LAD #22 McKinley's War Message

25th President, McKinley

"In the name of humanity...the war in Cuba must stop". President McKinley said this to congress on April 11th 1898. He was speaking about the war in Cuba against there mother country, Spain. McKinley recognized the losses this war had on America even though we pledged to stay neutral. Although he was unhappy with the trading conditions, he also believed Cuba was at risk. He wanted America to stay neutral throughout the war, but it was difficult considering the disturbance the war had on Americans. He asked congress if he could intervene in the war for four reasons.
1. To stop the inhuman behavior and horrible bloodshed.
2. For the American Citizens in Cuba, they must be protected because the Cuban government is too weak to protect them.
3. The effect the war had on trade and commerce in America, causing the economy to fluctuate.
4. Cuba is so close to us, and we see it in harm so we must protect them which will not only save them now, but help us in the future.
McKinley continues by stating that the Maine, an American ship, was destroyed, making it obvious that although America wants to stay neutral, it is being pulled in, whether they like it or not. He finally states that it is up too congress on whether to enter the war or not, and he will leave it up to them for making the decision.

LAD #21/Carnegie's Gospel of Wealth

Andrew Carnegie, was a very successful business man who made his profits from iron, steel and railroads. In Carnegie's Gospel of Wealth, Carnegie addresses the economic gap between the rich and the poor. Because of Industrialization, the gap had become even greater rather than the small differences in the previous years. Carnegie, no doubtfully believed that the wealthy, upper class need to be present in a growing society for the fact that they stimulate the economy. Carnegie also talked about his disbelief in inheriting wealth because it was not good for the economy, instead he believed money should be handed out to charities, business and family during one's life time. That way the money would be of value during their lifetime, rather than lose its value after their death. Carnegie finishes by saying that it is the wealthy man's duty to help the economy and the other people in the economy.

LAD #20 Emancipation Proclamation

Although the Emancipation Proclamation was short, it was to the point and very significant. On January 1st 186, this document declared any slave in a rebellion state, would be free. Lincoln recognized the slave states as, Arkansas, Texas, Parts of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North and South Carolina and Parts of Virginia. Lincoln stressed that the freed slaves were all to be excepted into the Country as citizens, and the Citizens and government were asked to recognize them as so. Lincoln also adds that all free slaves will be excepted into the US Army to do various jobs. Hopeful Abraham Lincoln was hoping this document to make the Civil War simmer down and create a united country again.

LAD #19 Lincoln's 2nd inaugural address

In 1865, Lincoln states how he is the same person and has the same opinions as he did since his last presidency. He mentions how in his last address, he mostly spoke about the civil war, but now he wants to move forward and create a better America. A great portion of our population are black slaves and Lincoln felt it was strange that all Americans are people, and they all pray to the same god, but for some reason the issues are so large, that it led to war. He lastly says that in order to create a strong, united nation, American people need to create peace and work together.

LAD #18/ Dred Scott vs. Sanford

   In the 1850's, when America was at it's breaking point, a famous case took the Supreme Court, The Dred Scott vs. Sanford. This case,clearly defined the northern abolitionist, and the pro-slavery south. The decision was purely up to Roger Taney, and because of his decision, he got a lot of hate, and it was argued to a great extent. Taney, did not want any blacks, slave or free to be able to get the rights the whites had. Taney believed that even Scott was never a full citizen, although he was free, can not sue the Federal court. Taney looked to the constitution, where slaves and property are not differentiated  so he told Dred Scott he was still a slave, and was forced to go back to the Missouri territory. This highly controversial issue, caused a greater hatred among the United States, which led its way to the out break of the Civil War.

Blog #17/ Sojourner Truth "Aint I A Woman?"

"Ain't I A Woman?"

     In 1851, Sojourner Truth, a black woman, performed a very moving speech about rights for not just white woman, but black woman as well.  She calls out two major issues, racist and sexists. She questions why woman are constantly being seen as helpless and weak, when really, woman can do anything. She also doesn't understand why white woman are treated so much better than black woman, but "Ain't (she) a woman?"  While she is a woman of the south, she doesn't quite understand why the woman of the north are treated very nicely and with respect. Although they both have few rights, "Ain't (they both) a Woman?" She also questions why woman are seen as dumb or, less smart than men, but she really doesn't care about that, because she would rather have respect. Truth ends her argument, with men would be nothing without woman; they wouldn't be here without a woman.

