LAD #21: Carnegie's Gospel of Wealth

Summary of Andrew Carnegie's Gospel of Wealth -

Carnegie believed that the contrast between millionaire and laborer is welcoming because it is essential for progression.  He also thought that there were three ways to dispense money: leave it to family, give it to the public, or give it away while still alive.  The first is the most unjust way, why should a child gain everything?  The second is just a way to dispose of money and it will be heavily taxed.  the third is the "true antidote".  Additionally, it is the duty of a wealthy man to be a role model and set an example of modesty. 

LAD #19: Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address

Summary of Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address -

Lincolns began his second term on March 4, 1865.  He commences by discussing the anxiety that Americans were feeling about the possibility of a Civil War when he stood there four years ago.  Now, Americans are anxiously waiting for the end of the war.  Everyone understands that slavery was the cause of this war but no one expected this conflict to last as long as it had at this point.  It is time for Americans to reunite and heal the nation and create a lasting peace.

LAD #18: Dred Scott decision

Summary of Chief Justice Roger Taney's decision in the Dred Scott V Sanford case -

Roger Taney ruled that slaves were property in the Dred Scott V Sanford case.  The constitution did not explicitly state a distinction between slaves and other types of property.  Taney declared the Missouri Compromise as unconstitutional because it denied slave owners their property.  Though Dred Scott stayed in a free state, Illinois, he filed the lawsuit in a slave state, Missouri.  As property, a slave, Scott was not allowed to sue; therefore the case was dismissed.

LAD #17: Sojourner Truth's "Ain't I a Woman" speech

Summary of Truth's "Ain't I a Woman" speech -

Sojourner Truth delivered this speech in December of 1851 at a Women's Convention in Akron, Ohio.    She begins by talking of what the man thinks women need.  They think women need aide in getting into carriages and being lifted over ditches; however, she does not receive that treatment.  She declares that she works as hard as a man does, and she can eat as much as a man can, and she can bear as much a man can.  She has had 13 children and had to experience the pain of selling them off.  After each of these statements she asks "and ain't I a woman?"  She wonders what intellect has to do with equal rights.  She mentions that without women there would be no men.  All people, white or black, male or female, should be equal.

LAD #16: Frederick Douglass' "5th of July" speech

Summary of Douglass' "5th of July" speech -

Frederick Douglass, a former slave, became a member of the Abolitionist Movement.  He delivered his 5th of July speech in Rochester in the year 1852.  The bulk of the speech was him questioning what blacks have to Independence Day for they do not feel that freedom.  In reality, Douglass feels despair during this day because it reveals the distance between a whites and blacks.  While the white man celebrates, he says he must mourn; he declares that the "Fourth of July is yours, not mine".  America's greatest sin is slavery and no other country is as guilty as the United States in regards to their treatment of blacks.

LAD #15: Lincoln's Gettysburg Address

Summary of the Gettysburg Address -

President Lincoln gave this speech, 152 years ago tomorrow, following the Battle of Gettysburg which was the turning point of the war.  Lincoln commences the address with "four score and seven years ago..."  America was created.  He compares the civil was to the American Revolution and discusses the foundation the United states was founded upon.  He states that they are gathered to honor the soldiers who have given their lives so that the nation could live on.  Furthermore, it is up to Americans to dedicate themselves to establishing a new freedom and that their government "of the people, by the people, and for the people shall not perish from the earth."

LAD #14: Lincoln's 1st Inaugural Address

Summary of Lincoln's First Inaugural Address -

Abraham Lincoln, the sixteenth president, swore into office on March 4, 1861.  Lincoln begins by discussing the issue of slavery and the southern states.  Lincoln did not want any states to secede so he reassured them that though he is a republican he has no interest in taking away their slaves and he wants to keep peace.  He also assured that slaves who escaped from a slave state to a free state would still not be considered free.  Then, Lincoln goes on to state that the country is not allowed to be broken apart for the Constitution binds the states together.  So, if any state wanted to secede then all the states would have to agree.  Overall, his speech is a message on how he would do anything to keep the country unified.

LAD #13 - John Calhoun's Speech

Summary of Calhoun's The Clay Compromise Measures

On March 4, 1850, John C. Calhoun's most famous speech was delivered by another senator due to Calhoun being too ill.  Calhoun believes that the issue of slavery will be the cause of a disunited America.  His thoughts go largely ignored, so he then asks how the union can be saved and what has endangered the Union.  Calhoun believed the main factor of the division between the North and South was slavery.  The North and South were like polar opposites, and Calhoun though that the differences could be traced back to the act of owning and selling slaves.  Additionally, the North's representation in the Senate was increasing as America expanded and gained more states.  Calhoun stated that slavery was necessary and it was the South's right to have slaves.  Neither the new economical system nor immigrants were beneficially impacting the South. The Union could be preserved if the North just restored the balance that was once between the two areas.

