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.