Blog #16/ Frederick Douglas "5th of July"

"5th of July" Speech

    In 1852, Frederick Douglas, a former slave made this speech in Rochester, NY. Frederick Douglas is responding to the celebration of Independence day, or Fourth of July. Prior to the Civil war, Independence day was taken differently by Blacks than Whites. Douglas felt this celebration was very hypocritical of the government, because America wasn't truly a free country. Although it was free from Britain and any other power, there was a major population who were not free, these people were the slaves. Douglas goes on to explain how the every day lives of the slaves, for lack of a better word, sucked. They were poorly treated by their owners and were really abused by them. Douglas's speech is significant because of his idea of a "5th of July", a new freedom for blacks, a time where blacks and whites can both be free. Douglas ends his speech by saying "There is not a nation of savages. There is not a nation on the earth guilty of practices more shocking and bloody than are the people of the United States at this very hour." Abolitionist, along with other slaves, realized that America treated slavery differently, Americans based slavery on Race.  

LAD #15 Gettysburg Address

After defeating the Confederate Army at Gettysburg, President Lincoln, gives his famous speech about honoring the Soldiers who have fought for the preservation of our country. Lincoln thanks all of the Soldiers that have fought for the Union to establish the peace and prosperity the country needs. He also encourages the people to continue fighting, so that the men who died, died for the preservation of the union that was created about 90 years before. Lincoln concluded by saying "nation under God shall have a new birth of freedom", and reassured the crowd that after fighting, the nation will come back stronger and more united than ever. 

LAD #14 Lincoln's First Inaugural Address

In 1861, at the brink of the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln made his inaugural speech. He made it clear to the Southern states that he did not intend on outlawing slavery in any area it had already existed. For other fearful southerners, he said he was sure to protect all states rights and recreate the bond of the united nation. To protect states rights and gain support from other southerners, he said he would keep the fugitive slave act;  this would ensure any slave that ran away into another state would be forced to return to its owner.
Other than, gaining loyalty from the south, Lincoln's main message and hope was to create a united union again. Because of the age of the Union, Lincoln felt it was necessary to persevere through this hard time. He told the states that threatened succession, that their act was unconstitutional. And although never mentioned in the Constitution, he felt that the civil war, and the threat of succession would ruin American's prosperity. Lastly, Lincoln said that all American's are friends and family and he would do anything he could to keep that family bond.

LAD #13/ John Calhoun's Speech

In 1850, John Calhoun addresses the senate about the issue disrupting the United Nation, Slavery. Calhoun suggests that the sectionalism that had been arising, and more importantly the major issue of Slavery, will soon disrupt the nature of the United Nation, and create a disunite nation. Calhoun's main goal was to unite the north and south and the different political parties, in order to create a stronger union then before. The North, were always at the advantage because of their greater population, and more states, thus giving them more control in the government. Where the south had a smaller population, because the slaves didn't count, and less sates, giving them a weaker hold of the federal government. The North, having a greater hold of the government, were able to show their disapproval of slavery to the south, and even attempt to stop slavery all together. This is where the disputes arose, on whoever had the most power in the government. Calhoun continues to say the only way to create a united union was for the North to give the South their rights in the newly acquired territory, return all of the fugitive slaves to the south, and end the disapproval of slavery. In the end, although the north would not agree, would create a equal north and south, and would decrease any threat of succession.

LAD #12/ Polk's War Message

  In Polk's war message, in 1846, Polk describes the relationship between the United States and Mexico. He explains the importance of war to congress because of the lack of respect America was receiving  This relationship is not very healthy because of the disputes over the borders as well as the general violence between the two nations. American's were not happy with the violence because fellow citizens were being killed. Although America had tried to fix the diplomatic relations with Mexico, it had failed. The failure of the relationship had been an unfortunate event because of the flourishing trade both countries had had. But soon, because of the hostilities of the Mexican, American trade was at a downfall.
   When Texas was annexed in 1845, Mexico was still hostile toward America and land claims were unresolved. Both Nations believed they had claimed land, and this is were the battle began. The American's were merely trying to protect their new state, as well as, the Country's name. After killing Americans, Polk sent General Taylor to defend America, and in his statement to Congress, he asked for their support in defending the Country's liberty and justice. Polk continued to ask for volunteers to defend the country's patriotism and name.

