The Infamous Boss Tweed
Go to the following link:
http://www.hippocampus.org/hippocampus.php/course_locator.php?course=US History II&lesson=46&topic=1&width=800&height=684&topicTitle=The%20Tweed%20Ring%20and%20Machine%20Politics&skinPath=http://www.hippocampus.org/hippocampus.skins/default
Watch the video presentation (there's a text version as well if you are having trouble getting the video to play) and respond to the following questions:
1) What are the similarities and differences between the political practices of the Gilded Age and today? (mention at least two of each)
2) Choose one of the three "explore" topics listed on the left side of the lesson (you have to start the lesson before they are available) and answer the question asked.
3) How did the rise of political "machines" cause the local, state, and federal governments to become involved in social welfare? Can you imagine a better solution?
This assignment will doubtless take you some time and effort - but I think you will enjoy the "Pre-Godfather" history of New York. Your essay should be at least 200 words long, with responses totalling 150 words. Last week's assignment was supurb - keep up the good work!
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Sunday, December 11, 2011
December 11, 2011
No homework this week - focus on preparing for your exams. See you back here after Christmas!
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Homework 7, Due December 9, 2011
The Infamous Boss Tweed
Go to the following link:
http://www.hippocampus.org/hippocampus.php/course_locator.php?course=US History II&lesson=46&topic=1&width=800&height=684&topicTitle=The%20Tweed%20Ring%20and%20Machine%20Politics&skinPath=http://www.hippocampus.org/hippocampus.skins/default
Watch the video presentation (there's a text version as well if you are having trouble getting the video to play) and respond to the following questions:
1) What are the similarities and differences between the political practices of the Gilded Age and today? (mention at least two of each)
2) Choose one of the three "explore" topics listed on the left side of the lesson (you have to start the lesson before they are available) and answer the question asked.
3) How did the rise of political "machines" cause the local, state, and federal governments to become involved in social welfare? Can you imagine a better solution?
This assignment will doubtless take you some time and effort but I'm sure you'll find it interesting. Your essay should be at least 200 words long, with responses totalling 150 words. Last week's assignment was supurb (those who did it...)- keep up the good work!
Go to the following link:
http://www.hippocampus.org/hippocampus.php/course_locator.php?course=US History II&lesson=46&topic=1&width=800&height=684&topicTitle=The%20Tweed%20Ring%20and%20Machine%20Politics&skinPath=http://www.hippocampus.org/hippocampus.skins/default
Watch the video presentation (there's a text version as well if you are having trouble getting the video to play) and respond to the following questions:
1) What are the similarities and differences between the political practices of the Gilded Age and today? (mention at least two of each)
2) Choose one of the three "explore" topics listed on the left side of the lesson (you have to start the lesson before they are available) and answer the question asked.
3) How did the rise of political "machines" cause the local, state, and federal governments to become involved in social welfare? Can you imagine a better solution?
This assignment will doubtless take you some time and effort but I'm sure you'll find it interesting. Your essay should be at least 200 words long, with responses totalling 150 words. Last week's assignment was supurb (those who did it...)- keep up the good work!
Monday, November 28, 2011
Homework 6, Due December 2, 2011
The Gilded Age
Much of our class discussion this week will hinge on one of the most important topics in any society: the fair distribution of wealth (and since, in every modern society wealth equals power, we can truly say the basis of all class structure in the modern era). In the last century all of the previous social structures were swept away by changes in technology which changed the way that people worked and related to each other. In the confusion that accompanies such changes all the relationships had be re-imagined, based on the question "What is fair?"
Consider this: in every business transaction, there are usually three participants. There is the entrepreneur, the worker, and the customer. All three desire to get the best deal they can; the entrepreneur claims that he or she deserves the profits because of the creativity and risk that went into providing the good or service. The worker wants part of the profits as well because he or she is doing the work, and of course the customer wants a good deal (ie, doesn't want to pay enough to make both the entrepreneur and worker happy). Let's get specific: we recently escaped the spector of a basketball season with no NBA. Fortunately (for the basketball-addicted) a profit sharing scheme was agreed upon between owners and players and the season will get underway on Christmas day. Now, who deserves to benefit from the spectacle of professional basketball the most? The owners? Kobe and LeBron? And what about the fan sitting in the bleachers?
For years arguments have been made the the owners (entrepreneurs) are either the most important part of the equation, or the least important part of the equation. Now, obviously, this homework assignment isn't about basketball, but about the struggle between big businesses and the working people at the end of the nineteenth century. What do you think? Who deserves the biggest part of the profits - the owners or the workers? And don't make the argument that both of them make enough, because I could have just as easily used an example of a fastfood restaurant owner, worker, and customer. Here are the questions I want you to address:
1) In the context of this discussion, what is fair?
2) How can that fairness be established without unconstitutional government intervention in the workplace? In other words, what kind of agreement must be reached between owners and workers and how can it be maintained for the long-term?
3) Most importantly, what would happen if either side of the equation (owners/workers) were to be too weak to effectively bargain with the other?
In addition, go to the link http://www.hippocampus.org/US%20History%20II and choose two of the following lessons under the "Gilded Age" heading to review and use as evidence in your essays:
Corruption in Business and Government
Entrepreneurs
The Government Steps In
Workers in America
Union Organizations
Major Strikes
As always, 200 words, 150 words of response, due on Friday and Sunday, respectively. Don't put this off to the last minute!
Much of our class discussion this week will hinge on one of the most important topics in any society: the fair distribution of wealth (and since, in every modern society wealth equals power, we can truly say the basis of all class structure in the modern era). In the last century all of the previous social structures were swept away by changes in technology which changed the way that people worked and related to each other. In the confusion that accompanies such changes all the relationships had be re-imagined, based on the question "What is fair?"
Consider this: in every business transaction, there are usually three participants. There is the entrepreneur, the worker, and the customer. All three desire to get the best deal they can; the entrepreneur claims that he or she deserves the profits because of the creativity and risk that went into providing the good or service. The worker wants part of the profits as well because he or she is doing the work, and of course the customer wants a good deal (ie, doesn't want to pay enough to make both the entrepreneur and worker happy). Let's get specific: we recently escaped the spector of a basketball season with no NBA. Fortunately (for the basketball-addicted) a profit sharing scheme was agreed upon between owners and players and the season will get underway on Christmas day. Now, who deserves to benefit from the spectacle of professional basketball the most? The owners? Kobe and LeBron? And what about the fan sitting in the bleachers?
For years arguments have been made the the owners (entrepreneurs) are either the most important part of the equation, or the least important part of the equation. Now, obviously, this homework assignment isn't about basketball, but about the struggle between big businesses and the working people at the end of the nineteenth century. What do you think? Who deserves the biggest part of the profits - the owners or the workers? And don't make the argument that both of them make enough, because I could have just as easily used an example of a fastfood restaurant owner, worker, and customer. Here are the questions I want you to address:
1) In the context of this discussion, what is fair?
2) How can that fairness be established without unconstitutional government intervention in the workplace? In other words, what kind of agreement must be reached between owners and workers and how can it be maintained for the long-term?
3) Most importantly, what would happen if either side of the equation (owners/workers) were to be too weak to effectively bargain with the other?
In addition, go to the link http://www.hippocampus.org/US%20History%20II and choose two of the following lessons under the "Gilded Age" heading to review and use as evidence in your essays:
Corruption in Business and Government
Entrepreneurs
The Government Steps In
Workers in America
Union Organizations
Major Strikes
As always, 200 words, 150 words of response, due on Friday and Sunday, respectively. Don't put this off to the last minute!
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Bonus Opportunity - Due November 25, 2011
As this week is going to be a busy one for everyone, I think this would be a great time for an optional assignment. Here's how it works: if you do the assignment I will exchange a zero on a previous assignment with a 100. If you have done late assingments and received a score that is less than 100 (such as a 50 for a REALLY late assignment) I will add up to 100 points for doing this assignment. For example, if you have two previous assignments from this quarter for which you have received 50s I will change both grades to 100s. Pretty cool, huh? Here's what's up:
Next week's assignment will focus on the changes in America's economy and social structure at the dawn of the twentieth century. However, in lecture we will also discuss the change in America's standing in the international community (Age of Empire) and the acquisition of new territories through war and annexation. Your assignment is something of a geography exercise. You are to research an American territory and report back on your findings. Here's what I want to see:
1) A brief summary of the territory's history;
2) An explanation of the current governmental structure;
3) and details about the people and culture.
Answer the question, "What do you see as being the future of U.S. territories?"
Your essay schould be at least 200 words long and include reference citations. Respond to at least two other posts with at total of at least 150 words. Thanks and God bless!
Next week's assignment will focus on the changes in America's economy and social structure at the dawn of the twentieth century. However, in lecture we will also discuss the change in America's standing in the international community (Age of Empire) and the acquisition of new territories through war and annexation. Your assignment is something of a geography exercise. You are to research an American territory and report back on your findings. Here's what I want to see:
1) A brief summary of the territory's history;
2) An explanation of the current governmental structure;
3) and details about the people and culture.
Answer the question, "What do you see as being the future of U.S. territories?"
Your essay schould be at least 200 words long and include reference citations. Respond to at least two other posts with at total of at least 150 words. Thanks and God bless!
Monday, November 14, 2011
Homework 5, Due Nov 19, 2011
Changing Landscape in America
As we study an often over-looked period of US history, you will learn that the 35 years between the end of the Civil War and the dawn of the twentieth century were an important era that changed America from an unimportant "new world" country to a major player on the international scene. Our economy transformed from a simple agrarian society to a complex industrial powerhouse, and politically the US went from Washington's isolationism to the US Age of Empire. Literally millions of immigrants poured into the country, changing the way that Americans lived, worked, looked and sounded. As we've noted in lecture, it was also a time to readjust race relations in America post-slavery, especially in the South.
All of these things and more make this period an important one for understanding the true identity of America. Follow the link http://www.hippocampus.org/US%20History%20II and choose any three of the titles under "Changing Landscape" to read and review as your homework assignment. Do the reading and watch the videos then report back what you find. The requirements for this assignment are exactly the same as all of those before. Do your best!
As we study an often over-looked period of US history, you will learn that the 35 years between the end of the Civil War and the dawn of the twentieth century were an important era that changed America from an unimportant "new world" country to a major player on the international scene. Our economy transformed from a simple agrarian society to a complex industrial powerhouse, and politically the US went from Washington's isolationism to the US Age of Empire. Literally millions of immigrants poured into the country, changing the way that Americans lived, worked, looked and sounded. As we've noted in lecture, it was also a time to readjust race relations in America post-slavery, especially in the South.
All of these things and more make this period an important one for understanding the true identity of America. Follow the link http://www.hippocampus.org/US%20History%20II and choose any three of the titles under "Changing Landscape" to read and review as your homework assignment. Do the reading and watch the videos then report back what you find. The requirements for this assignment are exactly the same as all of those before. Do your best!
Monday, November 7, 2011
Homework 4, Due Nov 11, 2011
In class this week we will discuss the role of habeas corpus in Civil War history and, throughout the remainder of the year, will see instances when the government is tempted to suspend (or even in rare cases ignore) the rights guaranteed in the U.S. Constitution. The argument for such an action is usually that it is easier to "get the job done" when the "red tape" has been removed. While we, as Christians, are biblically called upon to obey the laws of the land, it is important for the preservation of liberty that, as citizens, we are aware of our rights and that we hold our leaders accountable to the Constitution.
