LAD/Blog #26: William Jennings Bryan's "Cross of Gold" speech

Summary: Bryan's famous speech was delivered at the Democratic National Convention, trying to become the part nominee. This speech regarded his opinion of the silver to gold ratio. His plan would have the farmers in debit be aided by the increase of currency circulation. Bryan considered this to be humane and just cause. He believed that he represents the general people, with his goal for the coinage of silver. He also supports distributing wealth more and an income tax.

President McKinley supported the standardization of gold, while Bryan heavily opposed this.

LAD/Blog #25: The Dawes Act

The Dawes act gave the president the power to divide up Native American land. Farm land was divided among the Indian tribes based off age, gender roles, and more. The remaining land was given to American settlers. This was also an attempt to assimilate the Native Americans, therefore are the Native Americans were now US citizens under the same rights and protective laws.

This is similar to the Homestead Act 1862, which encouraged western migration by granting settlers with 160 acres of land.

LAD/Blog #24: Populist (People's) Party Platform

The Populist Party appeared in politics around the 1890s. The goal of this party was to put an end to the corruption happening in America, with the distribution of wealth. This party was put in place to help  with expansion, equality, and protection, vaulting the concept of Union.  Furthermore, they wanted the government to control railroads, reinforcing ideals sick as a free ballot. Lastly the party wanted support for individuals who had been Union soldiers, and shorter work days.

Trump can be seen as populist because he appeals to a broad range of voters by pushing both conservative and liberal ideas.

LAD/Blog #23: McKinley's War Message

Summary: McKinley's War Message was written in response to the Cuban revolution against Spain, a conflict that McKinley desperately wanted to end. In his letter to Congress, he addresses his opinion towards this battle which has been occurring for over half a century and required the US to continuously enforce neutrality laws, angering Americans. The war had many negative impacts on the US economy, such as hindering trade. McKinley thinks that he would side with Cuba, to preserve neutrality.

Washington also wanted neutrality, as it is what benefited the interests of America the best. 

LAD/Blog #22: Carnegie's Gospel of Wealth

In Carnegie's Gospel of Wealth, Carnegie debates the benefits of the controversy; Big Businesses. Some have agreed that powerful businessmen such as himself deserve the title Robber Baron. For example, Carnegie believed the capitalistic economy should have a gap between the rich and the poor, to provide incentives for market stimulation. This is Social Darwinism, that people have to outcompete others socially to prosper. Carnegie would advocate for the invisible hand and minimal government regulation, as laissez faire policy benefits him the best. Then, Carnegie proposed concepts that would promote the distribution of wealth in a better war. Carnegie reinforces that it is the rich's city to improve society with their money.

Golisano is like Carnegie, as both extremely rich individuals used their money to help people by giving money to build institutions, such as Golisano hospital or Carnegie Mellon University.

LAD/Blog #21: Emancipation Proclomation

Summary:

In the Emancipation Proclamation, Lincoln declares that all slaves held in any state will be declared free, and that the government will maintain these freedoms for these people. Furthermore, he claims that any state who maintains slavery is in an act of rebelling against America, listing these specific states. He then restates that the slaves in the rebellious states are free, and will be supported by armed forces and the government. Lincoln calls out to the newly freed slaves and tells them to retain from violent actions.

This reminds me of Frederick Douglass, as he pushed for the ideas in this proclamation, being an abolitionist himself.

LAD/Blog #20: Lincoln's 2nd Inaugural Address

Summary:

Lincoln's short Second Inaugural Speech declares in its opening that there is little new news to present to the nation, and that the progress of war was as well known to the general public as it was to   himself. He states that his first inaugural was devoted to saving the nation without war, but now war has come upon them because he wants to preserve the union. He then goes on to briefly discuss how slavery led to the war, and how the war has surpassed expectations on both sides. Lincoln concludes with the resolution to complete the war, preserving the union, with the help of God.

This reminds me of FDR's first inaugural, as both addresses/presidents wanted to help the nation without going to war.

LAD/Blog #19: The Dred Scott Decision

Summary:

In this case of Scott V. Sanford, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Sanford. The citizenship of Africans and whether or not the Missouri Compromise was constitutional was not considered in making this decision. This led to justice Roger Taney to be chosen. James Buchanan, the current president at the time, mentions this case in his inaugural address. When Buchanan finally gave the address, he discussed the issue of slavery as a whole, pertaining to the nation. He also noted that he would support the Supreme Court's verdict. Taney stated that free Africans in the north were not citizens of the United States, therefore restricting them from suing in American courts. Taney noted that the Missouri Compromise was unconstitutional, and decided that Dred Scott would remain a slave.

