These are time sensitive. You do not receive credit if you write them after the deadline each week. Furthermore, if you are in the habit of writing everything on Saturday you will not receive full credit. Why? There would be no time for others to interact with your writing. Write early; write often! Right? Right!
First, there's a blog entry (about 250 words) which will have you respond to a hopefully thought-provoking question. Each week, you must do the blog entry with enough time left in the week to be able to enter into dialogue online with your classmates. Write, reply, write more, reply more, and then write and reply more.
Second, there's a reading. There’s no blog entry associated with this. Just read.
Third, there's a written response to the reading. Your reading and writing on the blog must be completed by the SATURDAY (by midnight) of the week in which the reading falls. This entry should be a long paragraph. YOU DO NOT NEED TO RESPOND TO OTHER STUDENTS' PART THREE EACH WEEK.
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
WEEK SEVEN WRITING ABOUT WHAT YOU READ
Of the events or moments listed, which one do you most AGREE OR DISAGREE WITH AND WHY?
Ken Burns’ comment: I agree that, though not a great event, this wrong turn basically helped start two world wars. Had the archduke not been assassinated, things would be very different as far as Historical events, allies and enemies made from the wars, and even the immigration, births, and deaths brought on from these wars would have changed the world’s history greatly Timothy Snyder’s comment: I’m not sure that this really made a huge difference in European history. It might have changed some things and altered the course of events a bit, but I’m not sure that it was history-altering in the way that the signing of the declaration of independence was. Christina Paxson’s comment: The day of the invention of the printing press was, indeed, a historical one. Without this invention, writing, publishing, and even computers may not have ever progressed to the point they are at now. Phillip Jenkins’ comment: The mistake of Operation Barbarossa dramatically changed the course of history in that the entire world (outside of North America) could be under Nazi rule to this day. That is a very frightening reality to ponder. Neera Tanden’s comment: I definitely agree that the day women gained the right to vote, history changed in very many ways. For example, with this winning of the right to vote, a minority group was empowered. With this empowering, the right for women to vote paved the way for many other values of opportunity and equality for minorities. Paul Kennedy’s comment: The steam engine is another hugely important American invention. Without the steam engine, goods could not be transported to parts of the country far away from where the goods were grown or manufactured. This changed the way we, as Americans, received goods, travelled, and experienced the country. Freeman Dyson The asteroid that presumably hit the Earth changed things for living creatures on the planet. Without this happening, we may not (at least in the way things were believed to have happened) have been able to live. However, depending on one’s beliefs, God could have used any other means to allow for human existence. Diana Gabaldon’s comment: Leeuwenhoek’s invention of the microscope led to many scientific studies and discoveries throughout history. Without the invention of the microscope, the world of science may not have succeeded as it has to this day. K. Kamau Bell’s comment: Though Bell’s comment is perhaps somewhat of a joke, it is rather true that Michael Jackson changed things, not only in the musical world, but the culture of the world as a whole. Though I do not see him as a history altering figure, nor do I see Obama as a “walking sequin”, I see Bell’s point that culture, too, is important. Oliver Stone’s comment: I had not thought of the fact of his comment before reading it. It’s interesting that our relationship with the Soviet Union may be quite different if Truman had not won the election. However, it isn’t certain that we would become enemies in a similar or different way. Anne-Marie Slaughter’s comment: I agree that the signing of the Declaration of Independence is one of the most important dates in history, not only for the United States, but the whole world. The individualism that came from the patriots who signed the declaration is something that changed the world for the better.
I agree with mostly all of the comments except for three. I agree with Ken Burns because those two world wars was some of the biggest wars in world history. I agree with Christina Paxson because that invention was the beginning of how communication has changed over the years. I agree with Philip Jenkins because if it wasn't for that operation, then Nazism would have been longer or still going on till this day. I agree with Neera Tangen because that was a very important day for women and America in general and a step towards equality in the US. I agree with Paul Kennedy because without the making of the steam engine, our only transportation would be planes, cars, and ferries. I agree with Freeman Dyson because if that didn't happen then there would still be dinosaurs here in the 21st century. I agree with Diana Gabaldon because the invention of the microscope has helped people have a closer look on other people, places, and things. I agree with Anne Marie Slaughter because the Declaration of Independence was a slow start for America to become somewhat equal. I disagree with Timothy Snyder, W. