #18: Dred Scott Decision

     After reviewing the case Chief Justice, Roger Taney, ruled in favor of Stanford.  He did so because since Scott was a slave, fathered by parents who were emmigrated into the United States, he was not technically a citizen and therefore he was not granted the same rights protected by the constitution.  The privledge of suing in court is one of the many rights that the constitution grants to the citizens of the United States.  Since Scott was not a citizen, he was not given these rights crucial to the outcome of his case.  This case also brought to question the constitutionality of the Missouri Compromise.  The constitution did not distinguish between slaves and other forms of property.  Taney then stated that since the Missouri compromise denied citizends of their right to hold property--slaves--that it was unconstitutional.  Futhermore, Scott hoped that Taney could rule Scott as free because of his stay in Illinoise which is a free state.  However, the case was brought forth in Missouri, a slave state, therefore Scott was still a slave.  Taney dismissed the case and sent it back to lower courts who officially ruled Scott as a slave.

LAD #17: Ain't I a Woman?

In this speech, Sojourner Truth compares herself to a white woman, and their different positions in society.  White women treated with kindness and curtosey.  On the other hand, society fails to treat Truth in this same manner.  Like any woman, Truth has given birth.  Yet, still she does not qualify to be worth of such womanhood.  She goes on to denounce man for believing that women cannot have the same rights as men since god Christ is a male.  Truth argues that sure Christ is a male, but he was brought into this world by a woman!  Finally she says " If the first woman God ever made was strong enough to turn the world upside down all alone, these women together ought to be able to turn it back , and get it right side up again!"

LAD #16: 5th of July Speech

In the 5th of July Speech, Frederick Douglass revealed resentment towards the utilization of slavery in the United States.  He claims that the White Americans are blessed with the right to rejoice on this sacred day of independence.  However, the Blacks cannot celebrate in the same manner.  He reminds Americans that there are still captives in this supposedly free and independent society-the slaves.  He then states that to ignore their cries would be treasonous and ungodly.  Douglass goes on to denounce slavery as the greatest sin in America.  There is no need for these slaves who share many of the same dignified occupations as their white oppresser and puts in just as much effort into the bettering of society that these slaves are not considered men.  It is therefore moraly corrupt to treat these men in such a poor manner, refusing to give them wages and liberties, beating them, and denying them a voice in goverment.  He states that to the American slave, the 4th of July is a reminder of the cruelty that victimizes him.  Douglass concludes by saying that there is no nation in all of the world who implements such a cruel, corrupt, and unjust system as the united states.

LAD #15: The Gettysburg Address

In this famous speech, Lincoln honors the soldiers of the civil war, who sacrificed their own lives so that the union could live.  Lincoln utters one of his most famous lines "The world will little note nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here"  He dedicates the field as a resting place for those who so valiantly fought for their country.  He states that these men should not die in vein and that their efforts should serve as beneficial to the country.

LAD #14: Lincoln's First Inaugural Address

Lincoln begins by assuring the south that there is no reason for apprehension and that the liberties of the southern states are not in danger with his coming of office.  He then states that he has no intentions of abolishing slavery because such would be a violation of states rights.  The principals of the constitution will continued to be used to make government decisions during the Lincoln administration.  He goes on to mention that he knows he will face perils in the next four years due to the tension that threatens the union.  Acts of violence by any state will be regarded as revolutionary and no state can lawfully get out of the union.  Lincoln states that he will use his power "to hold, occupy, and possess the property and places belonging to the Government and to collect the duties and imposts."  But other than that, he will not use force against the people. Throughout the address, Lincoln stresses the importance of unity and how it has held the nation together since the creation of the constitution.  The states, he says, must act to benefit one another.  Finally, he ends by saying "We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies."

LAD #13: John Calhoun's Speech

Calhoun Addressed the Senate in order to discuss an issue that had been threatening the well-being of the Union--slavery.  The 3/5 clause of the constitution originally seemed as a fair way of balancing the power between the North and South.  However, the North later gained more representation, giving them the power to take control of the government.  Calhoun believed that if a particular faction were to gain complete control, they would just need to have the majority of states and the majority of population present in the Senate.   At this time, the Union was about to gain 5 new northern states.  On the other hand, the south was was not gaining any new states, thus shifting the balance to favor the north.  Furthermore, Calhoun states that the tariffs used to collect revenue are also showing favoritism to the north, and strengthening the upper elite.  As a result, the wealthy northerners gained power at the expense of the southern farmers.  Also, the prosperous North attracted a larger amount of immigrants, also making the balance of power lean towards the North.  Perhaps the most important issue, slavery, was crippling the Union.  The North argued that it was an unmoral act whereas the southerners represented by Calhoun stated that it was a necessary aspect of their economy and if removed, would devastate the South.  Calhoun claims that the only way to make the balance of power between the North and South even again is if the North agrees to lend some power back to the South by giving the them rights to represent newly acquired territory and return fugitive slaves.  If this was accomplished, the threat of secession would be drastically reduced.

LAD #12: Polk's War Message

     Polk beings by stating that the tension between the United States and Mexico gavehim the right to bring this issue to congress.  He then claimed that the United States government attempted resolve the issues with their neighboring country by sending an American envoy, John Siddle. John Siddle sought to diplomatically resolve the border disputes and hostilities committed upon American citizens in the southern portion of the country and in Texas by speaking to the head of the Mexican government, General Herrera.  The Mexican government, under revolt, chose to not speak with Siddle and therefore, failed to resolve the existing tensions between the two nations.  Mexico then displayed utter violence toward American soldiers stationed between the Nuces and the Del Norte  in Texas. This region had become part of the Union when Texas was annexed in 1836.  The confrontation with Mexicans in this region resulted in the casualties of 16 United States troops.  President Polk then decided that this gave the United States a good reason to engage in war with Mexico, especially considering the history of Mexican hostility towards American citizens.

LAD #11: The Seneca Falls Declaration

     Written by women's rights activists, the Seneca Falls Declaration alters the preamble to the Declaration of independence by stating that "all men and women are created equal."  It calls for a change in the male-dominated world, by granting more rights to the deserving women of the country.  "Such has been the patient sufferance of the women under this government, and such is now the necessity which constrains them to demand the equal station to which they are entitled."
     The declaration then states all of the limitations and abuses that man has placed upon woman.  This includes the withholding of rights, discrimination if not married, and the allowing of only subordinate positions in various aspects of society.
     Finally, the document states numerous resolutions to this women's rights crisis.  All of the resolutions demand equality and equal participation in society affairs, thus reversing the male-favoring society that has become a prominent feature of the United States.  Clearly, the Seneca Falls Declaration was bold move on the behalf of American women and a huge stepping stone towards achieving equality of the genders.

LAD #10: The Monroe Doctrine

In the Monroe Doctrine, President Monroe declares that the American continents are free and independent of any chance to colonize.  He says this in accordance to the agreements made with Russia and Britain.  He then touches on the topic of neutrality regarding the start of civil war in Spain.  Although he sympathizes with the rebels in their rightful desire to gain independence, he states that the United States must remain neutral throughout the conflict.  He shows no interest in allowing the United states to interfere with the "de facto" government.  By remaining neutral, the United States will avoid potentially threatening entangling alliances with European powers.  Monroe then states that the policies of the western hemisphere greatly differ from the policies of the eastern hemisphere.  America prepares a defense only when the rights of the citizens on their side of the Atlantic Ocean are being violated.  Finally, Monroe says that any involvement with the European system of alignment will cause nothing but conflict and unrest.  Therefore, neutrality is the only solution.

LAD #9: Jefferson's Inaugural Address

Jefferson begins by thanking his fellow citizens for electing him.  He goes on to state that America is a rapidly growing country with a lot of potential.  Jefferson then claims that he will refer to the beloved constitution to solve all difficulties.  He states that although the will of the majority will prevail, their voice must be reasonable and the minority, too will be protected by the law.  Jefferson encourages Americans to unite under one heart and one mind, avoiding bloody, wicked conflicts.  Later on, he makes note of the strength of the republican government saying that it is "the strongest government on the earth."  The government, he says, will protect the people from injury however, it will give them the freedom to regulate their own pursuits of industry and improvements.  Jefferson lists several essential principles of government including equality of all men, religious freedom, peaceful relations with other nations, no entangling alliances, support of the state government, and preservation of the general government.  He concludes by saying that he will not always make decisions that please everyone and asks for forgiveness for these errors.

Columbus Blog #8

Every year on October 12th, Americans enjoy a relaxing day off of work and school all thanks to a famed Italian man who sailed for spain, Christopher Columbus, whose sailing of the ocean blue in 1492 resulted in the discovery of our vast continent. The majority of Americans celebrate Columbus Day in remembrance of Columbus's finding of America, his greatest achievement.  However, most tend to forget his unthinkable characteristics that truly entitle him as a villain.  For instance, he demonstrated an utter misunderstanding of the globe by believing that he had landed in the  East Indies when in reality he was in the Caribbean.  It seems impractical that a so called "expert navigator and sailor" could make such a catastrophic mistake.  Because of his belief that he was in the East Indies, he falsely referred to Native Americans as Indians, an incorrect terminology which still commonly exists today.  Furthermore, Columbus committed unthinkable crimes amongst the Native peoples who resided in his conquered lands.  He oversaw the slaughtering as well as sale of the Natives into slavery, a system which he knew was brutal and inhumane, yet continue to do anyway for the wealth that it brought him.  A so called "man of faith" exhibited all but religious values in his dealing with the newly discovered land.  Some sources go as far as claiming that Columbus also raped and tortured native women. Others state that Columbus falls under the same category as Hernando Cortes and Francisco Pizarro, notorious Spanish conquistadors who exploited the Natives in hopes to acquire their gold.  Columbus is so similarly related to the infamous conquistadors as he also permitted the harsh, treatment of Natives, all out of interest of wealth and greed.   He is classified as one of the many contributors to the Native American genocide, in which thousands were killed during the age of discovery.  When the topic of genocide comes up, most people think immediately of the holocaust and Hitler's murdering of  6 million Jews, a well-known, and downright horrific event.  According to American Indian activist, Russell Means, "Columbus makes Hitler look like a juvenile delinquent."  The following statement puts into perspective the scale to which Columbus committed atrocities amongst Natives. Sure Columbus can be credited with discovering a new world full of potential.  But as you enjoy your day off, ask yourself this:  Should Americans really celebrate, honor, and praise a cruel, vile man with so little moral values?  

LAD #7: Washington's Farewell Adress

 The document is Washington's good bye to the world of politics--his retirement.  Firstly, Wasington gave thanks to the American citizens for being strong supporters of his policies which in turn led to their success.  He recommended various things for the well-being of the Americans.  For instance, he encouraged them to avoid the creation of political parties. He believed that they would eventually split the nation and destroy the existing union, something essential for the success of the country.  He additionally advised Americans to remain neutral--to not make any friends or enemies.  Isolation from all foreign affairs was highly encouraged.  War was plainly discouraged and he made a point that the military should not become too strong and take over the government.  Washington furthermore claimed that the continued obidence to the constitution must occur, and that Americans should never lose sight of its importance.

LAD #6: Washington's Proclamation of Neutrality

While war between Austria, Prussia, Sardinia, Great Britain, the United Netherlands, and France was occurrring, Washington advised The United States to not become involved in this conflict. American citizens who attempted to participate in the war in any way whatsoever were be punished for their actions.  Those who were punished will not be protected by the United States and Washington deemed appropriate the prosecution of the persons who went against the law.  This document was signed by George Washington on April 22, 1793

Republican Motherhood Blog

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

During the revolution, while men were away at war, it was the responsibility of women to run and maintain the home. During this time, they took on new responsibilities that typically weren't "womens' work" thus expanding their horizons beyond the typical home chores.  They became educators and intellectuals, whom supported the cause of the revolution by leading education in the home.  "It is here she can best serve her country, by training up good citizens, just, humane, and enlightened legislators" (Document A).  They thus changed roles from caregivers to patriots.

2.      What were the consequences of Republican Motherhood on women?
To some extent, republican motherhood limited women to carry on obligations of the household.  It is stated that obligations of the household are woman's duty to God to fufill them.  This is described in the following quote "Our chief aim throughout these pages is to prove that her domestic duties have a paramount claim over everything else upon her attention—that home is her appropriate sphere of action; and that whenever she neglects these duties, or goes out of this sphere of action to mingle in any great public movements of the day, she is deserting the station which God and nature have assigned to her." (Document A).

3.      What is the significance of the ideology of Republican Motherhood as a stage in the process of women’s socialization?
The ideology of Republican Motherhood led to a greater respect of women.  They were now depended on for responsibilities other than keeping up the home. "The state of property is America renders is necessary for the greatest part of our citizens to employ themselves in different occupations for the advancement of their fortunes.  This cannot be done without the assistance of the female members of the community." (Document B). Women were given the new duty of protecting their husband's property. They were also expected to teach their children a knowledge of the English language, the writing of a fair and legible hand,      Some knowledge of figures and bookkeeping, an acquaintance with geography, and some instruction in chronology… to read history, biography, and travels (Document B).

1.       Describe the setting.

The picture takes place within her dimly lit home, featuring the family upon a dull orange sofa.

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

The mother, Mary Gibson Tilghman, is located at the center of the portrait because during the revolution she became the center of the household while her husband was away fighting in the war.  She does not appear to be particularly wealthy.  Her clothing is not supreme, her hair not flawless.  Therefore, she appears to be more of a laborer than an aristocrat.

3.      What values do her sons exhibit?

Her sons appear to be obedient and tidy, both neatly dressed and presentable.  The are depicted to be calm as well as content, showing that Tilghman has served her role in raising them to be America's next intellectuals.

4.      Is there a significance to the position of Mrs. Tilghman’s arm?

Yes, her arm is positioned in a manner to protect the young child on the left of the photo.  By keeping him near to her, she can provide protection and nurture, not only of the typical mother, but of an educator who is raising a child to be well-educated, well-rounded, intelligent, and overall successful.

LAD #5: Federalist #10

1.  Why are factions so difficult to eliminate? Factions are difficult to eliminate because in order to do so, one would have to eliminate liberty, from which factions stem.  The task of ridding liberty, a beloved aspect of American society, would be extremely difficult and unlikely.  The second option would be to give make sure that everyone has the same opinions.  Again, this is a task that cannot be done.  No matter what, people within a society are always going to have different beliefs and thoughts from one another to some degree. 2.  If factions cannot be removed then how can they be controlled?

 Although factions cannot be completely eliminated, they are controllable.  For instance, if the faction consists of the minority, then according to the republican principle, they will not be able to succeed above the majority.  Factions can also be contained by limiting their growth in popularity and making sure that they do not spread further and encompass more people--keep the issue isolated.

LAD #4: Revolution Article

1.) Some people saw the revolution as less painful, less costly, and less vital than the civil war.  Prior to reading this article, I also shared this opinion and didn't realize how grueling the revolution actually was.

2.) Famous publications durring or about a war can cause it to become more memorable and influence how the war is recalled or opinions about it.

3.) The American revoluiton lasted eight years and was America's longest declared war.

4.) On the American side, about 30,000 perished.  On the British side, more than 50,000 were killed. 25% of British soldiers, American loyalists, and German mercenaries died.  These numbers are not quite accurate but are the best estimate of the results.

5.) In the civil war the most remembered figures were military men including, Ulysses S. Grant, Robert E. Lee, Stonewall Jackson, and William T. Sherman.  However, in the revolution, the best remembered figures are civilian leaders like John Hancock, Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, Ben Franklin, and Sam Adams.  I find this very interesting because typically when I think of wars, my attention is immediately drawn towards military leaders rather than political or other civilian leaders.  The author brought up a very interesting point.

LAD #3: The Declaration on Independence

Summary:

1.) democratic- the declaration establishes that all men are created equal and entitled to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.  It also states that if the government becomes too destructive the people have the right to alter or abolish it.

2.) grievances- the declaration illustrates the absolute tyranny that was exercised over the colonies as a major grievance.  The king refused to assent laws that were necessary for the public good, dissolved representative houses, destructed the administration of justice, passed unfair laws (quartering his troops, cutting off colonial trade with the rest of the world, denying trial by jury, imposing taxes without colonial consent, taking away colonial charters, abolishing colonial law). Lastly, he stopped protecting the colonies and in fact, waged war against them.

3.) conclusion- The documents concludes by stating that the colonies declare themselves free and independent states.  They are no longer tied to the British crown and any political connection between them is dissolved.

LAD #2: The Zenger Trial

1.Who was John Peter Zenger?
John Peter Zenger was a newspaper publisher in New York who was brought to court in 1734 for voicing his opposition to the newly appointed colonial governor, William Crosby, in the New York Weekly Journal. He was charged with seditious libel.
2. What was the controversy over his charges? Talk about Hamilton's defense.
The prosecution argued that the fact that the statements against the governor were published at all was enough to convict Zenger whether the statements were true or not.  Zenger's defense lawyer, Alexander Hamilton admitted that the stories opposing the governor had been published by Zenger, but he denied that it was libel since the statements made were not false.  At the conclusion of the trial, Zenger was found not guilty.                                   
3. What influence did his case have on American governmental tradition?
The Zenger Trial greatly influenced American governmental tradition because it impacted all future libel suits.  Truth was now a defense against libel.  In other words, if a statement of opposition againts a public official was true, then it could not be libel
4. What is the lasting significance of his trial? Explain.
The lasting significance of this trial was the advancement of the freedom of the press as well as an achievement for the health of democracy. After the trial, newspapers eventually were able to print criticisms of officials.  Concern about going to trial for libel was no longer necessary as long as the information printed was true.

LAD #1: The Mayflower Compact and The Fundamental Orders of Connecticut

1) What concepts are included in the Mayflower Compact?

The concepts included in the Mayflower Compact include the formation of a crude government,  as well as the agreement to pass laws, ordinances, acts, or constitutions for the good of the colony.  It also expressed faith and belief in God. Religion was a critical aspect of the Pilgrims' life.

2) How does the Mayflower Compact reflect and attachment to both the "Old" and "New" worlds?

 The Mayflower Compact reflected an attachment to both the old and new worlds because in the document, the authors pledge loyalty to King James and native England, which is characteristic of old world society in which subjects were expected to worship their monarch and nation.  However, the document was also a step towards self- government and included some democratic ideals.  For instance, all citizens (in reality just the white males) were given the opportunity to participate in government.  It also established a system in which the majority would rule, not just the aristocrats and monarchs.  

3) How did the Fundamental Orders of Connecticut differ from the Mayflower Compact?

The Mayflower Compact differed from the Fundamental Orders of Connecticut because first of all, it was drafted by Separatists, while the Fundamental Orders of Connecticut was drafted by Puritans. Also, the Mayflower compact was not actually a constitution, but only a simple agreement to form a government.  On the other hand, The Fundamental Orders of Connecticut was an actual written constitution that had specific rules and regulations that were  enforced and expected to be followed. 

4) What prompted the colonists of Connecticut to take this approach to government, i.e.: use of a written Constitution?

The colonists of Connecticut were prompted to take this approach for numerous reasons. The Puritans believe that it is God's request for them to set up an orderly and decent government established in order to keep the peace and unity of the people. Also, the Fundamental Orders brought together numerous towns into one single body, so therefore there was a need for a stronger government to control and regulate the affairs of the new unified region.

5) In what significant way(s) does the Fundamental Orders reflect a fear of and safeguard against the usurping of power by one person or a chosen few?

 The Fundamental Orders reflected a fear of and safeguard against the usurping of power by one person or a chosen few by enforcing democratic principles.  The people, for example, elected the officials.  Various restrictions were also placed on rule therefore no single person could become too powerful. For instance, the governor could only serve for a maximum of two years.

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