This reminds me of Marshall's rulings in his establishment cases, as both justices used the power of the Supreme Court to achieve their goals.

LAD/Blog #18: Sojouner Truth's "Ain't I a Woman" speech

Summary:

In this brief speech, Sojouner Truth starts off by saying how white women are treated very differently from black women. She describes her hardships, such as being whipped working in the fields, has 13 children who were sold off as a slaves, and has never felt comfort in America. Furthermore, she argues that even if she was intellectually inferior to the likelihood's of white people, she should deserve a free education anyways. Sojouner concludes by encouraging women to change the world in favor of their sex, and that the men better let the, or else.

This reminds me of the Seneca Falls Convention, as many people like Truth, abolitionist and women's right advocates alike attended, in pursuit of their goals. 

LAD/Blog #17: Frederick Douglass' "5th of July" speech

Summary:

Instead of giving a nice speech for the 4th of July, Frederick Douglas dismissed the idea of a joyous speech about liberty, and gave one about racism. He declares that while the white man celebrates his independence, the 4th of July only mocks black people, being oppressed by the people who celebrate this American holiday. Douglass states that for this reason the 4th of July is a dark day for all black slaves out in the States. He declares that with all his power, to denounce slavery, but will do this in ways that are right no just, in a civilized manor. He ends the speech by implying that the dark actions of American slavery are the vilest in human history.

Douglass reminds me of Parks, as the both stood up for what the believed in, campaigning for the equality of all black people in America.

LAD/Blog #16: Lincoln's Gettysburg Address

Summary:

Lincoln states that America was born and is based off liberty and equality, and that the men who died at Gettysburg were fighting for the perseverance of this nation. He saw the Civil war as a test to see how a nation of American ideals could be sustained. Lincoln goes on to discuss that a memorial to the fallen soldiers is not important at this time. Finally, Lincoln states that the men who died did not die in vain, and that their cause will be pursued, and their actions, deeply honored.

This reminds me of Washington's Farewell Address, as both Washington and Lincoln warn American about preserving the union and its beliefs.

LAD/Blog #15: Lincoln's First Inaugural Address

Summary:

Lincoln begins the address with the great issue of slavery. He states how he does not want to get involved with the states that already have slavery and believes whether a state will be free/slave should be the decision of the state itself. Lincoln strongly believes that this will maintain the balance of power among the federal/state government. He outlines that it is better to follow the ideals contained in the constitution. In addition, he says his main goal is to Preserve the Union. Lincoln believes that a state will not be allowed to secede by itself. The people of America are friends and not enemies.

Similar to the inaugural address,  Jefferson's inaugural address also tried to unify the country with the current major divides.

 

LAD/Blog #14: Calhoun's Speech on the Compromise of 1850

Summary:

Calhoun's speech outlined that there are different views of slavery and this debate could tear America apart. Calhoun goes on and says that the union needs to be preserved, and is curious where this dispute came from. He acknowledges that the north and south have contrasting views over the topic of slavery. Sectionalism was the problem at heart, as while the north advanced, the south suffered, paying for the taxes the mostly helped the north out. Also, the North had the majority in the house, giving the South very little power when it came to legislation. Above all, Calhoun says how tensions were increasing between the northern and Southern states due to the role of slavery. Finally, Calhoun talks about the issue of admitting California, being his duty.

The most recent presidential election, or any presidential election in nature reminds me of this, as people are split who should be president, just like they are split on if slavery is acceptable or not. 

LAD/Blog #13: Polk's War Message

The war message begins by stating that conflicts between the US and Mexico need to be addressed sooner or later. John Slidell was sent to Mexican territories, to discuss the killing of United States citizen on American land near the Texas boundary. The Mexican government did not like this, and did not listen. Before Slidell met with Mexican officials, the government was overthrown in the Mexican conflict. The leader of this movement was unwilling to negotiate with Slidell. To avoid invasion, Polk ordered US troops near the southern border at Texas/Mexico. The Mexicans attacked the American military, leaving with some US casualties. Mexico did not want peace with America, so war was the only option. Thus, the US had to go to war with Mexico to regain Texas, defending their territory.

This reminds me of the XYZ affair, as in both cases, America failed at effective diplomacy and was forced to go to war.

LAD/Blog #12: Seneca Falls Declaration of Sentiments

List the democratic principles at the start.
They are:

• Equality
• Inalienable Rights
• Consent of the governed

List 5 grievances.

Here are some:

He has compelled her to submit to laws, in the formation of which she had no voice.

He has taken from her all right in property, even to the wages she earns.

He has monopolized nearly all the profitable employments, and from those she is permitted to follow, she receives but a scanty remuneration.

He has denied her the facilities for obtaining a thorough education—all colleges being closed against her.

He has endeavored, in every way that he could to destroy her confidence in her own powers, to lessen her self-respect, and to make her willing to lead a dependent and abject life

Make note of the final resolution.

They are determined to achieve their goals to whatever necessary extent. 

The final copy was signed by 68 women and 32 men.  List 5 notable names (men and men) and make note of one woman who did not sign it.
Some are:

Frederick Douglass
Elizabeth Cady Stanton
S.E. Woodworth
Lucretia Mott
Jane C. Hunt

To my surprise, Susan B. Anthony did not sign the Declaration.

 One of your pictures should be of the statues of attendees on display at the Women's Rights National Historical Park just down the thruway in Seneca Falls, NY

The moment for civil rights and the movement for women's rights are similar in that both groups strived for equality under the law.

The Statues of Attendees

LAD/Blog #11: Monroe Doctrine

Summary:

The Monroe Doctrine is a speech given to congress by James Monroe regarding foreign policy. In the Doctrine, Monroe dictated his attitude towards Europe and South America, with much of it still true today. Monroe stated that imperialism from European powers was no longer acceptable in North/South America. Also, America was not to interfere with European military engagements, except if they had too, whatever suited the interest of America the best. For example, if America was attacked, this act of conflict would force America to defend itself, and declare war on the opposer. This basis for U.S. foreign policy showed the European powers that imperialism in the Western Hemisphere would no longer be acceptable, making America more of a power nation, making statements as such. Overall, the Monroe Doctrine evolved the Proclamation of Neutrality, showcasing the new nations strength, not tolerating further imperialism by foreign powers.

Political Cartoon of Monroe Doctrine

This reminds me of the Proclamation of Neutrality, with both statements being issues  of early foreign policy for the young America.

LAD/Blog #10: Jefferson's First Inaugural

Summary:

In the first paragraph, Jefferson expresses his gratitude to the American people for being elected to be the next president, while also stating that their will be struggles to overcome in the near future. He then goes on to state that he would like American's to put their differences aside and unite in the interests of the nation over self. Under the constitution, Jefferson stresses the liberties once not given under British governance. Next, Jefferson brings attention to the outlook of America, harping on the fact that the government will protect the rights of the people, along with the consent of the governed. Adding on, Jefferson states the freedoms granted under the Constitution, such as freedom of religion and the press, and a well disciplined militia. After that, Jefferson realizes that he will not be a perfect president, as no one can be a perfect president, and asks for forgiveness if and when he messes up. Finally, he sums up the address by saying he is ready to take office, and, "that Infinite Power which rules the destinies of the universe lead our councils to what is best, and give them a favorable issue for your peace and prosperity".

The inaugural address

This reminds me of Washington's farewell address, as both reference (and warn) the dangers of political parties.

Blog #9: Was Columbus a hero or villian?

Christopher Columbus looks scary!

       To a greater extent, Columbus is more a villain than a hero, due to this inhumane, cruel actions to the natives he encountered in his exploration of the new world. Being greedy, he was willing to do anything to achieve his means. This included cutting off the hands of Indian children that failed to collect gold for him. Actions such as this lead the Arawak population in the Bahama's to go as far as committing suicide, as the Indians saw death better than life under Columbus. Columbus also took native prisoners back to Spain, with conditions similar to the Middle Passage, with the Indians dying en route. It is clear that Columbus did not consider the natives he encountered "people", and very inferior, evident by his actions accounted for to this day. Although Indian mistreatment was common by many explorers around this time, it is still unacceptable to dehumanize one just for another's benefit. Thus, Columbus is a villain, who mistreated many during his active years of exploration
This reminds me of the Middle Passage, as both many Blacks and Indians died of the harsh travel across the Atlantic.