LAD #11/ Seneca Falls Declaration

Seneca Falls Declaration

   On July 19th, 1848, the Seneca Falls Declaration was declared during the Seneca Falls Convention. This convention's main goal was to give woman equality with men. The Declaration is split up into two parts. Part one, states what I like to call "The New heading of the Constitution." Within it, it states "We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men and women are created equal", in the original part of the constitution, it merely states that all men are created equal. It continues to include that woman are entitled to all rights that men have. Throughout history, woman have realized their unequal treatment and are finally commanding change. It states many of the different occasions when woman were not given equal rights. Some include, he never allowed her to have a voice under the law, he has taken all property, he has forbid her from divorce  unless he so wishes divorce, and many more. The woman, are rightfully sharing their unhappiness with the way they have been treated over the past hundred or more years. After stating these facts, it goes on to state reasons on how these problems can be resolved. Resolving these issues would be very simple, if all men came to realize and understand that woman are men's equal. The woman pushed for equality because woman are capable of standing up to the men. Finally, it states that it is all woman's duty to promote themselves, and be given the education their "brother" receives. It ends with all woman's rights should not be withheld, and this would end the fighting between the men and woman. 

LAD #10/ Monroe Doctrine

James Monroe

  On December 2nd, 1823, President Monroe addressed all of the European powers. James Monroe says that the Europeans may not colonize any more of the "new world" from here on in. Powers including Russia, Great Britain and the Untied States, have all agreed that it would be best if colonization ended and they only focused on Domestic problems. Monroe was worried that any attempt to colonize any nations near or around the United states, would be a threat to America's security. Not only would we feel threatened, but we would have to make appropriate actions. This document, created a new idea of Independence for nations like Mexico and Chile and allowed these nations to become independent.

LAD #9 Jefferson's First Inaugural Address

Thomas Jefferson
The Second President of the United States of America

 Thomas Jefferson was inaugurated as the second president of the United States in 1801. He was very modest in the beginning and really tried to get the people to understand that they are "All in this together." Jefferson expresses the importance of the Constitution, which, although he finally agreed to it, he was an anti-federalists prior. This made Americans feel like they should trust, and follow the constitution, because their own president is representing it. He continues to say that although he doesn't have all of the talents needed, the constitution and the people will continue to empower the "rising nation." He believes that the constitution  as well as the citizens will help guide america to power, as well as make it the thriving nation it will soon become. He encourages the people to trust the new Federal Government for it is not only stronger than ever, but it does give the individuals the natural rights they desire and deserve. Jefferson continues to say that the people must always trust the government for it is being run by the people, as well as only hopes to benefit the people. Jefferson truly believes that if  the people trust the government, then he will be able to work with the governed to his fullest potential. Jefferson closes by restating the importance of working together, which will allow "Infinite Power" to the people, that will eventually lead to "...Peace and prosperity."

Columbus Blog #8

Is Christopher Columbus a hero, or a villain?

Christopher Columbus

     In elementary and middle school, I was taught about the greatness of this man who was the founder of America, and "sailed the ocean blue in 1492". I learned that he was the first person to discover this country I am so very happy to live in, but what teachers failed to teach me was the fact that he not only was arrogant  he was not the only person to get the credit for founding America. Yes, I do appreciate the man  for the mere fact that he "founded" this country, but also that I get a day off of school for him, but after reading about him, I learned that maybe we give him to much credit, and although he did have many accomplishments, so did many other people that do not get nearly enough credit as he did.
      Christopher Columbus, upon his arrival in the New World, did not treat the natives with respect. He had entered their land, and treated them as if they were inferior to him. He captured and sent many natives back to Spain as slaves and the ones he left alone, he traded with them very unfairly. This was the just the beginning of the poor treatment of the Native Americans. Although I do understand that it was the time period, some may blame Columbus for starting this poor treatment. The Spanish  including Columbus were so "gold-hungry" that they would do anything to get gold. This poor treatment led to, in the years to come, the caste system created by Spanish Conquistadors, so the Spanish could keep their supremacy. 
     On the contrary, Columbus did make many advancements that led to the faster development of the new world. Although other explorers had run in to the Continent before, Columbus was the first explorer to make a lasting European contact with America. Columbus was a very hard worker and stopped at nothing to reach his desires. For example, he worked very hard to get money from the queen to be able to travel to the New World because he believed that something good would come out of exploring new land in the west. Also he spread the Christian religion to America and the contact that he was able to create with the new natives, led to eventually the creation of the United States of America.
     Some may hate Columbus, but some may look up to him as a hero who benefited the American society. He killed, punished and overall, treated the natives so poorly that I believe his accomplishments cant be compared. If he were really a good man, and a hero, would he treat people so horribly?