LAD #20: Emancipation Proclamation

Summary of the Emancipation Proclamation -

Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on September 22, 1862.  It stated that on the first day of the year 1863, all slaves would be free and the federal government will work to recognize and maintain their freedom.  He asks these free slaves to not be violent unless it is self defense and to work hard for reasonable wages.  Freed slaves are also able to join the armed services of America.

LAD #12 - President Polk's War Message

Summary of Polk's War Message, 1846

James K. Polk delivered a speech to Congress on the reasons we should go to war with Mexico.  Originally, Polk sought after a diplomatic solution to the border disputes and to the unjustified actions of the Mexican government to American settlers along that border.  As a result, Polk sent an envoy, John Slidell, to negotiate, but Mexico turned Anerica away and refused to hear any of their propositions.  Mexico then invaded United States territory.  All efforts to maintain friendly ties failed.  The U.S. decided to send in troops to defend the newly annexed territory and its citizens.  Mexican troops were invading our land and killing our soldiers.  This is why Polk saw it justified to go to war.

LAD #11 - Seneca Falls Declaration

Summary of The Seneca Falls Declaration of Sentiments and Resolutions -

The Seneca Falls Convention, held from July 19-20, 1848, was the first convention for women's rights.  It was organized by Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucrecia Mott.  It advocated for both the emancipation of women and slaves.  Throughout history, men have held all the power over women.  Women can not vote, can not own property, and is required to be obedient to her husband.  Man made it so that women must depend on men to live their lives.  Women believed that these rules were unjust and felt that they were entitled to the same rights as men, as they too were American citizens.  God is supreme and he dictated that one should pursue true happiness.  As the superior being, this statement resolved that women were created equal to men, that they should have the right to vote, and that it was their duty to attain that right.

LAD #10: Monroe Doctrine

1. What did the issuing of the Monroe Doctrine express from an American perspective post War of 1812?
From an American's perspective, the Monroe Doctrine expressed the people's confidence now they were able to not lose a war against the British. It also expressed that they would not allow other countries to colonize America or any part of it.  The doctrine said that they would respond to any attempt with military force.  The Monroe Doctrine was a statement of power.

2. What was Secretary of State Adams' hope when he wrote the Monroe Doctrine?
Adams' hope was that the Monroe Doctrine would keep America out of wars with Britain. He also wanted the U.S to remain neutral in general.  Adams also hoped to prevent future world wars.  Additionally, he wanted the United States to appear as a strong, unified country.

3. What is the key phrase in the entire document that you need to remember as the cornerstone of American Foreign Policy?
“In the wars of the European powers in matters relating to themselves we have never taken any part, nor does it comport with our policy to do so. It is only when our rights are invaded or seriously menaced that we resent injuries or make preparation for our defense”

Columbus Blog

Was Christopher Columbus a hero or a villain?

      In fourteen hundred ninety-two, Columbus sailed the ocean blue. This is what we learn of him. We are taught of a man who accidentally discovered America while looking for an all-water route to Asia. He is also the man who aided in the decimation of the Native American population. So, is he friend or foe? He is both, however the negative impact he left outweighs his positive actions.
      Christopher Columbus struck a deal with the King and Queen of Spain; the negotiations was called The Capitulations of Santa Fe. The contract earned Columbus 10% of profits of anything he encountered and it also named him "admiral, viceroy, and governor of any land he discovered" (bio.). According to historian Howard Zinn, Columbus falls into the same category as conquistadors, Hernando Cortes and Francisco Pizarro. He brought over diseases that were fatal to the Natives who weren't immune. Columbus and his men enslaved many Indians and sold them, or he put them to work to increase his profits. He treated the natives harshly, brutally killing them. Furthermore, "in an attempt to deter further rebellion, Columbus ordered their dismembered bodies to be paraded through the streets" (History.com). Christopher Columbus heavily mistreated the natives of America that were there long before him. His greed overruled all other traits and he saw them as an ends to a mean, money. It would have benefitted more people if Columbus just stayed on his side of the ocean. Today, we celebrate a man unworthy of a holiday.

LAD #9: Jefferson's First Inaugural Address

Summary of Jefferson's First Innaugural Address -

Thomas Jefferson swore into office on March 4, 1801. On that day he became the third man to do so. He begins his address with a conveyance to the people of his gratitude for the opportunity he has received. Jefferson portrays modesty and humility at the start. He says that he will look to the Constitution for guidance in making decisions. One of his goals is for a united, yet tolerant, country. So, although the government is based on majority vote, the minority groups will also be heard, even those who don't agree with the Republican view. Jefferson believes that a Republican form of government is the strongest and that the people should go forth with confidence that it is. Every aspect will be bettered: economy, government, society. Jefferson's principles are equal justice for all men, support and preservation of the government, a well trained militia, and a following of the Constitution (freedoms of speech, press, etc.) He concludes his speech by pledging to uphold these principles and do his best to bring peace and prosperity to America. He asks for peoples' forgiveness when he makes mistakes, and he asks they keep confidence in him.