LAD/Blog #8: Washington's Farewell Address

Summary:

Washington's speech is after the American people wanted him to run for a third term for president. He declined, setting a precedent, but in his farewell address, warns the American people about the struggles to come in the future, and some broad goals of America that should always be kept in mind.

Three points:

• Abstain from getting involved with foreign affairs and wars when possible

• Keep religious thought separate from government affairs and ideals

• Allow amendments to the Constitution to occur when necessary, in order to satisfy changing needs in America

Washington's Farewell Address

This reminds me of Andrew Jackson's Farewell Address, as it contains similar warnings found in Washington's Farewell Address.

LAD/Blog #7: Washington's Proclamation of Neutrality

Summary:

The Proclamation of Neutrality (1783), being America's first foreign policy, states that the United States shall stay neutral and passive if two other powers such as Prussia and Great Britain engage in a war and ask for U.S. intervention (pretty much neutral in foreign affairs). Washington also warns against any fellow American trying to help an abroad power, threading criminal punishment as well.

This reminds me of the U.S. policy of neutrality during WWII before the Pearl Harbor attack, as American tried to stay neutral until they were forced to get involved in the war.

Proclamation of Neutrality 

LAD/Blog #6: Federalist Paper #10

1.  What is a faction?

A faction is an organization of people that share the same interest or political belief, in this case, factions are potential hazards to others in the community. Being unified and numerous, they have a voice and power over other organizations and the government, similar to a labor union.

2.  Are factions good or bad? 

A faction can be good in order to protect the rights of the individual and not have the government infringe upon these natural rights, but they can be bad if their interests jeopardize the public safety of others, being radical with destructive methods. They can be for good or for bad, but #10 refers more to the situation a bad faction introduces, and the problems involved with these groups.  

3.  Why are factions so difficult to eliminate?

Factions are difficult to eliminate, as if they have enough followers, this gives them power, and possibly more than what the government can handle for. If the faction is numerous enough, taking out a group of the members won't end the faction at all, just like cutting off the head of a hydra. Also, the act of eliminating a faction can be seen as a violation of the 1st amendment and liberty, within the U.S. constitution. 

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

Controlling the factious leaders could help control the faction as a whole if the leader is a respected figurehead within the organization. If the government can influence the factious leader its proposition, its effects would likely spread well into the organization.

This reminds me of labor unions during the Progressive Era, as both types of groups had to fight to obtain their agenda.

Federalist Paper #10

Blog #5: Republican Motherhood

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

The Revolutionary War greatly influenced Republican Motherhood, as after the movement for independence, Women's pride also accompanied this motion. Along with the growing sense of a new identity, women felt a new sense of importance in the household, to raise their children properly, one's containing the American Identity. (C)

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

Mothers, with their increased significance, had more pressure imposed on them to raise the next generation of Americans properly, unlike before, with patriotic Republican ideals instilled within them. Hence, if a child did not fit these values, the mother would be chastised and gone after. (D)

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

Republican Motherhood gave mothers a reformed, more valued place in society. With this gain of power, this set the trend in the direction of the women's right movements, as women's socialization increased around this time period, and continued to increase as time went on.

Mary Gibson Tilghman and her sons by Charles Willson Peale (1789)    

1.      Describe the setting.

A mother (possibly younger) and two of her sons that are dressed in dresses sit on their sofa at home.

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

Mary Gibson Tilghman is at the center of the portrait, possibly because she is the eldest and wisest, at the center and core of her sons lives. The women seems young and very pale, possibly being somewhat artificial to showcase post-colonial values. She is republican, as she does not wear expensive jewelry, but rather a bland dress.

3.     What values do her sons exhibit?

h

Tilghman's sons exhibit dependency on their mother, as the son on the left reaches for his mothers arm. They also seem well-mannored, as they smile and sit in a well presented position for the portrait.

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

Her arm holds one of her sons secure on her lap, possibly representing his lack of freedom and restraint from his mother, making him more dependent to her in the future. It could also symbolize protection from Tilghman, as she may try to protect their innocence. 

This reminds me of the women's right movement in the 1910's (Alice Paul pictured), as both occurrences gave an increased sense of unity to American Females, and more authority.