LAD #16: 1st Innaugural Address

Woops..mixed them up..

Right before his first term, Lincoln made this speech. He starts with the statement saying that he knows the south is upset with his election, as a Republican. He the comforts them by saying that he has no intention to interfere with slavery. As a result of the long history of slavery, Lincoln believes that slaves would not do well on their own. When the majority of the population elected him, they knew how he would be as a president. He talks about states' rights by making a reference to the Constitution and the laws that favor them. He warrants safety and security to the Union and says that those who choose to speak out against the union will be considered a threat to the nation's well being. He says that people have to interpret the Constitution in certain ways and the majority of the people will decide in these issues over the Constitution. Without this ruling there would not be a democracy.

LAD #15: Emancipation Proclimation

This document was issued on January 1, 1863, and was a very important event. Lincoln, in this document, granted freedom to all salves in the rebellious states, stating that the executive branch and army would protect any free slaves and not harm any. It was issued for the Confederates and didn't grant freedom for salves in the borders states to keep their support. Slaves could also work and receive wages. Lincoln also declared the proclamation to be an act of justice and warranted by the Constitution.

LAD #14: Dred Scott Decision

Taney decided several things in the Dred Scott Decision that truly acted as a setback for the anti-slavery cause. Primarily, he decided that Blacks, who are not citizens, could not sue in a federal court. He then stated that based on the Constitution, and the fact that it says the government could not deny their citizens their right to their "property", or slaves, that the Missouri Compromise was unconstitutional. He finally added that Scott was a slave because he brought suit in a slave state

LAD # 13: Lincoln's Secon Inaugural Address

Lincoln begins by stating how this inaugural address given four years ago was completely different from that which is occurring right now. He stated that the nation was on the brink of civil war, and now that war has finally come. He says that both sides were against war, but on side would resort to war if it mean the survival of the nation, while the other would let it come if it meant it would not perish. This shows how Lincoln is not blaming the war on any specific section of the country by is saying that the war was bound to happen. He discusses how the blacks made up 1/8 of the population, but was highly concentrated in the south, which was in his opinion the cause of the war. He says it is the nation's duty to repair the nation and make amends, so liberty and union can be preserved.

LAD#12: Lincoln's Gettysburg Address

In Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, he emphasizes greatly the importance of the union, and how it must be preserved. He begins by discussing how our forefather built the nation on liberty with the idea that all men are created equal. He later states how the field will be dedicated to the men who lost their lives and were fighting to preserve the union that our forefathers created. He says though, that the ground can not be truly dedicated unless the living, make an effort to end the war, and preserve the unity of which the nation was founded. He says it is necessary that the nation, which is governed for the people, and by the people, not be wiped off the earth.

LAD #11: Polk's War Message

President Polk's War Message justifies the US entering war with Mexico. He describes the methods that the Mexican military used in invading Texas territory, because Texas had previously applied for statehood and therefore the invasion is considered an attack on U.S. soil. He also describes what he went through in order to preserve American sovereignty by bringing together defensive forces from the area. Finally, Polk pleads with Congress to recognize the presence of a war and gives them his word that it would be short.

LAD#10: Calhouns Speech

In his speech, Calhoun focused around one central idea, which was the issue of slavery and that in order to preserve the union which was high priority for him, they would follow what ever the south demanded. He supported his argument by declaring the fact that the south was taxed more because of its "nature of its residents," which the taxes were then sent to the north. Following this statement he argued that no one agreed with anything the south had to say. He states that in order to preserve unity and happiness, the north and west should follow what the south wants. He also feels that while these situations can be dealt with, if they were to get out of hand, then they should secede. This statement probably had a great deal of influence over American society at this time. Throughout his speech Calhoun asks several questions then answers them which leads to another questions. This strange format was effective in getting his point across regarding preserving the Union by satisfying the south in many ways which are all listed at the end of his speech.

LAD #9: Seneca Falls

The Seneca Falls Convention, where a group of women got together and wrote the Seneca Falls Declaration of Sentiments and Resolutions, was originally fueled by the anti-slavery crusade, in which women were not a lot to take part of. The Declaration is split into two parts, one being the Declaration of Sentiments, where the women state all the unjust laws and social regulations that are demanded of women, and the other part are the Resolutions, which provide substantial ideas and answers to the many social problems concerning women. In the beginning of the Declaration, the women begin with an extremely similar opening to the Declaration of Independence, with the statement of, "We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men and women are created equal..." They continue to list problems with men towards women such as the men not allowing women to exercise her inalienable rights, forcing her to obey laws she does not have any say in, destroying her confidence in her own powers. They end the Declaration stating their desire for continual similar conventions. The second part of the Declaration, called Resolutions, the women provide answers to the several social problems previously stated, primarily viewing women as man's equal, allowance of the same amount of virtue, delicacy, and refinement of behavior that is required of women in the social state to man, and that women should have the ability to carry out their own inalienable rights. It is finally concluded with the statement saying that women was created in the same way by the Creator as man was, and she should have equal rights to those of man.

LAD #8: Monroe Doctrine

The Monroe Doctrine was stated during Monroe's seventh annual message to Congress on December 2nd, 1823. Monroe begins by discussing the negotiations between the United States and the Russian Imperial Government. They were discussing the boundaries of the United States, especially in the northwest coast of the continent. Monroe also states that similar negotiations were continuing with Great Britain and were running smoothly. He states, "as a principle in which the rights and the interests of the United States are involved, that the American continents, by the free and independent condition which they have assumed and maintain, are henceforth not to be considered as subjects for future colonization by and European powers." This statement further clarifies his position, and the United States' position, in the negotiations between the European superpowers. Monroe later beings to speak about the issue in Spain and Portugal and clarifies that the United States supports the "liberty and happiness of the fellow men on that side of the Atlantic," but will also not go to war unless America's rights are "invaded or seriously menaced." Monroe also emphasizes the point that if any of the European superpowers attempts to impose their form of government of this side of the globe then the United States will consider that dangerous to the peace and safety of the nation and will take action. The issue in Spain and Portugal is a prime example, according to Monroe, how the United States remained neutral, and demonstrates how unsettled Europe still is, proving neutrality to be the best solution to remain out of foreign affairs. Monroe closes by stating, "It is the true policy of the United States to leave the parties to themselves, in hope that other powers will pursue the same course."

LAD: Jefferson's First Inaugural Address

In Jefferson's first inaugural address given on March 4th, 1801, he thanks the nation for voting for him, and realizes the magnitude of the responsibilities he has acquired. He states that he has "shrunk from the contemplation," and has "humbled himself." He later goes into pre-thanking the legislatures he will be working with and will always look to them for guidance and support. He also uses metaphor, comparing the United States to a ship, saying that between him and Congress, they will "be able to steer with safety the vessel in which we are all embarked amidst the conflicting elements of a troubled world." Jefferson later states the importance of the democratic principles instituted in the United States. He emphasizes the point that the majority will prevail in a reasonably fashion, and that the minority will always be guaranteed their rights. Jefferson continues on thanking the people of the United States, but also warns them that they will not always agree with his decisions. He states his errors will never be intentional ones, and he asks for them to comprehend this fact. He later asks for the support against others who feel their errors are never wrong. Jefferson leads into his final words, stating that he is going to undertake the position of the presidency with dedication, yet he will step down whenever the people feel it is necessary. In other words, when the people vote against him, he will gladly step down.

LAD: Columbus

Columbus should be considered a hero not a villain. This is because of his many great accomplishments in his life. For Spain he discovered many important landmarks in the world during the exploration era, such as the Americas. Columbus set sail for months searching for new land and an all water route to India. However, he found the great landmass of America. This may have been a coincidental occurrence but it was a great one, accomplished by a successful sailor and explorer. Arguments are made regarding Columbus's diseases and slavery practices that he brought over with him from the Old World to the New World, however, it was destined to happen, whether it was Columbus or the next explorer. Therefore Columbus should get credit for discovering America, and should not be looked upon as a villain for bringing disease and slavery to the New World.