LAD #7: Washington's Farewell Address

Summary of Washington's Farewell Address, 1796-
In Washington's Farewell Address, he announces that he will not be returning to run for a third term as President. He has been ready to officially retired for a while, however at the time he could not leave it in such a state. Washington advises the citizens to disapprove of the alienation and isolation of any part of the country. There may be differences among the country, but sticking together is key. Next, he cautions the people about political parties; they can cause rifts, jealousy, and corruption. Also, he mentions his Proclamation of Neutrality, saying that we should be friendly in our interactions with foreign countries. Additionally, he does believe in engaging in free trade with the Europeans and other nationa. Another point that Washington makes is on religion. He believes that it boosts private and public happiness as well as political prosperity. Washington wraps up in a display of patriotism by exclaiming his excitement to become a regular everyday American.

LAD #6: Washington's Proclamation of Neutrality

Summary of Washington's Proclamation of Neutrality, 1793-

George Washington created this during a time of war between Austria, Prussia, Sardinia, Great Britain, and the Netherlands vs France. The purpose of this proclamation is to keep the United States out of all the conflict going on in Europe in the 1970s. He cautioned the American citizens to not provide any aid, nor supplies. He stated, those who don't follow this law will be prosecuted accordingly and will no longer be a protectee of the U.S. Washington believed non-involvement was the best policy.

LAD #5: The Federalist #10

1. Why are factions so difficult to eliminate?
Elimating factions are difficult because there are only two methods to getting rid of factions, destroying liberty or standardizing opinions and ideas. Faction and liberty are inseparable and necessary to the government. The American government's duty is to protect the rights of man, and depriving liberty, conflicts with its obligations. Also, it is inevitable that there will be difference of opinions due to varying social classes.

2. If factions cannot be removed then how can they be controlled?
The effects of factions need to be controlled instead of attempting to eliminate them completely. If it's a minority faction then it can easily be defeated by a majority vote. One way a majority faction can be controlled is by preventing the similar passions within the majority. However, the only way to truly control the effects is with a republican, not a democracy. In a republic, citizens vote for their representatives to vote for laws, while in a democracy everyone votes for every law. With factions gaining representation, some of their demands can possibly be met and they can be quelled.

Republican Motherhood

Republican Motherhood

1. What role did the Revolutionary War play in the transformation of housewifery to Republican Motherhood?
Women still remained as the caretakers of the house and children even after the Revolution. However, their responsibilities increased because it was their job to raise the future generation for their newly free county. They have to teach them the principles that come along with being born into America (Doc B). Not only were the children supposed to be educated in the new, but they were also meant to never forget the old. The Revolution and its importance could not be forgotten (Doc C).

2.  What were the consequences of Republican Motherhood on women?
One consequence was the added pressure put on women. The expectations were higher and they had more duties placed on top of their original ones. It was said if a woman doesn't perform these duties then "she is deserting the station which God and nature have assigned to her" (Doc A). Jonathan F Stearns also stated that if they are not successful with their duties then they will be the first to be "trodden under foot," placing more pressure upon the women (Doc D). Another consequence of Repblican Motherhood on women was the increase in required education for women. Now, a lady should have legible handwriting and be knowledgeable in the English language, numbers, bookkeeping, geography, chronology, history, biography, and traveling (Doc B). Another c

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 was to increase women's status and importance in American society. Women were the role models for the first generation born into the free country. The pride that came with this role led to women "asserting the importance and the honor of their sex" (Doc C). Also, in Document B, Benyamin Rush talks about women's education. The education they receive help raise their importance in the later women's rights movements.

Mary Gibson Tilgham

1. Describe the setting
A woman, seemingly wealthy, and presumably the mother of
the two young boys painted along with her. One is upon her lap and the other is beside her on the couch. They all seem serene as they appear to be directly looking at the painter.

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

Mary Gibson Tilgham, the mother, is displayed as the center of the portrait. She is displayed as a well put together woman, she has her hair styled, and a dress that hints at wealth. The artist is portraying her as the ideal representative of "republican motherhood." Mothers raised the children, and that means the future generations were shaped by them. Thus, women involved in this republican were of a higher status.

3. What values do her sons exhibit?
Her sons seem calm and well behaved indicating Tilgham raised them properly. They look as if they both love and respect their mother.