LAD/Blog #7 Washington's Farewell Address

Washington's Farewell Address 1796

   After serving two, four year terms, George Washington felt that it was necessary to let another be the head of the great nation. Although the people wanted him to continue leading the country, he encouraged the people to limit the number of terms, so they would not return to the monarchy, that the people were so unhappy with. Within the address, he gave advice to the Americans on what he believes needed to stay the same, change or revise and avoid in order to keep the country moving forward.

Washington's Farewell Address 1796

     He encourages all Americans to be united and stay united, or independence will have no hope. He states that it is not only important to be loyal to your state, but to the country as well. The towns, cities, states, and Country needs to be unified as one. Each one making the other even more important. He also address the need for not having different parties, for it will pull the country apart. 

     Another thing Washington addresses is the newly written constitution. He says that it is much better then the Articles, for it allows the central government more power. If the people were to follow it, the country would be safe from any internal wars. He also addresses the importance of adding new amendments, if the government is not doing its job.  Washington backs up the checks and balances system, for it will keep the United States a democracy rather than a monarchy or even a dictatorship.

     Washington argues the importance of money management and foreign relations. This will help our nation grow and stay strong. He states that although the country and individuals should not partake in any foreign war, they should do their best to keep the relationships with all other countries strong. He also states that their should be free trade with other countries, to keep the relationships strong. 

    At the end of his address, he takes full responsibility for any mistake he has made, making him just like every other common person.  He is very proud of the nation that he, along with many others were able to create. 

LAD/Blog #6 Washington's Proclamation of Neutrality

The Proclamation of Neutrality 1793

In Washington's Proclamation of Neutrality, he insists that the United States does not partake in any foreign war. The United states should stay neutral and provide no help to either side. He also says that any American that helps or supports one side, will no longer be under the protection of America. The people who support a side in a foreign war, will be punished. He is very adamant in not having America be caught up in a foreign war or any other foreign conflicts. 

George Washington

Republican Motherhood

1. What role did the Revolutionary War play in the transformation of housewifely to Republican Motherhood?
    During the Revolutionary War, woman played an important role, to raise and bring up the youth of the colonies/states well. "It is here she can best serve her country, by training up good citizens..." (Doc. A) The Mother of the family, was now not only responsible for household chores, but bring up the children, especially the boys well, that are trained to be successful. While the men were fighting, it was important that the woman had a good education in literature, as well as liberty and government to teach her sons (Doc B). The revolutionary war not only changed the nation, but it also transformed the woman from a caregiver to a Republican Mother that was an important aspect to the children's lives.

2. What were the consequences of Republican Motherhood on woman?
   The consequences of the Republican Motherhood on the woman can be both positive and negative. The woman were certainly given more responsibility because they were 100% responsible for the children's upbringing (Doc A). Woman were also allowed and able to get more schooling and a better education, that would help them in the future (Doc B). On the negative side, woman "may never herself step beyond the threshold" (Doc D). This making woman very contained and still had very limited rights. As well as the woman had a lot of pressure to raise their family right (Doc D).

3. What is the significance of the ideology of Republican Motherhood as a stage in the process of women's socialization?
    The Republican Motherhood, were baby steps to reach the society we live in today, and where woman fit in socially. "to prepare you for the duties of social and domestic life" (Doc B). The woman were starting to get an education, basic but an education none the less. Also the mother was a huge impact on her children's lives, and for each generation, the children got a little bit more education, making their lives better then the next.

Mary Gibson Tilghman and her sons

1. Describe the setting.
  The background looks like a simple home with basic walls and furniture. There is no sign of a father, and the mother is in the middle, representing her importance. She is holding her 2 children.
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 is the center of the portrait because of her sole importance in raising the children and keeping the house going. The woman looks content and happy to be there with her children. She is not aristocratic because the way she is holding her children, and although she is wearing a dress, it is simple and an everyday outfit.
3. What values do her sons exhibit?
Her sons exhibit her purpose. Her sole job is to raise the boys into good men, and teach them the importance of liberty and government. The children also look happy and well behaved, traits probably thought by the mother.
4. Is there a significance to the position of Mrs. Tilgham's arm?
 The arm represents her love for the boys, and her enjoying taking care of them. She is with them everyday, and her arm shows how she is glad that she has the two boys to care for and teach everyday lessons.