Decisions that are rendered by the U.S. Supreme Court are extremely important because it is almost impossible to undue the legal restrictions and precedents they establish. In the years following the Civil War, not only were there cities and homes to restore, but also a certain balance of power that needed to be corrected. Actions taken by the Lincoln administration in the time of war were feared to pose a real danger to individual liberty once the war was over. For this reason Congress and the Court, in their separate ways, attempted to reform American government.
In this week's assignment I'd like you to research a Supreme Court case entitled "Ex parte Milligan, 1866" (filed usually under Milligan, ex parte). Lambdin Milligan was undoubtedly a criminal, and something had to be done about his scheme, but the Court ruled (9-0, which is very rare) that the Lincoln administration had made a mistake. It will take some thought to sort out why the Court (led by Lincoln-appointed Salmon P. Chase) disagreed with Lincoln's handling of the situation.
Write an essay (200 word minimum) that explains what the dispute was about, and make a suggestion as to how the need of the government to provide for the safety of society can, in such situations, be balanced with the constitutional guarantees of individual liberty.
As you might have noticed, this is a topic that still matters today. For 10 bonus points on the next test, in addition to the homework assignment, write an essay (turn it in to me in class) that compares and contrasts the Milligan case with the case Hamdan v. Rumsfeld, 2005.
Good luck and God bless! Don't forget to site your sources and to leave 150 words of comments on the work of others.
Decisions that are rendered by the U.S. Supreme Court are extremely important because it is almost impossible to undue the legal restrictions and precedents they establish. In the years following the Civil War, not only were there cities and homes to restore, but also a certain balance of power that needed to be corrected. Actions taken by the Lincoln administration in the time of war were feared to pose a real danger to individual liberty once the war was over. For this reason Congress and the Court, in their separate ways, attempted to reform American government.
In this week's assignment I'd like you to research a Supreme Court case entitled "Ex parte Milligan, 1866" (filed usually under Milligan, ex parte). Lambdin Milligan was undoubtedly a criminal, and something had to be done about his scheme, but the Court ruled (9-0, which is very rare) that the Lincoln administration had made a mistake. It will take some thought to sort out why the Court (led by Lincoln-appointed Salmon P. Chase) disagreed with Lincoln's handling of the situation.
Write an essay (200 word minimum) that explains what the dispute was about, and make a suggestion as to how the need of the government to provide for the safety of society can, in such situations, be balanced with the constitutional guarantees of individual liberty.
As you might have noticed, this is a topic that still matters today. For 10 bonus points on the next test, in addition to the homework assignment, write an essay (turn it in to me in class) that compares and contrasts the Milligan case with the case Hamdan v. Rumsfeld, 2005.
Good luck and God bless! Don't forget to site your sources and to leave 150 words of comments on the work of others.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Homework 3, Due Noveber 4, 2011
This week I have decided to use the assignment I previously gave as a bonus opportunity. Last week's response rate was improved, but still some class members are failing to complete the assignment at all or on time. Remember how important the homework component is to your grade!
This assignment continues our study of the Civil War, focusing on the events of the war and individuals who participated from the state of Kentucky. Several significant battles were fought in the commonwealth, and soldiers from Kentucky fought on both sides of the war.
Although we typically say that Kentucky was a slave state that did not secede, in truth, there was an attempt (unsuccessful) at secession, that would have made Kentucky a member of the Conferedate States of America. Near Somerset the Battle of Mill Springs was important in securing Union control of the Ohio Valley, and the Battle of Perryville was one of the hardest-fought battles of the war. You already know that both Civil War presidents (Lincoln and Davis) were born in Kentucky, and some families had members to fight on opposite sides (such as the Breckinridges - dad and one son were Union generals, another son was a Confederate general).
General Grant first commanded in Kentucky, as did Gen. William T. Sherman (who had a nervous breakdown while overseeing Louisville, and was sent home to recuperate when he imagined that the Confederates were teaming with Native Americans (none of whom lived anywhere near Kentucky) for a massive attack. He was the laughing-stock of the country when he requested 20,000 soldiers to protect Louisville against Indians!
These are just a few of the amazing Civil War stories and individuals related to Kentucky that played a major role in the war. Your assignment this week is to research a Civil War person or event related to our state and post an essay revealing your findings. Unlike previous weeks I am not giving you a specific web site, so please cite your references. Did your family play a role in Kentucky Civil War history? That would be a great story to share!
This assignment continues our study of the Civil War, focusing on the events of the war and individuals who participated from the state of Kentucky. Several significant battles were fought in the commonwealth, and soldiers from Kentucky fought on both sides of the war.
Although we typically say that Kentucky was a slave state that did not secede, in truth, there was an attempt (unsuccessful) at secession, that would have made Kentucky a member of the Conferedate States of America. Near Somerset the Battle of Mill Springs was important in securing Union control of the Ohio Valley, and the Battle of Perryville was one of the hardest-fought battles of the war. You already know that both Civil War presidents (Lincoln and Davis) were born in Kentucky, and some families had members to fight on opposite sides (such as the Breckinridges - dad and one son were Union generals, another son was a Confederate general).
General Grant first commanded in Kentucky, as did Gen. William T. Sherman (who had a nervous breakdown while overseeing Louisville, and was sent home to recuperate when he imagined that the Confederates were teaming with Native Americans (none of whom lived anywhere near Kentucky) for a massive attack. He was the laughing-stock of the country when he requested 20,000 soldiers to protect Louisville against Indians!
These are just a few of the amazing Civil War stories and individuals related to Kentucky that played a major role in the war. Your assignment this week is to research a Civil War person or event related to our state and post an essay revealing your findings. Unlike previous weeks I am not giving you a specific web site, so please cite your references. Did your family play a role in Kentucky Civil War history? That would be a great story to share!
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Homework 2, Due October 28, 2011
Congratulations to the Lady Cougars JV Volleyball team for being state runners-up! Your hard work and dedication have paid off with a successful season. This week's assignment is a little different - an opportunity to explore the national political frontier. As we study US history we have spent a great deal of time discussing the men who have served as president and the impact they have had. In just over a year the US will hold the next presidential election and the campaign to win your support and confidence is well under way.
While many people will run for president you are likely to hear of only two names that will be on the ballot - the Democratic and Republican party nominees. Because the Democrats have a candidate that is already president (called an incumbent candidate) they have been raising money and making plans to re-elect President Barack Obama. The Republicans, on the other hand, are preparing for a long set of "primary elections" and "caucuses" (which will begin in January in Iowa and New Hampshire) in which they will chose a candidate to oppose President Obama in November 2012. There are very few differences between "primaries" and "caucuses" - they are basically elections in which only Republicans may participate because the winner becomes the representative of the Republican party. Of course, any Democrat could have chosen to challenge President Obama in Democratic "primaries" but no one has because it is very unlikely that he or she could win.
In the early days of American democracy candidates did not campaign - no tours, speeches, commercials, baby-kissing (a strange political custom), etc. Nowadays running for president is basically a two-year commitment - one that will end in failure for most candidates. They are constantly in front of the cameras and travelling through the states that have early primaries in order to gain support. In recent years the use of the internet by presidential candidates has revolutionized the process. Candidates raise money and share their ideas in order to give voters an opportunity to know them better.
Your research assignment this week focuses on the candidates' websites. I want you to chose two candidates and visit their websites and report back on your findings. Answer these questions: What did you learn about the lives of the candidates? Why do they want to be president? What are their plans for America? You do not have to make any statement about your own sentiments or support/opposition to a candidate but you may do so IF you can do it in a mature and knowledgeable manner. (Failure to communicate respectfully can result in disciplinary action and a loss of credit on this assignment).
While this assignment is meant to encourage you to study candidates in order to make informed decisions it is also an opportunity for you to practice respectful dialogue. It is important to remember how valuable the opinions of others are and to state your own opinions in such a way that people will be inclined to listen to you rather than reject what you have to say. Remember that for full credit you must write 200 words and leave responses totaling at least 150 words regarding the essays of at least two other students.
Follow the link http://2012.presidential-candidates.org/ to a website that lists all the candidates (Republicans, Democrats, other parties and independents) and links to their official websites.
While many people will run for president you are likely to hear of only two names that will be on the ballot - the Democratic and Republican party nominees. Because the Democrats have a candidate that is already president (called an incumbent candidate) they have been raising money and making plans to re-elect President Barack Obama. The Republicans, on the other hand, are preparing for a long set of "primary elections" and "caucuses" (which will begin in January in Iowa and New Hampshire) in which they will chose a candidate to oppose President Obama in November 2012. There are very few differences between "primaries" and "caucuses" - they are basically elections in which only Republicans may participate because the winner becomes the representative of the Republican party. Of course, any Democrat could have chosen to challenge President Obama in Democratic "primaries" but no one has because it is very unlikely that he or she could win.
In the early days of American democracy candidates did not campaign - no tours, speeches, commercials, baby-kissing (a strange political custom), etc. Nowadays running for president is basically a two-year commitment - one that will end in failure for most candidates. They are constantly in front of the cameras and travelling through the states that have early primaries in order to gain support. In recent years the use of the internet by presidential candidates has revolutionized the process. Candidates raise money and share their ideas in order to give voters an opportunity to know them better.
Your research assignment this week focuses on the candidates' websites. I want you to chose two candidates and visit their websites and report back on your findings. Answer these questions: What did you learn about the lives of the candidates? Why do they want to be president? What are their plans for America? You do not have to make any statement about your own sentiments or support/opposition to a candidate but you may do so IF you can do it in a mature and knowledgeable manner. (Failure to communicate respectfully can result in disciplinary action and a loss of credit on this assignment).
While this assignment is meant to encourage you to study candidates in order to make informed decisions it is also an opportunity for you to practice respectful dialogue. It is important to remember how valuable the opinions of others are and to state your own opinions in such a way that people will be inclined to listen to you rather than reject what you have to say. Remember that for full credit you must write 200 words and leave responses totaling at least 150 words regarding the essays of at least two other students.
Follow the link http://2012.presidential-candidates.org/ to a website that lists all the candidates (Republicans, Democrats, other parties and independents) and links to their official websites.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Homework 1, Due October 21, 2011
First, mega-congratulations to the SCS soccer team for the state championship! Now the homework. We've researched the Civil War for several weeks now, and your essays have been excellent. The period of study we're entering now is as essential as any other when it comes to understanding America, yet, being sandwiched between the Civil War and the exciting 20th century, it is often overlooked. Think about it: in a period of 36 years (about as long as your history teacher has been alive) three presidents were assassinated. Can you imagine picking up the pieces after the Civil War? How difficult would it be to put a nation back together after the death and destruction, especially given the untimely death of Lincoln less than a week after the war ended? Still, America, now occupying the land from sea to shining sea, was ready for new challenges.
Blacks were not only set free from slavery, but given citizenship and the right to vote (the men were, anyway). It would take another 100 years before the descendants of the former slaves would be guaranteed their civil rights, however, as hatred, bitterness, and racism gripped the southern culture.
One might think that Americans would be so sick of war that they would have avoided it regardless of the cost, but, of course, that is never the case. No sooner was the Civil War over when Americans turned their attention to the Native Americans who were occupying land in the west that now appeared much more valuable than before. And the US entered the "Age of Imperialism" when we attacked Spain for reasons that now seem a little hard to explain. (When the US Navy defeated the Spanish forces in Manila and seized the Philipines, a surprised President McKinley only had the vaguest notion of where the Philipines are located!).
The first task at hand was Reconstruction. For your assigment this week, please consider the two philosophies concerning the question of the southern states. Presidents Lincoln and Johnson favored restoring rights and property (except slaves, of course) to former Confederates who were willing to take an oath of allegiance to the US. Others (mostly radical northern Republicans who despised Johnson) thought of the southern states as conquored enemies who ought to be used to the North's benefit. Choose one of the following topics and write an essay about it, viewing the issue through both sides of the philosophical divide. Here's the list: The Civil War Amendments (13th-15th), "Carpetbaggers", the founding of Arlington National Cemetery, the Freedman's Bureau, and the Reconstruction Act of 1867. Minimum 200 words, at least 2 responses (total of 150 words). Include your sources.
Here's something for looking ahead. As you know, this class focuses on the history of our country from the Civil War to the present. We should get through the chronological history in plenty of time to focus on some topical history near the end of the school year. I anticipate units on Kentucky history, the Civil Rights movement, and the history of Christianity in America. Good stuff!
Blacks were not only set free from slavery, but given citizenship and the right to vote (the men were, anyway). It would take another 100 years before the descendants of the former slaves would be guaranteed their civil rights, however, as hatred, bitterness, and racism gripped the southern culture.
One might think that Americans would be so sick of war that they would have avoided it regardless of the cost, but, of course, that is never the case. No sooner was the Civil War over when Americans turned their attention to the Native Americans who were occupying land in the west that now appeared much more valuable than before. And the US entered the "Age of Imperialism" when we attacked Spain for reasons that now seem a little hard to explain. (When the US Navy defeated the Spanish forces in Manila and seized the Philipines, a surprised President McKinley only had the vaguest notion of where the Philipines are located!).
The first task at hand was Reconstruction. For your assigment this week, please consider the two philosophies concerning the question of the southern states. Presidents Lincoln and Johnson favored restoring rights and property (except slaves, of course) to former Confederates who were willing to take an oath of allegiance to the US. Others (mostly radical northern Republicans who despised Johnson) thought of the southern states as conquored enemies who ought to be used to the North's benefit. Choose one of the following topics and write an essay about it, viewing the issue through both sides of the philosophical divide. Here's the list: The Civil War Amendments (13th-15th), "Carpetbaggers", the founding of Arlington National Cemetery, the Freedman's Bureau, and the Reconstruction Act of 1867. Minimum 200 words, at least 2 responses (total of 150 words). Include your sources.
Here's something for looking ahead. As you know, this class focuses on the history of our country from the Civil War to the present. We should get through the chronological history in plenty of time to focus on some topical history near the end of the school year. I anticipate units on Kentucky history, the Civil Rights movement, and the history of Christianity in America. Good stuff!
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Make-up opportunity, due October 14, 2011
The quality of homework posts this year has been worth celebrating, and you are to be commended for it. However, the rate of participation is notably lower than the last couple of years, and that spells disaster for some students. How you choose to spend your time is your own affair, but there are consequences for failing to fulfill your obligations. Because it is still early in the year and you have time to correct your errors (those of you who have grown lax) I am giving you this opportunity to make up an assignment. Because no comments are going to be recorded, your essay must be 400 words in length, but it will completely expunge your lowest homework grade of the quarter.
This assignment continues our study of the Civil War, focusing on the events of the war and individuals who participated from the state of Kentucky. Several significant battles were fought in the commonwealth, and soldiers from Kentucky fought on both sides of the war.
Although we typically say that Kentucky was a slave state that did not secede, in truth, there was an attempt (unsuccessful) at secession, that would have made Kentucky a member of the Conferedate States of America. Near Somerset the Battle of Mill Springs was important in securing Union control of the Ohio Valley, and the Battle of Perryville was one of the hardest-fought battles of the war. You already know that both Civil War presidents (Lincoln and Davis) were born in Kentucky, and some families had members to fight on opposite sides (such as the Breckinridges - dad and one son were Union generals, another son was a Confederate general).
General Grant first commanded in Kentucky, as did Gen. William T. Sherman (who had a nervous breakdown while overseeing Louisville, and was sent home to recuperate when he imagined that the Confederates were teaming with Native Americans (none of whom lived anywhere near Kentucky) for a massive attack. He was the laughing-stock of the country when he requested 20,000 soldiers to protect Louisville against Indians!
These are just a few of the amazing Civil War stories and individuals related to Kentucky that played a major role in the war. Your assignment this week is to research a Civil War person or event related to our state and post an essay revealing your findings. Unlike previous weeks I am not giving you a specific web site, so please cite your references. Did your family play a role in Kentucky Civil War history? That would be a great story to share.
This assignment continues our study of the Civil War, focusing on the events of the war and individuals who participated from the state of Kentucky. Several significant battles were fought in the commonwealth, and soldiers from Kentucky fought on both sides of the war.
Although we typically say that Kentucky was a slave state that did not secede, in truth, there was an attempt (unsuccessful) at secession, that would have made Kentucky a member of the Conferedate States of America. Near Somerset the Battle of Mill Springs was important in securing Union control of the Ohio Valley, and the Battle of Perryville was one of the hardest-fought battles of the war. You already know that both Civil War presidents (Lincoln and Davis) were born in Kentucky, and some families had members to fight on opposite sides (such as the Breckinridges - dad and one son were Union generals, another son was a Confederate general).
General Grant first commanded in Kentucky, as did Gen. William T. Sherman (who had a nervous breakdown while overseeing Louisville, and was sent home to recuperate when he imagined that the Confederates were teaming with Native Americans (none of whom lived anywhere near Kentucky) for a massive attack. He was the laughing-stock of the country when he requested 20,000 soldiers to protect Louisville against Indians!
These are just a few of the amazing Civil War stories and individuals related to Kentucky that played a major role in the war. Your assignment this week is to research a Civil War person or event related to our state and post an essay revealing your findings. Unlike previous weeks I am not giving you a specific web site, so please cite your references. Did your family play a role in Kentucky Civil War history? That would be a great story to share.
Homework 8, Due October 14, 2011
This is our second Civil War related assignment, and I hope you are enjoying learning about this significant event in American history. I am, as usual, very pleased with the quality of this past week's essays, and you deserve kudos for the very excellent work you have done as a class! I am disappointed that some students have chosen to forego the homework experience, but I assure you that there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth in short order as the first grading period comes to an end.
That being said, let me address a couple of issues that affect only a few students but need to be restated for everyone to hear. First, a relatively minor issue, is remembering to write gramatically. While you are not likely to lose points for style and quality of prose, plz dnt use IM and txt language - there's a place and time for that...not here, and not now! The other issue is of great importance to me, and one that I will spend some class time emphasizing. That is avoiding plaigerism. You absolutely cannot use someone else's words and claim them as your own! When you use someone's ideas (not a crime) you must cite the reference (give credit where credit is due). Word of warning to everyone, bad things happen to students who cut corners!
Now, on to our Civil War topic - Abraham Lincoln. During class we will discuss some of the numerous setbacks in Lincoln's life: business failures, political disasters, bungled military experiences, and even a complete nervous breakdown. It would be unfair to the man NOT to mention these things, for they are the obstacles he overcame to become what many believe to be the greatest of all American presidents. His words live on, and for nearly one hundred fifty years we Americans have pondered his place in history.
Lincoln was known to be very friendly, to tell funny stories and laugh loudly with friends. Even during the Civil War he took time to return letters written from children. (Taking the advice of one small girl, he grew a beard when she suggested it would make his face look better). He was a loving father who loved to spend time with his children, reading to them daily and referring to them by nicknames.
While Lincoln was often disatisfied with his commanding generals (except Grant) he was revered by the soldiers in the Union army and visited them as often as possible. One sergeant shouted at Lincoln, calling him a rather unpleasant name ("fool" being the part that can be repeated) when Lincoln peeped over a wall of defense so he could get a better view of the rebels on the enemy lines. Lincoln recognized his mistake, and the sergeant got away with it!
As you all know by now, Lincoln was born in Kentucky but left as a young boy when his family moved to Indiana. Here are some things you might be interested in: Lincoln was named after his grandfather, a Kentucky pioneer that was killed in an Indian attack. Lincoln's grandparents' marriage certificate is still on file in Springfield, KY. Lincoln's birthplace in Hodgenville was just that - his family moved to a small farm now located on Highway 31E south of Bardstown, where he formed his first memories. As a small child the Lincolns relocated to Indiana, where he grew up before moving to Illinois as a young adult to begin his career.
Lincoln's wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, was from Lexington, and her family home still stands today. Her family was wealthy and prominent and close friends with Henry Clay.
Lincoln was the first Republican president, and his burial place in Springfield, IL, is visited by politicians every year. In fact, for generations, Republican candidates have rubbed the huge nose of the statue of Lincoln there for good luck! In this latest election, then-Senator Barak Obama chose Lincoln's burial place to announce his candidacy for the presidency. That's proof of how Lincoln has become a symbol of the best of America!
I would like you to do some research of your own on the life, speeches, and impact of President Lincoln. Please visit the website http://www.besthistorysites.net/USHistory_CivilWar.shtml#lincoln and scroll down to the references that focus on Lincoln. This is a good starting point, but you may use other references as well (remember to cite!).
Here's your question: Shakespeare wrote in his play Twelfth Night "Be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them." Most would agree that Lincoln falls into the category being a "great" leader. In your opinion, what was great about Lincoln? Share your findings in a 200 word essay, and be sure to post at least two replies concerning the essays of your classmates (150 word total).
That being said, let me address a couple of issues that affect only a few students but need to be restated for everyone to hear. First, a relatively minor issue, is remembering to write gramatically. While you are not likely to lose points for style and quality of prose, plz dnt use IM and txt language - there's a place and time for that...not here, and not now! The other issue is of great importance to me, and one that I will spend some class time emphasizing. That is avoiding plaigerism. You absolutely cannot use someone else's words and claim them as your own! When you use someone's ideas (not a crime) you must cite the reference (give credit where credit is due). Word of warning to everyone, bad things happen to students who cut corners!
Now, on to our Civil War topic - Abraham Lincoln. During class we will discuss some of the numerous setbacks in Lincoln's life: business failures, political disasters, bungled military experiences, and even a complete nervous breakdown. It would be unfair to the man NOT to mention these things, for they are the obstacles he overcame to become what many believe to be the greatest of all American presidents. His words live on, and for nearly one hundred fifty years we Americans have pondered his place in history.
Lincoln was known to be very friendly, to tell funny stories and laugh loudly with friends. Even during the Civil War he took time to return letters written from children. (Taking the advice of one small girl, he grew a beard when she suggested it would make his face look better). He was a loving father who loved to spend time with his children, reading to them daily and referring to them by nicknames.
While Lincoln was often disatisfied with his commanding generals (except Grant) he was revered by the soldiers in the Union army and visited them as often as possible. One sergeant shouted at Lincoln, calling him a rather unpleasant name ("fool" being the part that can be repeated) when Lincoln peeped over a wall of defense so he could get a better view of the rebels on the enemy lines. Lincoln recognized his mistake, and the sergeant got away with it!
As you all know by now, Lincoln was born in Kentucky but left as a young boy when his family moved to Indiana. Here are some things you might be interested in: Lincoln was named after his grandfather, a Kentucky pioneer that was killed in an Indian attack. Lincoln's grandparents' marriage certificate is still on file in Springfield, KY. Lincoln's birthplace in Hodgenville was just that - his family moved to a small farm now located on Highway 31E south of Bardstown, where he formed his first memories. As a small child the Lincolns relocated to Indiana, where he grew up before moving to Illinois as a young adult to begin his career.
Lincoln's wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, was from Lexington, and her family home still stands today. Her family was wealthy and prominent and close friends with Henry Clay.
Lincoln was the first Republican president, and his burial place in Springfield, IL, is visited by politicians every year. In fact, for generations, Republican candidates have rubbed the huge nose of the statue of Lincoln there for good luck! In this latest election, then-Senator Barak Obama chose Lincoln's burial place to announce his candidacy for the presidency. That's proof of how Lincoln has become a symbol of the best of America!
I would like you to do some research of your own on the life, speeches, and impact of President Lincoln. Please visit the website http://www.besthistorysites.net/USHistory_CivilWar.shtml#lincoln and scroll down to the references that focus on Lincoln. This is a good starting point, but you may use other references as well (remember to cite!).
Here's your question: Shakespeare wrote in his play Twelfth Night "Be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them." Most would agree that Lincoln falls into the category being a "great" leader. In your opinion, what was great about Lincoln? Share your findings in a 200 word essay, and be sure to post at least two replies concerning the essays of your classmates (150 word total).
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Homework 7, Due October 1, 2011
Soon we will be studying the Civil War. As we've discussed in class, there were a number of issues that contributed to the sectional conflict between the North and the South, such as the fact that the northern states felt the need for high protective tariffs while the southern states believed that free trade was in their best interests. When causes of the Civil War are discussed nowadays, however, there is one issue that dominates the rest. That is, of course, the issue of slavery.
African slaves came to America with the first white settlers. Slavery was common in each of the colonies, as it was in most west European countries. Over the years, however, many began to question the morality of slavery. In the north, where the amount of agricultural work gradually decreased and was replaced by factory work in the Industrial Revolution, the need for slaves disappeared first. Revivals in Europe led directly to the prohibition of slavery in the early nineteenth century (1800s) and many northeners began to call for an end to slavery in the US.
In the South, however, many believed that raising cash crops was impossible without the cheap labor that slaves provided, and they stubbornly refused to acknowledge the immorality of owning other human beings. Abolitionists in the North believed that the power of the federal government ought to be used to free the slaves, and soon the issue was the most hotly debated topic of the day. Soon the South, feeling that its best interests were no longer being served by remaining a part of the United States, chose to secede (leave the Union), and a war broke out when the North determined to not allow that to happen.
In history class we often have to focus on "political history" - the big names, big issues, and big events of the past. It's important to remember, though, that history is the story of human beings that were just like people today. They lived their lives just as you do, with your individual dreams and problems and familiar surroundings. This week we will study the lives of slaves in America. Follow the link http://www.socialstudiesforkids.com/subjects/slavery.htm and choose one of the topics then select an essay to read and review.
As usual, your essay must be 200 words long and followed by at least two responses to the essays of your classmates (total 150 words). Thus far your work has been excellent, so I encourage you to keep up the good work. God bless!
African slaves came to America with the first white settlers. Slavery was common in each of the colonies, as it was in most west European countries. Over the years, however, many began to question the morality of slavery. In the north, where the amount of agricultural work gradually decreased and was replaced by factory work in the Industrial Revolution, the need for slaves disappeared first. Revivals in Europe led directly to the prohibition of slavery in the early nineteenth century (1800s) and many northeners began to call for an end to slavery in the US.
In the South, however, many believed that raising cash crops was impossible without the cheap labor that slaves provided, and they stubbornly refused to acknowledge the immorality of owning other human beings. Abolitionists in the North believed that the power of the federal government ought to be used to free the slaves, and soon the issue was the most hotly debated topic of the day. Soon the South, feeling that its best interests were no longer being served by remaining a part of the United States, chose to secede (leave the Union), and a war broke out when the North determined to not allow that to happen.
In history class we often have to focus on "political history" - the big names, big issues, and big events of the past. It's important to remember, though, that history is the story of human beings that were just like people today. They lived their lives just as you do, with your individual dreams and problems and familiar surroundings. This week we will study the lives of slaves in America. Follow the link http://www.socialstudiesforkids.com/subjects/slavery.htm and choose one of the topics then select an essay to read and review.
As usual, your essay must be 200 words long and followed by at least two responses to the essays of your classmates (total 150 words). Thus far your work has been excellent, so I encourage you to keep up the good work. God bless!
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Homework 6, Due September 23, 2011
The name of Sen. Henry Clay has already been mentioned several times in our lectures. Sen. Clay owned a large farm near Lexington, KY named "Ashland" which is now a state-owned museum. (Orininally 400 acres outside the city limits, it's now a much smaller parcel of land that is practically downtown on Main Street, just a short distance from Coach Cal's home). Clay was an important figure in Kentucky and Washington, D.C. for decades and earned the title "The Great Compromiser" (in a day before "compromise" was a bad word in politics) and was nominated for president three times (unfortunately losing every time, which prompted his famous saying, "I'd rather be right than be president!").
Far from being the only major contributor, however, Kentuckians have always played an important role in national politics, most notably in the Senate. This week's assignment is for you to research a senator from Kentucky (a list can be found at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_United_States_Senators_from_Kentucky) and report your findings. Where did the senator come from? What were his major contributions? To what political party did he belong? How long did he serve? What do you find most interesting about the senator?
This is the kind of assignment that some low-down and trifling weasels will be tempted to cheat on. Warning - I have google too, and will find you. And when I do, I'll give you a zero and post a link so everyone can see where you found the stolen information! Hint: if you use the copy/paste function at all, you are probably breaking a law. Don't do it; it's not worth the trouble!
I'd like to point out that, as you look at the list, there are some names that you might be interested in tracing. Kentucky's first senator, John Brown, for instance, set a trend. His descendants (John Browns all, though usually using the middle initial "Y", have been senators, governors, and major business leaders in the state (including one still alive and kicking in Lexington). One of the most interesting Kentucky families was the Crittendens (senators, vice president, and Civil War generals...on opposite sides!). Also the Breckinridges, whose story is similar. In downtown Somerset there's a statue (yes, that one) of Sen. John Sherman Cooper, who was Kentucky's longest-serving senator until Sen Mitch McConnel broke his record. And finally, Sen. Alben Barkley, who went on to be the vice president under Pres. Harry Truman.
NOW (drum roll, please) I wish to make an offer so unbelievable that NO ONE will believe it. You've heard of a homework pass? Please, that's kids' stuff. How about a TEST PASS? That's right, I said TEST PASS, as in "keep on trucking, you get the day off." Too good to be true? You can believe it...it's a real offer. What's the catch, you say? So small, it's hardly worth mentioning, but here goes: Kentucky is home to some important Lincoln sites, as mentioned above. Also, near the KY/TN border in Harrogate, TN on the campus of Lincoln Memorial University (alma mater of great KY author, Jesse Stuart!) is a very impressive Lincoln museum. IF, by October 15, you create an in-person video blog of a visit to one of those three locations (birthplace, childhood home, museum) - and no, old family videos don't count, it must be current - I will exempt you from a 2nd quarter test (semester exam not included) or will DROP YOUR LOWEST SECOND QUARTER TEST GRADE IF YOU TAKE ALL TESTS! If you plan on vacationing near another significant Lincoln site (Gettysburg, Springfield IL, etc) and would like to do the project there, call, email, or text for special permission. The video blog must have educational merit, proving that you've spent some time learning at the site.
Now - give this assignment your best, and God bless!
Far from being the only major contributor, however, Kentuckians have always played an important role in national politics, most notably in the Senate. This week's assignment is for you to research a senator from Kentucky (a list can be found at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_United_States_Senators_from_Kentucky) and report your findings. Where did the senator come from? What were his major contributions? To what political party did he belong? How long did he serve? What do you find most interesting about the senator?
This is the kind of assignment that some low-down and trifling weasels will be tempted to cheat on. Warning - I have google too, and will find you. And when I do, I'll give you a zero and post a link so everyone can see where you found the stolen information! Hint: if you use the copy/paste function at all, you are probably breaking a law. Don't do it; it's not worth the trouble!
I'd like to point out that, as you look at the list, there are some names that you might be interested in tracing. Kentucky's first senator, John Brown, for instance, set a trend. His descendants (John Browns all, though usually using the middle initial "Y", have been senators, governors, and major business leaders in the state (including one still alive and kicking in Lexington). One of the most interesting Kentucky families was the Crittendens (senators, vice president, and Civil War generals...on opposite sides!). Also the Breckinridges, whose story is similar. In downtown Somerset there's a statue (yes, that one) of Sen. John Sherman Cooper, who was Kentucky's longest-serving senator until Sen Mitch McConnel broke his record. And finally, Sen. Alben Barkley, who went on to be the vice president under Pres. Harry Truman.
NOW (drum roll, please) I wish to make an offer so unbelievable that NO ONE will believe it. You've heard of a homework pass? Please, that's kids' stuff. How about a TEST PASS? That's right, I said TEST PASS, as in "keep on trucking, you get the day off." Too good to be true? You can believe it...it's a real offer. What's the catch, you say? So small, it's hardly worth mentioning, but here goes: Kentucky is home to some important Lincoln sites, as mentioned above. Also, near the KY/TN border in Harrogate, TN on the campus of Lincoln Memorial University (alma mater of great KY author, Jesse Stuart!) is a very impressive Lincoln museum. IF, by October 15, you create an in-person video blog of a visit to one of those three locations (birthplace, childhood home, museum) - and no, old family videos don't count, it must be current - I will exempt you from a 2nd quarter test (semester exam not included) or will DROP YOUR LOWEST SECOND QUARTER TEST GRADE IF YOU TAKE ALL TESTS! If you plan on vacationing near another significant Lincoln site (Gettysburg, Springfield IL, etc) and would like to do the project there, call, email, or text for special permission. The video blog must have educational merit, proving that you've spent some time learning at the site.
Now - give this assignment your best, and God bless!
Sunday, September 11, 2011
For those having trouble leaving comments:
Evidently Google's new settings have caused headaches for blogs everywhere, and I'm sorry it's been so inconvenient for some of you trying to post homework assignments. Follow the steps below (the first one should take care of the problem).
You may have a problem with authentication, and with cookie filtering.
First, try a different login procedure.
1. Login to Blogger using "www.blogger.com".
2. Do not check "Remember me" or "stay signed in".
If that does not help, try a second time..
1. Clear cache, cookies, and sessions (not just cache or cookies) - then restart the browser.
2. Login to Blogger using "www.blogger.com".
3. Do not check "Remember me".
Alternatively, stop filtering "third party cookies", in your browser and on your computer.
You may have a problem with authentication, and with cookie filtering.
First, try a different login procedure.
1. Login to Blogger using "www.blogger.com".
2. Do not check "Remember me" or "stay signed in".
If that does not help, try a second time..
1. Clear cache, cookies, and sessions (not just cache or cookies) - then restart the browser.
2. Login to Blogger using "www.blogger.com".
3. Do not check "Remember me".
Alternatively, stop filtering "third party cookies", in your browser and on your computer.
Homework 5, Due September 16, 2011
This week your assignment is to spend some time in research and reflection concerning the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. First, what are your personal recollections of the day? How did you find out about the attacks, and how did you and those around you respond? Visit the website http://www.history.com/content/9-11 to research the events and response of September 11, 2001.
As you all know, the Bible instucts us to love our enemies. In light of the world-wide terrorism threat, how ought Christians balance the necessity of protecting ourselves and our country with Christ's command that we respond to evil with good? The basic guidelines for this assignment are the same as the ones that have come before: 200 word essay and at least two responses to others (totalling 150 words).
Here's a bonus opportunity for those that are interested: Visit the website http://www.nationalgeographic.com/lewisandclark/index.html and research one of the Native American tribes that the Lewis and Clark expedition encountered along the way. Write a brief essay (150 words) sharing what you find and turn it in during class this week. This will be worth 5 percentage points added to the most recent test grade!
Some of you are waiting to the last minute to do your homework assignments and that has a way of working out in a very negative way sometimes. Let's get right on this assignment - don't procrastinate! Your work so far has been more than exciting - I've truly enjoyed getting to read your opinions and ideas!
As you all know, the Bible instucts us to love our enemies. In light of the world-wide terrorism threat, how ought Christians balance the necessity of protecting ourselves and our country with Christ's command that we respond to evil with good? The basic guidelines for this assignment are the same as the ones that have come before: 200 word essay and at least two responses to others (totalling 150 words).
Here's a bonus opportunity for those that are interested: Visit the website http://www.nationalgeographic.com/lewisandclark/index.html and research one of the Native American tribes that the Lewis and Clark expedition encountered along the way. Write a brief essay (150 words) sharing what you find and turn it in during class this week. This will be worth 5 percentage points added to the most recent test grade!
Some of you are waiting to the last minute to do your homework assignments and that has a way of working out in a very negative way sometimes. Let's get right on this assignment - don't procrastinate! Your work so far has been more than exciting - I've truly enjoyed getting to read your opinions and ideas!
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Homework 4, Due September 9, 2011
The job of being president of the United States is one of great significance and responsibility. In addition to proposing and promoting his plans for the country (remember, he can accomplish very little unless he gets the US Congress to agree with his wishes), being the Commander in Chief of US Forces, and working with the UN and other nations to contribute to international affairs, the president is also responsible for being the chief administrator of the country. That by itself is an intense job, and one that requires the assistance of the best and most qualified team he can assemble.
The first president, George Washington, created a group of advisors called a "cabinet." Since Washington is considered such an icon, the name has become a permanent part of our political system. The first cabinet had only three members: Secretary of State, Secretary of the Treasury, and Secretary of War. Today the cabinet consists of many more departments, and the Department of War has a warmer, friendlier name: the Department of Defense. The president nominates men and women to fill the posts as long as he is in office (although most of them only stay a few years) and they must be approved by the US Senate (after long, sometimes nerve-racking hearings that are broadcast live on TV - no pressure for the nominee, huh?).
If you were president, what kind of individuals would you seek to fill cabinet posts? Follow the link http://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/cabinet to the White House web site which lists the cabinet-level departments. After reviewing the information available, which three cabinet secretaries have the most important responsibilities today and why do you think so?
Historical setting: George Washington served as president from 1789 to 1797. His Secretary of State was Thomas Jefferson; his Secretary of the Treasury was Alexander Hamilton; his Secretary of War was General Henry Knox. Jefferson and Hamilton were intense rivals, each with very different visions of how the new country should develop. Those two men are the philosophical founders of today's two principal political parties, the Republicans (Hamilton) and the Democrats (Jefferson).
Be sure your essay is at least 200 words, and you must repsond to at least two of your classmates' submissions (total of 150 words). Keep your essays on topic (answer the actual questions that are posed in the assignment!) and read your classmates' responses carefully before providing feedback.
Thanks for your hard work, guys - you're doing a great job!
The first president, George Washington, created a group of advisors called a "cabinet." Since Washington is considered such an icon, the name has become a permanent part of our political system. The first cabinet had only three members: Secretary of State, Secretary of the Treasury, and Secretary of War. Today the cabinet consists of many more departments, and the Department of War has a warmer, friendlier name: the Department of Defense. The president nominates men and women to fill the posts as long as he is in office (although most of them only stay a few years) and they must be approved by the US Senate (after long, sometimes nerve-racking hearings that are broadcast live on TV - no pressure for the nominee, huh?).
If you were president, what kind of individuals would you seek to fill cabinet posts? Follow the link http://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/cabinet to the White House web site which lists the cabinet-level departments. After reviewing the information available, which three cabinet secretaries have the most important responsibilities today and why do you think so?
Historical setting: George Washington served as president from 1789 to 1797. His Secretary of State was Thomas Jefferson; his Secretary of the Treasury was Alexander Hamilton; his Secretary of War was General Henry Knox. Jefferson and Hamilton were intense rivals, each with very different visions of how the new country should develop. Those two men are the philosophical founders of today's two principal political parties, the Republicans (Hamilton) and the Democrats (Jefferson).
Be sure your essay is at least 200 words, and you must repsond to at least two of your classmates' submissions (total of 150 words). Keep your essays on topic (answer the actual questions that are posed in the assignment!) and read your classmates' responses carefully before providing feedback.
Thanks for your hard work, guys - you're doing a great job!
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Homework 3, Due September 2, 2011
As we study the founding of our nation, consider what it must have been like to be a delegate to the Constitutional Convention during the hot summer months of 1787. This week's assignment requires you to follow the link http://teachingamericanhistory.org/convention/themes/ and research the major themes addressed by the delegates. Give a report (200 word minimum) that addresses two of the issues - one of which you agree with the decision reached by the delegates, and one of which you disagree. Explain why you agree or disagree. For example, on July 26 the convention voted that a president should serve a seven year term of office, but then would be ineligible for reelection. Later this decision was changed, of course, but do you agree with the original plan? How would it affect politics in the U.S. today?
I am very impressed with your posts from the previous two weeks! Great job guys - keep it up!
I am very impressed with your posts from the previous two weeks! Great job guys - keep it up!
Bonus Opportunity!
The first student to post a correct response to this question will receive two extra-credit points added to the upcoming test: What member of the Constitutional Convention called for "prayers imploring the assistance of heaven"? Answer who, when (exact date), and why – and provide a reference citation.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Homework 2, Due August 26, 2011
Great job on assignment #1 guys! You put your best foot forward to start the new year, and I'm proud of you! No doubt this will take some getting used to, but you are off to a fantastic start. This week's assignment includes a research requirement. Go to the website www.kidinfo.com/American_History/Colonization_Colonial_Life.html and view the available links. Choose a topic to read about and then report back with your findings. Your topic should focus on a fairly narrow aspect of colonial life and your essay should answer the "W" questions: who, what, when, where, and (especially) why. Example topics include: the story of a particular settler or family; the life of blacks in the colonies; common professions in the colonies, etc. Be creative and choose a topic that interests you. Your essay must be at least 200 words and is due by midnight, August 26. As you did last week, respond to the posts of at least two others with valuable reactions, questions, or (respectfully stated) disagreements with the conclusions drawn.
Remember that the point of the lesson is to practice research, writing, and communication with others while learning more about our American ancestors. You all are fantastic students and I'm excited to see what you come up with! God bless!
Remember that the point of the lesson is to practice research, writing, and communication with others while learning more about our American ancestors. You all are fantastic students and I'm excited to see what you come up with! God bless!
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Homework 1, Due August 19, 2011
Hello everyone! This is your first assignment. In order to sign in you must have a Google account (it's free and you can sign up directly from this page by clicking on "Comments" and then choosing Google ID). You'll create an account and then be able to leave your feedback. Answer the following question then check in to respond to two other comments left by others. Your initial response is due by midnight, August 19. Your responses are due by midnight, August 21 (Sunday night). Here's the question:
What does it mean to be an American? Without relying on cliches or shallow self-congratulating nonsense, what makes America unique in the world? For those of you who call another country home, what perceptions did you form of America before you came here to study? How did you develop those perceptions?
Your essay should be at least 200 words long and you must respond to AT LEAST two other students' essays (minimum 150 total responses).
Ok, good luck, guys! I can't wait to hear what you have to say!
What does it mean to be an American? Without relying on cliches or shallow self-congratulating nonsense, what makes America unique in the world? For those of you who call another country home, what perceptions did you form of America before you came here to study? How did you develop those perceptions?
Your essay should be at least 200 words long and you must respond to AT LEAST two other students' essays (minimum 150 total responses).
Ok, good luck, guys! I can't wait to hear what you have to say!
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Good websites to review your history
www.wilsoncenter.org/coldwarfiles
jeopardylabs.com
thehistorymakers.com
ourdocuments.gov
us.history.org
gilderlihrman.com
jeopardylabs.com
thehistorymakers.com
ourdocuments.gov
us.history.org
gilderlihrman.com
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Homework 7, Due May 20, 2011
This will be the final history assignment of the year (congratulations, especially to you juniors, for whom this will be the last of your high school career!). I would like to end this year much the same as we did last year, with an opportunity to reflect on what we've learned. In your essay I would like you to choose a) an era other than the present that you think would have been the most interesting/exciting to have lived in and explain why; b) a non-biblical person we have studied that you think has had the most positive influence on the world and explain why; and c) an event that we have studied that you would have loved to have taken part in, and explain why.
Please make sure to post your homework on time, to comment on the posts of your classmates, and to follow the guidelines for these assignments. Only a two more weeks until we wrap things up! God bless!
Please make sure to post your homework on time, to comment on the posts of your classmates, and to follow the guidelines for these assignments. Only a two more weeks until we wrap things up! God bless!
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Homework 6, Due May 6, 2011
There are so many topics that would be a great fit for this week! This week marks the fortieth anniversary of the heroic “Freedom Riders” that travelled the South to force the integration of bus stops and restaurants that were refusing to honor Supreme Court decisions concerning the rights of minorities in the US. Also, this week the eyes of the world will turn to Kentucky for the “Run for the Roses” – the Kentucky Derby, arguably the world’s most famous race (with a world-wide viewing audience that is bigger than that of the Super Bowl, the World Series, or the NBA finals). The history of horse racing is closely connected with our state’s history. Not far from where you are sitting to read this thousands of spectators used to gather at the home of Revolutionary War hero William Whitley to witness the first horse races in Kentucky. Our state boasts two of the best-known race tracks in America (Churchill Downs in Louisville and Keeneland in Lexington), the world’s most expensive horse auction (Keeneland’s annual sales events), and is home to many of the most successful horse farms in the world. Each year hundreds of thousands of people travel to Kentucky to enjoy what is our state’s signature industry.
However, I feel that it would be appropriate to take this time to focus on a theme that is more closely connected to the material we are covering in lecture. As we continue to study World War II there are so many notable events and people that deserve our attention. For this week's assignment you can choose to research and report on the role of women in the war effort (there's more to the story than "Rosie the Riveter", as you will find at the excellent link http://www.spartacus.schoolnet.co.uk/2WWwomen.htm - please mention at least three) or you may choose to examine US propaganda efforts by means of war-time posters. These posters were produced and distributed by the government with a purpose in mind - examine and analyze at least three at the link http://digital.library.northwestern.edu/otcgi/digilib/llscgi60.exe?QUERY=jpeg®ION=M8561Z&db=0&SIZE=10&SORTBY=M260C and explain the significance of these posters. Also, do you think they were effective in World War II? Does the government propagandize current wars? If so, how?
Please make every attempt to complete this assignment on time. Respond to the essays of others in the class with thoughtful comments that challenge deeper thinking. Remember to meet all the requirements of these assignments. Thank you and have a great week!
However, I feel that it would be appropriate to take this time to focus on a theme that is more closely connected to the material we are covering in lecture. As we continue to study World War II there are so many notable events and people that deserve our attention. For this week's assignment you can choose to research and report on the role of women in the war effort (there's more to the story than "Rosie the Riveter", as you will find at the excellent link http://www.spartacus.schoolnet.co.uk/2WWwomen.htm - please mention at least three) or you may choose to examine US propaganda efforts by means of war-time posters. These posters were produced and distributed by the government with a purpose in mind - examine and analyze at least three at the link http://digital.library.northwestern.edu/otcgi/digilib/llscgi60.exe?QUERY=jpeg®ION=M8561Z&db=0&SIZE=10&SORTBY=M260C and explain the significance of these posters. Also, do you think they were effective in World War II? Does the government propagandize current wars? If so, how?
Please make every attempt to complete this assignment on time. Respond to the essays of others in the class with thoughtful comments that challenge deeper thinking. Remember to meet all the requirements of these assignments. Thank you and have a great week!
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Homework 5, Due April 29, 2011
Because of the drama performances this week and standardized testing next week, this is a good time to do a two-week assignment (not any longer, you just have extra time to complete it).
As we study World War I (and shortly thereafter World War II) I want you to consider the devastating effects of such protracted conflict in the middle of a densly populated continent. Many of the major battles occurred near cities and millions of people were displaced - some would return to find that everything they owned was destroyed by the war. Of course, the US would play a role in both wars, but in each case the US was not involved in the early military conflicts and had almost no damage at home; this was very different from the European experience to say the least. (In World War II the Japanese made only minimal attempts to attack American domestic targets, and a German submarine was forced to land on the coast of the US after experiencing difficulties. The Germans tried to turn themselves in but no one would believe them until they went to great lenghts to prove their story!)
Your assignment is to research a battle of World War I (excellent link: http://www.pbs.org/greatwar/maps/ ) and share your findings. Do your best to determine the effects of your chosen battle on the local population. Then envision what it would be like if such a battle were to occur close to Somerset. How do you think life would be different? Can you imagine any way in which it would be the same?
Please remember to comply with all the requirements for these assignments. Thanks and God bless!
As we study World War I (and shortly thereafter World War II) I want you to consider the devastating effects of such protracted conflict in the middle of a densly populated continent. Many of the major battles occurred near cities and millions of people were displaced - some would return to find that everything they owned was destroyed by the war. Of course, the US would play a role in both wars, but in each case the US was not involved in the early military conflicts and had almost no damage at home; this was very different from the European experience to say the least. (In World War II the Japanese made only minimal attempts to attack American domestic targets, and a German submarine was forced to land on the coast of the US after experiencing difficulties. The Germans tried to turn themselves in but no one would believe them until they went to great lenghts to prove their story!)
Your assignment is to research a battle of World War I (excellent link: http://www.pbs.org/greatwar/maps/ ) and share your findings. Do your best to determine the effects of your chosen battle on the local population. Then envision what it would be like if such a battle were to occur close to Somerset. How do you think life would be different? Can you imagine any way in which it would be the same?
Please remember to comply with all the requirements for these assignments. Thanks and God bless!
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Homework 4, Due April 15, 2011
Welcome back from Spring Break! I hope you had a wonderful time and are well-relaxed. We have only a short sprint to go before the end of the school year! Take every advantage of opportunities to get your grades in good shape between now and then!
150 years ago this week the US Civil War began. While slavery was the main issue, as we learned last year in US history (and will next year, for you sophomores) there were a great deal of issues that divided the North and the South. Take, for instance, the name of the war itself. In the North it was called a civil war (which means that different parts of the same country are fighting each other). In the South it was (is) referred to as "The War Between the States." To southerners the word "state" had always meant the same thing as "country" (look it up in a dictionary). Some have said, then, that the war was fought over a verb! The North liked to say "The United States is..." while the South said "The United States are...". And you thought verb conjugation brought trouble to YOUR life!
Can you actually imagine things getting so bad in our country today that an internal war would break out? How much tension and anger would have to build up before you were willing to take up arms and fight your neighbors...or your brother? For your assignment this week I want you to research a topic of the Civil War in Kentucky. You might consider the Breckinridge family - two brothers (one would be a US vice president) were generals on opposite sides of the war! President Lincoln's wife Mary Todd Lincoln was from Lexington, KY, and her brother was a Confederate general - which had to make the holidays a tad strained, wouldn't you think? You might consider a battle (there were many in Kentucky) or a community's involvement in the war.
In the light of the scope of world history, the US Civil War plays a fairly small role. However, it's implications would affect history on a global scale (for one thing, hundreds of Confederates fled the country after the war - there's a huge Rebel celebration held every year in Brazil for Portuguese-speaking descendants of southern soldiers!). It would also mark the end of western countries' holding onto the notion that slavery was acceptable. Everything happens for a reason!
Please remember to meet the requirements of these assignments. Good luck and happy hunting - be sure to cite your sources!
150 years ago this week the US Civil War began. While slavery was the main issue, as we learned last year in US history (and will next year, for you sophomores) there were a great deal of issues that divided the North and the South. Take, for instance, the name of the war itself. In the North it was called a civil war (which means that different parts of the same country are fighting each other). In the South it was (is) referred to as "The War Between the States." To southerners the word "state" had always meant the same thing as "country" (look it up in a dictionary). Some have said, then, that the war was fought over a verb! The North liked to say "The United States is..." while the South said "The United States are...". And you thought verb conjugation brought trouble to YOUR life!
Can you actually imagine things getting so bad in our country today that an internal war would break out? How much tension and anger would have to build up before you were willing to take up arms and fight your neighbors...or your brother? For your assignment this week I want you to research a topic of the Civil War in Kentucky. You might consider the Breckinridge family - two brothers (one would be a US vice president) were generals on opposite sides of the war! President Lincoln's wife Mary Todd Lincoln was from Lexington, KY, and her brother was a Confederate general - which had to make the holidays a tad strained, wouldn't you think? You might consider a battle (there were many in Kentucky) or a community's involvement in the war.
In the light of the scope of world history, the US Civil War plays a fairly small role. However, it's implications would affect history on a global scale (for one thing, hundreds of Confederates fled the country after the war - there's a huge Rebel celebration held every year in Brazil for Portuguese-speaking descendants of southern soldiers!). It would also mark the end of western countries' holding onto the notion that slavery was acceptable. Everything happens for a reason!
Please remember to meet the requirements of these assignments. Good luck and happy hunting - be sure to cite your sources!
Sunday, March 27, 2011
March 28-April 1, April 4-8
Hello! Because so many students will be travelling this week and next week is spring break, please enjoy a two-week hiatus from history homework! I will, however, offer an extra-credit assignment for those of you who have a desire to improve your grade. For 5 bonus points added to your test grade write an essay about Joan of Arc and post it as a comment (remember to cite your sources). You may do a second essay for the same amount of credit; research the wife of any American president and share your findings in an essay. These must be posted before midnight, April 10, for any credit.
A word of caution - after two weeks with no history homework over the Christmas vacation some of you had a hard time getting back into the habit of keeping up with your assignments. Don't let it happen this time!
A word of caution - after two weeks with no history homework over the Christmas vacation some of you had a hard time getting back into the habit of keeping up with your assignments. Don't let it happen this time!
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Homework 3, Due March 25, 2011
In American history classrooms not too long ago one might have been convinced that all the important contributions to human history were made by wealthy white men. In the documentary we watched (partially) earlier this year by Dr Jarred Diamond entitled "Guns, Germs, and Steel" we learned why white Europeans, who as recently as five or six centuries ago were woefully primitive in comparison to their middle-eastern and Asian contemporaries, would become the dominant culture through the age of imperialism and colonization. And, because of western social structure (much of which comes from the Bible) and physiology (men tend to be physically stronger than women), men have usually occupied the positions of leadership in society.
The modern study of history emphasizes the contributions of all parts of society. Indeed, rather than "great individuals" moving history, the opposite was often the case - doors of opportunity were opened to those in leadership because of the collective actions and decisions of ordinary people - regardless of race or gender. In an effort to remind us that history is about everybody, not just the powerful and wealthy few, historians now celebrate the history of previously underreported segments of society by dedicating a month to their story. Just as February was Black History Month, March is Women's History Month.
Your assignment this week is to visit the link http://womenshistorymonth.gov/ which is hosted by the US Library of Congress and follow the link entitled "Exhibits & Collections". There you will choose an article to read and report back to the class. Share what you learn and comment on what knowledge we would lose if we focused solely on the "great men" of history while neglecting everyone else.
Remember to meet all the requirements for this assignment and to post your essay on time for full credit. Have a good week!
The modern study of history emphasizes the contributions of all parts of society. Indeed, rather than "great individuals" moving history, the opposite was often the case - doors of opportunity were opened to those in leadership because of the collective actions and decisions of ordinary people - regardless of race or gender. In an effort to remind us that history is about everybody, not just the powerful and wealthy few, historians now celebrate the history of previously underreported segments of society by dedicating a month to their story. Just as February was Black History Month, March is Women's History Month.
Your assignment this week is to visit the link http://womenshistorymonth.gov/ which is hosted by the US Library of Congress and follow the link entitled "Exhibits & Collections". There you will choose an article to read and report back to the class. Share what you learn and comment on what knowledge we would lose if we focused solely on the "great men" of history while neglecting everyone else.
Remember to meet all the requirements for this assignment and to post your essay on time for full credit. Have a good week!
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Homework 2, Due March 18, 2011
I'm sure you have been as saddened as I have been to witness the terrible effects of the earthquake and resulting tsunami in Japan. It will take years to fully comprehend the extent of the damages and how it will affect Japan and the rest of the world. We already know that thousands have died and many more have lost everything they owned; it is possible that multiple nuclear reactors have suffered melt-downs, which potentially could be worse than than the natural disaster itself.
Natural disasters remind us of just how small we humans are in comparison to the earth we inhabit. Follow the link http://www.livescience.com/4927-worst-natural-disasters.html to Live Science's list of some of the largest natural disasters in history. Choose one to research and find accurate sources to give you more information.
After reporting on the natural disaster, answer these questions: what should countries do to prepare for such events? What natural disasters do you feel threaten our region the most?
Remember to post the assignment on time and to fulfill all the requirements for these assignments.
Natural disasters remind us of just how small we humans are in comparison to the earth we inhabit. Follow the link http://www.livescience.com/4927-worst-natural-disasters.html to Live Science's list of some of the largest natural disasters in history. Choose one to research and find accurate sources to give you more information.
After reporting on the natural disaster, answer these questions: what should countries do to prepare for such events? What natural disasters do you feel threaten our region the most?
Remember to post the assignment on time and to fulfill all the requirements for these assignments.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Homework 1, Due March 11, 2011
Because the comments part of this assignment is not due until Sunday, March 13, and I hope to have my grades posted before that, this assignment will be the first of the fourth quarter. That reminds us that the end of the year is is sight!
In honor of the Industrial Revolution, which is the topic of our upcoming lectures, this assignment will focus on the modern technological revolution, which shares many characteristics with the era we are studying. Every day you observe developing technologies and their results, and it hardly surprises anyone when some new invention or website appears that seems to change everything.
Your assignment will focus on some current inventions and changes that perhaps aren't as visible but still hold great importance. Follow the link
http://www.rand.org/pubs/monograph_reports/MR1307/MR1307.sum.html
to see a report by the RAND Corporation dealing with observations and predictions for the year 2015. RAND (Research and Devlopment) has been around for decades (same people that make the RAND/McNally maps) as a non-profit "think-tank", providing information to the government, researchers, and businesses in order to help them make better decisions.
Go to the RAND report and read and report on one of the following sections: THE REVOLUTION OF LIVING THINGS; THE REVOLUTION OF MATERIALS, DEVICES, AND MANUFACTURING; or META-TRENDS AND IMPLICATIONS. (Feel free to read the complete report, but it's rather lengthy). In your report answer the following questions: Are the changes, as a whole, an improvement for humanity? Of the concerns mentioned, which seems most important to you, and why? And finally, if you were asked to make a single prediction in the area upon which you are reporting for the year 2050, what would it be?
Be sure to follow the requirements for these assignments. They have a great impact on your grade!
In honor of the Industrial Revolution, which is the topic of our upcoming lectures, this assignment will focus on the modern technological revolution, which shares many characteristics with the era we are studying. Every day you observe developing technologies and their results, and it hardly surprises anyone when some new invention or website appears that seems to change everything.
Your assignment will focus on some current inventions and changes that perhaps aren't as visible but still hold great importance. Follow the link
http://www.rand.org/pubs/monograph_reports/MR1307/MR1307.sum.html
to see a report by the RAND Corporation dealing with observations and predictions for the year 2015. RAND (Research and Devlopment) has been around for decades (same people that make the RAND/McNally maps) as a non-profit "think-tank", providing information to the government, researchers, and businesses in order to help them make better decisions.
Go to the RAND report and read and report on one of the following sections: THE REVOLUTION OF LIVING THINGS; THE REVOLUTION OF MATERIALS, DEVICES, AND MANUFACTURING; or META-TRENDS AND IMPLICATIONS. (Feel free to read the complete report, but it's rather lengthy). In your report answer the following questions: Are the changes, as a whole, an improvement for humanity? Of the concerns mentioned, which seems most important to you, and why? And finally, if you were asked to make a single prediction in the area upon which you are reporting for the year 2050, what would it be?
Be sure to follow the requirements for these assignments. They have a great impact on your grade!
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Homework 9, Due March 4, 2011
Let's turn our attention this week to current US politics and what the budget negotiations in Washington, D.C. mean for us. If the Republicans in the House of Representatives and the Democrats in the Senate (and President Obama) fail to agree on a budget for the second half of this year, the government will "shut down". This has actually happended several times, one of which was very politically important. To catch you up on the current situation I'd like you to read the article from the Christian Science Monitor located at the link http://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Politics/2011/0223/If-a-government-shutdown-occurs-what-actually-happens .
Looking back to 1995, the Republican Party had just won massive victories in the midterm elections, taking control of the House of Representatives and the Senate while the Democrats controlled the White House(sounds familiar, right?). Like today, the two sides immediately clashed over spending. The Republicans wanted to cut spending by reducing government programs in order to reduce the deficit (government debt) and lower taxes. Democrats argued that the government spending was necessary and that people would suffer if the programs were eliminated. The Republicans were led by Newt Gingrich who was Speaker of the House of Representatives and Bob Dole, the minority leader of the Senate. Of course, Bill Clinton was President
A very short, clear summary of the events can be found at the link http://www.worldlingo.com/ma/enwiki/en/Federal_government_shutdown_of_1995 . To read the transcript of a PBS newscast during the dramatic negotiations, go to the link http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/clinton/etc/11131995.html . The newscast is rather long, but if you read a some of it you'll get a sense of the tension surrounding the political fight in Washington.
Answer the following questions: How important is compromise in the political system? If we send elected officials to Washington to represent our beliefs and values, when is it appropriate for them to concede some of those beliefs in order to meet the other side in the middle? What is your opinion of the current budget battle? Are there differences between now and 1995? (Need I remind you that rude or disrespectful posts will be deleted, meaning that you will receive no credit for the assignment?).
The requirements for this assignment are exactly the same as all those that preceded it. Have a good week!
Looking back to 1995, the Republican Party had just won massive victories in the midterm elections, taking control of the House of Representatives and the Senate while the Democrats controlled the White House(sounds familiar, right?). Like today, the two sides immediately clashed over spending. The Republicans wanted to cut spending by reducing government programs in order to reduce the deficit (government debt) and lower taxes. Democrats argued that the government spending was necessary and that people would suffer if the programs were eliminated. The Republicans were led by Newt Gingrich who was Speaker of the House of Representatives and Bob Dole, the minority leader of the Senate. Of course, Bill Clinton was President
A very short, clear summary of the events can be found at the link http://www.worldlingo.com/ma/enwiki/en/Federal_government_shutdown_of_1995 . To read the transcript of a PBS newscast during the dramatic negotiations, go to the link http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/clinton/etc/11131995.html . The newscast is rather long, but if you read a some of it you'll get a sense of the tension surrounding the political fight in Washington.
Answer the following questions: How important is compromise in the political system? If we send elected officials to Washington to represent our beliefs and values, when is it appropriate for them to concede some of those beliefs in order to meet the other side in the middle? What is your opinion of the current budget battle? Are there differences between now and 1995? (Need I remind you that rude or disrespectful posts will be deleted, meaning that you will receive no credit for the assignment?).
The requirements for this assignment are exactly the same as all those that preceded it. Have a good week!
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Homework 8, Due February 25, 2011
As we’ve been studying the French Revolution and the individuals who played key roles in its beginning and its outcome, it is important to remember that it is ideas which are the great force that moves the course of history. God’s Word sets forth truth, yet humanity seems bent on finding its own way. For generations an idea proclaimed to be truth will create a political, social, and economic status quo, only to have another idea, usually its opposite, sweep it away.
Take recent theories on parenting, for instance. The generation that survived the Great Depression raised their children strictly, insisting on hard work, stern discipline, and thrift. The children came through World War II and experienced a fantastic economy in their early adulthood. The result is that they raised their children in a manner that was completely opposite to their own Spartan childhoods – they raised the Baby Boomer generation, which gave us the hippie movement and Jerry Garcia.
In like manner, the Enlightenment was a rejection of the conservatism and religious effects of the Reformation. Your assignment this week is to read about the Enlightenment and its chief pupil, Napoleon Bonaparte. Read the essay about the Enlightenment at http://www.mrdowling.com/705-enlightenment.html . On the same page (just an inch or so under the head line) you’ll see a link to an essay about the life of Napoleon. Read them both and answer these questions: How did the Enlightenment gain such popularity with Europeans? How did the ideas of the Enlightenment shape Napoleon? How much impact does the Enlightenment have on today’s society? (Give examples).
Remember the requirements of these assignments and make every effort to complete your work on time.
Take recent theories on parenting, for instance. The generation that survived the Great Depression raised their children strictly, insisting on hard work, stern discipline, and thrift. The children came through World War II and experienced a fantastic economy in their early adulthood. The result is that they raised their children in a manner that was completely opposite to their own Spartan childhoods – they raised the Baby Boomer generation, which gave us the hippie movement and Jerry Garcia.
In like manner, the Enlightenment was a rejection of the conservatism and religious effects of the Reformation. Your assignment this week is to read about the Enlightenment and its chief pupil, Napoleon Bonaparte. Read the essay about the Enlightenment at http://www.mrdowling.com/705-enlightenment.html . On the same page (just an inch or so under the head line) you’ll see a link to an essay about the life of Napoleon. Read them both and answer these questions: How did the Enlightenment gain such popularity with Europeans? How did the ideas of the Enlightenment shape Napoleon? How much impact does the Enlightenment have on today’s society? (Give examples).
Remember the requirements of these assignments and make every effort to complete your work on time.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Homework 7, Due February 18, 2011
This month has been designated "Black History Month" and in this week's assignment we will investigate some of the interesting facts about African-Americans in US history. When I was in school (not too long ago, I'd like to point out), especially in younger grades, the history of black Americans was largely overlooked in many textbooks. For instance, slavery was hardly mentioned in chapters dealing with life in the early years of the US. Today historians are quick to point out that in order to understand the past we must learn about the lives of all parts of historical society - the rich and poor, the notable individuals as well as those who lived in obscurity. This assignment is meant to give you an opportunity to research some of the important contributions made by African-Americans and help you better understand the complicated history of the US.
Start by going to the link http://www.africanamericanhistorymonth.gov/teachers.html . Under the tab labelled "National Archives" choose a lesson to read and review. Summarize your findings IN YOUR OWN WORDS and explain what can be understood about the history of the US from those documents.
I hope you enjoy this assignment. The documents are made available by the US government's Library of Congress. Remember to meet the requirements of all history assignments.
Start by going to the link http://www.africanamericanhistorymonth.gov/teachers.html . Under the tab labelled "National Archives" choose a lesson to read and review. Summarize your findings IN YOUR OWN WORDS and explain what can be understood about the history of the US from those documents.
I hope you enjoy this assignment. The documents are made available by the US government's Library of Congress. Remember to meet the requirements of all history assignments.
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Homework 6, Due February 11, 2011
As I sit here ignoring the Super Bowl, it occurs to me that it might be fun for you to do some research about the history of sports franchises in the US. So here's your assignment: research and report the history of a current day professional sports team of your choice. When was the team founded? What major changes have taken place since the team's inception? What have been the highlights of the franchise's history, and who stands out as the biggest star/stars? Hmm, and two bonus points on the next test if you let me know privately which major league baseball team used to take spring training in Kentucky!
Some of today's teams have been around for more than one hundred years but have seen notable changes. For instance, did you know that the Atlanta Braves were once called the Boston Beaneaters? Or that the New York Yankees were once known as the Baltimore Orioles? Or that the LA Dodgers were originally known as the Brooklyn Trolley Dodgers? (That name actually makes sense, though, unlike another name they used for nearly a decade - the Brooklyn Bridegrooms, which I guess you could think of as "the unsuccessful dodgers"...).
A good place to start researching Major Leage Baseball teams would be http://www.baseball-almanac.com/teammenu.shtml . If you aren't interested in baseball, how about football? Did you know that the oldest professional football team is the Arizona Cardinals - who began in 1898 as the Racine Street Cardinals? They also won the first National Football League championship in 1925 - against the Pottsville Maroons. You can start looking for information at the link http://www.nflteamhistory.com/nfl_team_history.html . Professional basketball hasn't been around as long but you can start looking for information at http://www.rauzulusstreet.com/basketball/nba/nbahistory.htm .
In addition to discussing the team's history, please share your opinion about why people are such sports fans. Are you a sports fan? Why or why not? Happy hunting! Remember that you must meet all homework requirements - and that NO POINTS WILL BE AWARDED FOR PLAGIARIZED WORK!
Some of today's teams have been around for more than one hundred years but have seen notable changes. For instance, did you know that the Atlanta Braves were once called the Boston Beaneaters? Or that the New York Yankees were once known as the Baltimore Orioles? Or that the LA Dodgers were originally known as the Brooklyn Trolley Dodgers? (That name actually makes sense, though, unlike another name they used for nearly a decade - the Brooklyn Bridegrooms, which I guess you could think of as "the unsuccessful dodgers"...).
A good place to start researching Major Leage Baseball teams would be http://www.baseball-almanac.com/teammenu.shtml . If you aren't interested in baseball, how about football? Did you know that the oldest professional football team is the Arizona Cardinals - who began in 1898 as the Racine Street Cardinals? They also won the first National Football League championship in 1925 - against the Pottsville Maroons. You can start looking for information at the link http://www.nflteamhistory.com/nfl_team_history.html . Professional basketball hasn't been around as long but you can start looking for information at http://www.rauzulusstreet.com/basketball/nba/nbahistory.htm .
In addition to discussing the team's history, please share your opinion about why people are such sports fans. Are you a sports fan? Why or why not? Happy hunting! Remember that you must meet all homework requirements - and that NO POINTS WILL BE AWARDED FOR PLAGIARIZED WORK!