4. Is there a significance to the position of Mrs. Tilgham's arm?
Yes, the younger boy is reaching out to his brother, and it is Mrs. Tilgham's arm that is holding him back. It is showing that she is fulfilling her role properly by making sure her son is acting proper and well behaved. It shows her power as well as the care she has for her children.

LAD #4: Revolution Article

Five things that I have learned about the Revolutionary War and Civil War

1. I knew that the Civil War had the most American fatalities, however I was unaware that it was around six to seven hundred thousand lives. Considering the new technology of today, I thought by now the Civil War numbers would have been surpassed. This is possibly why it is one of the most well known event in American history.
2. It is strange to think about everything that is around at one point. I did not know that the camera was invented by the time of the Civil War. That makes it one of the first wars to be pictured rather than drawn up or painted by creative choice.
3. I was surprised to learn that the Civil War is considered by some to be the first modern war. When I think of modern, what comes to mind is more of the 21st century.
4. I learned that about 30,000 American soldiers perished out of the total population of 2.5 million during the Revolutionary War. It is interesting that when comparing that to today's population, the losses would be closer to 3 million. That's half a million more than the total population back then.
5. I also found it interesting that in the Revolutionary Was so many soldiers were taken prisoner, and that of those captives from the Continental Army, a whopping 47% did not survive their jailing. Comparably, the total percent of prisoners that died during the Civil War was only 27%. This surprised me because the Civil had a hire fatality rate in general.

LAD #3: Declaration of Independence

1. Democratic principles
The Declaration of Independence is the embodiment of democracy. After being so repressed in practically all aspects of life, the colonists wanted to have a say in how they lived. Everyone has the unalienable rights to "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness," and the government's purpose is to protect these rights. The declaration also proclaims that it is the duty of the people to create a new government if the current one is in the wrong.

2. Grievances
The conclusion stated a long list of grievances mainly towards Britain and its king. There were no laws imposed, yet he created a law that disallowed the creation of a government or laws. Also, he dissolved both Representative Houses when they opposed his treatment towards the colonists. The King required colonists to house soldiers, cut off trade, imposed taxes, and denied trial by jury, among other misdemeanors. The King continuously infringed upon what should be basic rights and the people declared that that is not a person fit to rule

3. Conclusion
The conclusion declares the United States of America a "free and independent state". It also states that all obedience and political ties to the British crown were to be cut. The colonists wanted the full ability to declare wars, establish peace treaties, create alliances, and establish themselves on the trade market. In other words, the United States want the right to conduct themselves as other countries do

LAD #2: Zenger Trial

1. Who was John Peter Zenger?
John Peter Zenger was a journalist who published a newspaper that criticized governor William Cosby. This led to his jailing for libel.

2. What was the controversy over his charges? Talk about Hamilton's defense.
Libel is a published statement that is false. Hamilton argument was that yes, Zenger published the articles, but a statement can't be considered libel if it can be proved.

3. What influence did his case have on American governmental tradition? 
Hamilton's success with the case affirmed the Freedom of Press. Also, Zenger's case set the precedent against judicial tyranny in libel suits

4. What is the lasting significance of his trial? Explain.
The lasting significance is that the Freedom of Press is now an amendment among our Bill of Rights. Opposition, no matter how defaming, was no longer illegal if proven true. No longer were people jailed for speaking their mind. This revolutionized what was printed in newspapers. In addition, a new standard was set in preceding with libel suits.

LAD #1: Mayflower Compact & Fundamental Orders of Connecticut

1) What concepts are included in the Mayflower Compact?

The first colony was established for God's glory, to extend the Christian faith, and to honor their king and country.

All present had to agree to join together to form a political group

That same political body had to create and enforce laws for the good of the community

A group of representatives had to meet from time to time to preserve the "Good of the Colony"

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

The Mayflower Compact reflects an attachment to the Old World by showing loyalty to the country they emigrated from. They show honor to the King James of England, France, and Ireland. However, they show attachment to the new world by creating their own political body separate from King James'. They create new laws and have different political representatives.

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

The Fundamental Orders of Connecticut have the rules outlined more specifically. The Orders are a list of laws that describe how the colonists will protect their own rights, using elections and trials. On the other hand, the Mayflower Compact was extremely vague and didn't specifically state any laws.

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

The colonists needed a stronger more stable government as well as something different from the government they left behind. To reach this, more laws and set guidelines are necessary. Also, this democratic form of government allowed the majority of colonists to have a say in what they wanted their rights to be.

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 way the Orders reflect fear of a single powerful individual is by setting up a democratic body. This distributes the power more evenly among more people. The government officials had to be elected by the people. Also, elections were held every year so no one person could hold power for too long.

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