LAD#6: Washington's Farewell Address

Washington's Farewell Address focuses on the idea of neutrality as well but more along the lines of other issues, which have become amendments to the constitution. Written in 1796, Washington starts of by saying he does not want to be considered for a third term in the White House. He says, "I will decline being considered among the number of those out of whom a choice is to be made." He feels that staying in office for more than two terms is too many, and he urges others to follow in his footsteps. Another major point he addresses is the issue of neutrality. He warns to stay clear of foreign alliances and not to get involved with world affairs. Although he stresses to remain neutral, he also urges the United States to remain peaceful with other nations. This is seen when he says, "Observe good faith and justice towards all nations; cultivate peace and harmony with all." He emphasizes the importance of religion, which will help the nations success. He stresses trust within the administration, as well as public education. He feels that since the government is being run for the people that they should be educated enough to be able to run it. Ending his speech, Washington stresses his pride in America, saying things such as, "The name of American, which belongs to you in your national capacity, must always exalt the just pride of patriotism more than any appellation derived from local discriminations."

LAD#5: Washington's Proclamation of Neutrality

Washington's proclamation of neutrality was signed in Philadelphia on April 22, 1793. Washington recognizes the state of war between Austria, Prussia, Sardinia, Great Britain, and the United Netherlands against France. He says that the United Sates should "with sincerity and good faith" stay out of the wars, and remain neutral toward the European powers. He also warns the United States citizens to remain neutral and try to not get themselves involved in war with other powerful countries. Washington addresses, "I exhort and warn the citizens of the United States carefully to avoid all acts of proceedings what so ever, which may in any manner tend to contravene such disposition." Washington says that if anyone in the United States should try to start a war with the "Powers," they will not receive protection, and will be punished for going against the law.

LAD#4: Federalist

1) Why are factions so difficult to eliminate?
Factions are so difficult to eliminate because they involve getting rid of people's right and liberties. According to the document, factions can only be eliminated by removing its causes, or controlling its affects. In order to remove a faction, you would have to get rid of the liberties which are "essential to existence," or by forcing every citizen to have the same values, opinion and interests. Obviously these are not easily removed due to their important nature in a democracy. The document also stresses the point that factions are built into human nature, and that it is extremely difficult to change or alter the human nature of a person.
2) If factions cannot be removed then how can they be controlled?
The document discusses the controlling of factions in two different scenarios. The first scenario is if the faction lies in the minority group. This can then be controlled by simply having the majority of people in a democracy, vote down the minority faction. On the other hand, if the faction lies in the majority group, then they should be prompted and hopefully convince their faction is wrong by the minority group, and will hopefully relinquish the faction. According to the document, if there is a pure democracy, factions can rarely be controlled or removed, due to the smalled amount of people and the idea that many values will ultimately travel to the majority party, thus making it harder to remove or control faction.

Revolution Article

1: I did not know that there were as many as 620,000 soldiers that died in the Civil War. I figure there were thousands who died in the Civil War, but I did not think it was that astonishing of a number. I started reading this article and this number popped out immediately to me as something new and surprising. This gives a whole new perspective about the Civil War to me. I thought it was a costly war but not as costly as 620,000.
2: I did not know that the Civil War started off as a war to save the Union and ended up as a revolution to end slavery. I knew that they were trying to save the Union prior to the war and during, however, I did not know that they started the war to save the Union. I was under the impression that the war itself started over the fight to abolish slavery.
3: I did not know that most of the participants, civilians, politicians, and other people living during the revolutionary era had died within a decade of the jubilee in 1826 leaving it virtually impossible for the stories of the revolution to be told and for the history recorded to be accurate. That is why most historians according the article mostly talk about the political aspects about the war, such as the signing of the declaration, and the constitutional convention, rather than the hard fought battles of the war itself.
4: I had no idea that during the Revolutionary War, our country lead an invasion against Canada. I also did not know that during this invasion they fought through harsh winter conditions causing a shortage of food. This lead them to have to eat pet dogs, and cook other things like boiling shoes, according to the article.
5: I did not know that a Continental soldier had the odds of dying in battle of 1 in 10 but if captured had a 50-50 chance that he would not survive being captured. This surprised me because I thought that being lined up and shot at in a battle would bring a greater likelihood of death than captured. I figured you would have a better shot of being rescued or surviving in captivity long enough.

LAD #3: Declaration of Independence

Summarize the Declaration of Independence in 3 parts (1. democratic principles, 2.list a handful of grievances, and 3. the conclusion.)

The Declaration of Independence begins with saying that if one people are dissolving the political bonds between them and another people, they should state the reasons why. Preceding this statement the document continues to say that every person should have the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, which is one reason why the English colonies are breaking away from England. They also say how people have the right to abolish their existing government if it is not being run by the people or not providing basic rights. This right however, cannot be for some small act, and cannot be justified. The writers of this document proceed to say how the King of England has had a poor history of injuries, which is why they wish to be free. They then continue to state their grievances towards the King and the British government. Their problems began with the standing military in the colonies during peace times, refusal to pass laws to benefit the colonies, passing laws that do not benefit the colonies, corruption of the judicial system, imposing taxes, fundamentally destroying their governments and many others. The conclusion contains the signatures of the writers and their pledge towards their support for the declaration. This is evident in the statement in the conclusion, "We, therefore, the representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the name and by the authority of the good people of these colonies solemnly publish and declare, that they United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent states." This concluding statement illustrates the importance of the writers statements, their determination, and their commitment to the declaration and their freedom.

LAD#2: Zenger Trials

1. Who was John Peter Zenger?
Zenger was a German who was in New York in the early 18^th century. He was a printer and editor of the NY Weekly Journal.

2. What was the controversy over his charges? Talk about Hamilton's defense.
After opposing Governor Cosby in his paper Zenger was charged with sedition libel. The stories written by Zenger about Cosby were very critical and made him so livid that he threw Zenger in Jail. His trail was a quick decision by the jury because of his stories. The trial caused problems and brought up an issue of freedom of press because they were convicting him of voicing his own opinion in the newspaper.

3. What influence did his case have on American governmental tradition?
This case did have a big impact on American governmental tradition because Zenger was found innocent because the stories he posted were found to be true. This started a controversial debate against judicial dominance in libel cases. It allowed people to speak freely.

4. What is the lasting significance of his trial? Explain.
The trials impact lingered for years because it was a point in history where the freedom of press was innovated. Publishers and editors were finally allowed to speak their mind without being punished.

LAD #1: Mayflower Compact and Fundamental Orders of CT

1) What concepts are included in the Mayflower Compact?

The Compact established the start of a democracy in the colonies. The people were the source of power in the colonies. The contract was signed by people who all agreed on obeying the laws set by the government to allow them to survive and to collaborate and work as one community in order to be successful in America. The Contract also mentioned several times the idea of keeping loyalty to King James. The Mayflower Compact basically was a contract made to establish a democracy in the colonies as well as to keep a sense of loyalty towards England and the king.

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

When the Compact said that they were loyal subjects to their Sovereign King it illustrates that connection to the “Old World,” or England. The people who signed the Compact wanted to keep a loyalty and connection to the “Old Word;” England. They wanted to stay honorable towards England with a great deal of respect and to establish a government system that was fair and similar. The signers all meet and agreed to abide by the new government so that the country would run smoothly. It shows the colonists desire to establish a new society but still stay true to their English routs.