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Homework 5, Due February 4, 2011
Here's hoping for a complete week of school! The winter weather has certainly disrupted the semester so far, but here we are at the midpoint with only a few weeks left to shore up your grades. Although this is Spirit Week (go Cougars!) please be prepared for an energetic and rigorous work week!
In light of the amazing uprisings in Tunisia and Egypt over the last week I feel that it is appropriate to step away from our focus period and take a look at world events. You might be surprised that the US is so involved in the Egyptian crisis, but the regime of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak has been a close supporter of America over the last 30 years and has kept peace with Israel (Egypt was the first Arab country to sign a peace agreement with Israel during the 1980s). Unfortunately there is ample evidence to suggest that President Mubarak has limited the rights of Egyptians (hundreds are arrested and tortured on a weekly basis, accused of minor crimes) and has allowed an economy to develop that has made a very small minority extremely wealthy (think billionaires) while many live in terrible poverty (less than $2 a day).
The US provides Egypt with about $2.5 billion a year, much of it in military aid (if you've been watching the events on the news, you've seen the tear gas and fighter jets - all of which were produced in the US and paid for by US tax money...yours!). Why would the US government provide such support? Because Egypt is a loyal ally that a) has loads of oil; b) controls the Suez Canal (through which comes much of the oil that Americans use); and c) is NOT a radical Muslim regime that threatens to attack Israel.
Of course we hope that what comes out of the protests is a "peaceful transition" to democratic government with greater freedom and economic opportunity for its citizens. However, in 1979 we witnessed a very similar chain of events in Iran. It might surprise you to know that Iran was a very close ally of the US during the time it was ruled by the "Shah", but many people, especially young radical Muslims, were unhappy with his rule and forced the Shah to flee the country. It happened so quickly that many American embassy workers were unable to get out of the country. Most of those US citizens spent the next 15 months as hostages while President Jimmy Carter unsuccessfully to free them. The hostages were finally released on the very day the President Ronald Reagan took office, but I'll comment on that in a moment.
Your homework this week is to research the Iran Hostage Crisis on the link http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/shared/spl/hi/picture_gallery/04/middle_east_iran_hostage_crisis/html/1.stm . As you examine the photos and read the summary I want you to consider the possibility that a similar situation could occur in Egypt and answer the following questions: How should the US react to these events? If you were speaking for the President, what would you tell the Egyptian citizens? Considering Iran, what should the US have done to free the hostages? Should the US military have invaded, given the dangers of starting an all-out war and maybe causing the execution of the hostages?
I will make a couple of observations: first, there are those that suspect that Reagan and his team had a secret deal with the Iranians to keep the hostages in captivity until he became president. There is absolutely no evidence to prove this but after Carter worked for their release for more than a year it's embarrassing to some that Reagan gets the credit. Of course, during the election Reagan had hinted that he would do whatever it took to get the hostages out, and it's likely the Iranians feared an immediate attack.
Second, of special significance to us is that one of the hostages, Terry Waite, is now a professor at UK in the department of Diplomacy and Foreign Affairs. He is a recognized expert in world politics and is on major news networks nearly every week informing Americans about current events.
The requirements of this assignment are exactly the same as those that preceded it. Have a good week!
In light of the amazing uprisings in Tunisia and Egypt over the last week I feel that it is appropriate to step away from our focus period and take a look at world events. You might be surprised that the US is so involved in the Egyptian crisis, but the regime of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak has been a close supporter of America over the last 30 years and has kept peace with Israel (Egypt was the first Arab country to sign a peace agreement with Israel during the 1980s). Unfortunately there is ample evidence to suggest that President Mubarak has limited the rights of Egyptians (hundreds are arrested and tortured on a weekly basis, accused of minor crimes) and has allowed an economy to develop that has made a very small minority extremely wealthy (think billionaires) while many live in terrible poverty (less than $2 a day).
The US provides Egypt with about $2.5 billion a year, much of it in military aid (if you've been watching the events on the news, you've seen the tear gas and fighter jets - all of which were produced in the US and paid for by US tax money...yours!). Why would the US government provide such support? Because Egypt is a loyal ally that a) has loads of oil; b) controls the Suez Canal (through which comes much of the oil that Americans use); and c) is NOT a radical Muslim regime that threatens to attack Israel.
Of course we hope that what comes out of the protests is a "peaceful transition" to democratic government with greater freedom and economic opportunity for its citizens. However, in 1979 we witnessed a very similar chain of events in Iran. It might surprise you to know that Iran was a very close ally of the US during the time it was ruled by the "Shah", but many people, especially young radical Muslims, were unhappy with his rule and forced the Shah to flee the country. It happened so quickly that many American embassy workers were unable to get out of the country. Most of those US citizens spent the next 15 months as hostages while President Jimmy Carter unsuccessfully to free them. The hostages were finally released on the very day the President Ronald Reagan took office, but I'll comment on that in a moment.
Your homework this week is to research the Iran Hostage Crisis on the link http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/shared/spl/hi/picture_gallery/04/middle_east_iran_hostage_crisis/html/1.stm . As you examine the photos and read the summary I want you to consider the possibility that a similar situation could occur in Egypt and answer the following questions: How should the US react to these events? If you were speaking for the President, what would you tell the Egyptian citizens? Considering Iran, what should the US have done to free the hostages? Should the US military have invaded, given the dangers of starting an all-out war and maybe causing the execution of the hostages?
I will make a couple of observations: first, there are those that suspect that Reagan and his team had a secret deal with the Iranians to keep the hostages in captivity until he became president. There is absolutely no evidence to prove this but after Carter worked for their release for more than a year it's embarrassing to some that Reagan gets the credit. Of course, during the election Reagan had hinted that he would do whatever it took to get the hostages out, and it's likely the Iranians feared an immediate attack.
Second, of special significance to us is that one of the hostages, Terry Waite, is now a professor at UK in the department of Diplomacy and Foreign Affairs. He is a recognized expert in world politics and is on major news networks nearly every week informing Americans about current events.
The requirements of this assignment are exactly the same as those that preceded it. Have a good week!
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Homework 4, Due January 28, 2011
As we continue to study the Reformation, this week's homework will give you an opportunity to do some meaningful research. We'll return to www.worldbookonline.com and use the school's subcription: the user id is "scs"; the password is "cougars". Chose the student version (not children) and search for "Reformation". This should provide you with more than 130 articles, several pictures, and a recommended web site.
Your assignment is to research an aspect of the Reformation with which you are unfamiliar and report your findings. Were you living in that era, would you act as the reformers did? Would you be willing to face the powerful resistance for the promotion of what you see as truth? Include the answers to those questions in your response.
As before, your essay must be at least 200 words in length. You must respond to at least two other essays (a total of 150 words in response). Please be respectful and thoughtful with your comments. Have a great week!
Your assignment is to research an aspect of the Reformation with which you are unfamiliar and report your findings. Were you living in that era, would you act as the reformers did? Would you be willing to face the powerful resistance for the promotion of what you see as truth? Include the answers to those questions in your response.
As before, your essay must be at least 200 words in length. You must respond to at least two other essays (a total of 150 words in response). Please be respectful and thoughtful with your comments. Have a great week!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Homework 3, Due January 21, 2011
Although we will be talking this week about the great reformers who ushered in the age of Protestantism I will delay an assignment about the topic until next week. (Remember that you have a test on Tuesday of this week!). Instead, in honor of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I want to pause to reflect on the Civil Rights movement as it transpired in the state of Kentucky. While we spend a great deal more time discussing the topic in US History it is important to note that the issues of civil rights are very central to the human story of world history. It is in fact one of the great forces behind the development of western civilizations - that notion that "all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights".
The Kentucky Historical Society has constructed a wonderful website dealing with the Civil Rights movement in Kentucky. It can be accessed at the link http://205.204.134.47/civil_rights_mvt/ . The stories that are told are available in print and oral (and sometimes video) format. Browse the topics available and report back on two interviews (include identifying information such as name, location if given, etc.) You can download the free software that will allow you to hear the actual interviews or simply read the transcripts. What do these interviews teach you about life in Kentucky during the era? How different are things today? Is racial inequality still an issue that must be addressed? If so, how? If not, why? Please be respectful in your comments.
Thank you very much and enjoy your three-day weekend!
The Kentucky Historical Society has constructed a wonderful website dealing with the Civil Rights movement in Kentucky. It can be accessed at the link http://205.204.134.47/civil_rights_mvt/ . The stories that are told are available in print and oral (and sometimes video) format. Browse the topics available and report back on two interviews (include identifying information such as name, location if given, etc.) You can download the free software that will allow you to hear the actual interviews or simply read the transcripts. What do these interviews teach you about life in Kentucky during the era? How different are things today? Is racial inequality still an issue that must be addressed? If so, how? If not, why? Please be respectful in your comments.
Thank you very much and enjoy your three-day weekend!
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Homework 2, Due January 14, 2011
This week we are discussing the beginning of European exploration into the new world. While we will focus on those explorers who came to the western hemisphere it is important to remember that Euopean explorers visited every continent and opended trade with many countries. While it is easy to explain their motivation to explore in terms of economics (some explorers became extremely wealthy) there was also a strong lure for the curious mind to experience the wonders of the world.
This week's homework assignment requires you to visit the website "Voyage of Exploration" at the link http://library.thinkquest.org/C001692/english/index.php3?subject=home . There is a short introductory slide show that you should skip if you are having difficulty in getting it to play. Then you must select a "great explorer" from the database and tell the story of his adventures. Where does your explorer fall in comparison to other well-known explorers (you'll find the information on the timeline). What was the purpose of the expedition? What were the tools of navigation used? What motivated your chosen explorer? (Hint: you'll find information about each of these questions at the various tabs in the web site).
Finally, read the article "What is Next to be Discovered" under the New Horizons tab (it is a few pages long, make sure you hit the "next" link at the end of the page). Then I'd like you to summarize your thoughts about where your generation will add its own chapter to the history of exploration. What are the areas in which our society faces its greatest needs? Do you think that your generation will make important contributions to human knowledge? Why?
The requirements for this assignment are exactly the same as those that preceded it. Thank you and have a great week!
This week's homework assignment requires you to visit the website "Voyage of Exploration" at the link http://library.thinkquest.org/C001692/english/index.php3?subject=home . There is a short introductory slide show that you should skip if you are having difficulty in getting it to play. Then you must select a "great explorer" from the database and tell the story of his adventures. Where does your explorer fall in comparison to other well-known explorers (you'll find the information on the timeline). What was the purpose of the expedition? What were the tools of navigation used? What motivated your chosen explorer? (Hint: you'll find information about each of these questions at the various tabs in the web site).
Finally, read the article "What is Next to be Discovered" under the New Horizons tab (it is a few pages long, make sure you hit the "next" link at the end of the page). Then I'd like you to summarize your thoughts about where your generation will add its own chapter to the history of exploration. What are the areas in which our society faces its greatest needs? Do you think that your generation will make important contributions to human knowledge? Why?
The requirements for this assignment are exactly the same as those that preceded it. Thank you and have a great week!
Monday, January 3, 2011
Homework 1, Due January 7, 2011
Welcome back! I hope your Christmas break was refreshing. This week we will be discussing the English Civil War known as the War of the Roses. Your assignment is to research a battle or important individual and report your findings. You will find important information to get you started at the site http://warsoftheroses.com/ . Remember that you will receive no points for plagiarized material! The requirements for this assignment are exactly the same as those that preceded it.
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