                                                                           

LAD/Blog Post #5 : Federalist Papers No. 10

1. Why are factions so difficult to eliminate?

James Madison, Author of Federalist Papers No. 10

    A faction is a group of people who can be either a majority or an minority that are aligned because of  their passion for a certain subject or interest. It is so difficult to eliminate factions because of the boundless enthusiasm they have, also they often unite to make it even harder to eliminate it. The factions are so strong and open about their opinions that unless you take action to remove them, it is nearly impossible.

2. If factions cannot be removed then how can they be controlled?
    Based on the previous question, it is very hard to completely eliminate or remove factions because of their passion and the fact that they are so united. But, if the faction is the minority, it can easily be eliminated by a vote because they would be out voted by the majority. However, if the faction is the majority, that can be a little more difficult. Some may suggest a complete change in the government, for example a republic. A republic, ruled by only the elected people rather then the population as a whole, may be good, besides the fact that the factions may get their way completely if they are the elected. Factions are very difficult to remove and can cause a lot of stress and unneeded drama that the government needs to take care of, to support and do the best for the people.

LAD/Blog #4 Rethinking the Revolution

George Washington crossing the Delaware

After reading Rethinking the Revolution, I learned....
1. The Founding Fathers, and the wealthy Americans, were constantly worrying how the war and themselves would be remembered, so many of them wrote biographies about themselves that express there positive effects.
2. The Civil War is known as a modern war, The confederates and union forces were able to mobilize their arms and supplies at an equal scale of World War II. Because of the time period, the camera was available to show the war in a more modern perspective.
3. Adams, predicted that Washington was going to be able to win the War of Independence single-handedly. War was fought in the south and north, and the French were not as helpful in the Victory as we think today.
4. The Revolutionary generation was long gone in the years coming up to the Civil war, all the people had were the memories, that may not be as accurate as the people thought.This caused the two wars to be seen in two different lights.
5.  The conditions the soldiers went through during the Revolution, were not as bad as the historians tell us, besides the Winter at Vally Forge.

LAD/Blog #3- Declaration of Independence

Declaration of Independence

1. Democratic Principles-
     The Declaration of Independence was a major stepping stone, to help American reach the democracy we live in today. A majority of the Declarations lists democratic principles that still exist today. Thomas Jefferson's ideas of the "unalienable rights", life, liberty and pursuit of happiness. Also the idea that the government is responsible to making sure the people have this rights. Another principle would be the government always considering and doing things based on the needs of the people. The government is chosen by the people, and the people have the right to alter or abolish the government if it is becoming destructive.

2. Handful of Grievances-
     All of the grievances, point out something that Great Britain has done, to upset the colonists or make the colonists feel inferior to their Mother Country. Most of them a political in nature and resemble what the colonists do not want. Some of the grievances include, Britain not doing what is necessary for the colonies as a whole, governors not being allowed to pass laws, dissolved any Representatives of the colonists, and keeping armies in the colonists even though it was a time of peace.Near the end of this section, Jefferson, blames the British for all of the problems and even says "destroyed the lives of our people". This truly, represents the hatred to the British and the colonists stating they are their own people, and no longer relate to the British. 

Signing the Declaration

3. The Conclusion-
     The conclusion, explains how the United States can no longer live the way the British expect them to live. It also explains why there is no way the United States can be run by the British because of the distance and difference between the two nations. And finally, it specifically says, "United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, Free and Independent States;", completely declaring their independence from Great Britain.


 

LAD/Blog #2: Peter Zenger

1. Who was John Peter Zenger?

John Peter Zenger

      John Peter Zenger, a publisher of a newspaper in New York, came to North America from Germany in 1710. In his newspaper he was critical of the royal governor. Because he did this, he was sent to prison and at his trail he was defended by Andrew Hamilton. After Hamilton plead the case to the Jury, the Jury declared him not guilty. 

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

               The readers of the newspaper, believed that Zenger was speaking the truth, and not telling lies. This lead to the people questioning Zenger being charged. Hamiltion, spoke to the Jury directly, convincing them that he was in fact telling the truth, and if he was telling the truth, why should he be punished. With that, Zenger was not guilty.

3. What influence did his case have on American governmental tradition?
          Zenger's trail, had great influence on the American legal system, Lawyers now were seeing a new outcome for libel or the punishment for print cases. This case made the people and the lawyers see more and more libel cases having a new outcome.

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

            This trail, had a lasting significance on not only Americans, but it was the start to freedom of the press. Also, this case made more and more people write the truth, as they see it, in the paper without worrying about the consequence. After the trail, newspapers, all over, could now criticize whoever and whatever, as long as it was true.