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

The Orders were basically a document establishing the structure of the new government in the colonies. It was different from the compact because it was an actual constitutional document as suppose to the compact which was a statement or agreement of their plan for the colony. The compact was not very specific in its wishes but the basic ideas of the two documents were very similar. The FOC was the official structure and establishment of the ideas expressed in the Mayflower Compact. The FOC was very important because it did not mention England, and it just described a government run by the colonies on their own without England’s help.

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

The colonists decided to make this constitution because before the FOC, Connecticut had already created a government, however Thomas Hooker in 1638 forced the Courts to lay down some rules that they had written down on a document. After this they were prompted to establish a written Constitution like the FOC because they wanted order and a democracy under the rule of the people.

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 FOC protect against a single person coming into powers because there was an annual voting system for Governor in Connecticut. There were also limitations on how long an official could stay in power. All men who were free in Connecticut were given the ability to vote under a democracy. Also every town was allowed to sent deputies to General Court. This was established in case a Governor or other official was becoming too powerful then people could meet in General court and petition.

LAD #2

1. Who was John Peter Zenger?
Zenger was a German who was in New York in the early 18^th century. He was a printer and editor of the NY Weekly Journal.

2. What was the controversy over his charges? Talk about Hamilton's defense.
After opposing Governor Cosby in his paper Zenger was charged with sedition libel. The stories written by Zenger about Cosby were very critical and made him so livid that he threw Zenger in Jail. His trail was a quick decision by the jury because of his stories. The trial caused problems and brought up an issue of freedom of press because they were convicting him of voicing his own opinion in the newspaper.

3. What influence did his case have on American governmental tradition?
This case did have a big impact on American governmental tradition because Zenger was found innocent because the stories he posted were found to be true. This started a controversial debate against judicial dominance in libel cases. It allowed people to speak freely.

4. What is the lasting significance of his trial? Explain.
The trials impact lingered for years because it was a point in history where the freedom of press was innovated. Publishers and editors were finally allowed to speak their mind without being punished.

LAD #1: Mayflower Compact and Fundamental Orders of CT

1) What concepts are included in the Mayflower Compact?

The Compact established the start of a democracy in the colonies. The people were the source of power in the colonies. The contract was signed by people who all agreed on obeying the laws set by the government to allow them to survive and to collaborate and work as one community in order to be successful in America. The Contract also mentioned several times the idea of keeping loyalty to King James. The Mayflower Compact basically was a contract made to establish a democracy in the colonies as well as to keep a sense of loyalty towards England and the king.

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

When the Compact said that they were loyal subjects to their Sovereign King it illustrates that connection to the “Old World,” or England. The people who signed the Compact wanted to keep a loyalty and connection to the “Old Word;” England. They wanted to stay honorable towards England with a great deal of respect and to establish a government system that was fair and similar. The signers all meet and agreed to abide by the new government so that the country would run smoothly. It shows the colonists desire to establish a new society but still stay true to their English routs.

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

The Orders were basically a document establishing the structure of the new government in the colonies. It was different from the compact because it was an actual constitutional document as suppose to the compact which was a statement or agreement of their plan for the colony. The compact was not very specific in its wishes but the basic ideas of the two documents were very similar. The FOC was the official structure and establishment of the ideas expressed in the Mayflower Compact. The FOC was very important because it did not mention England, and it just described a government run by the colonies on their own without England’s help.

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

The colonists decided to make this constitution because before the FOC, Connecticut had already created a government, however Thomas Hooker in 1638 forced the Courts to lay down some rules that they had written down on a document. After this they were prompted to establish a written Constitution like the FOC because they wanted order and a democracy under the rule of the people.

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 FOC protect against a single person coming into powers because there was an annual voting system for Governor in Connecticut. There were also limitations on how long an official could stay in power. All men who were free in Connecticut were given the ability to vote under a democracy. Also every town was allowed to sent deputies to General Court. This was established in case a Governor or other official was becoming too powerful then people could meet in General court and petition.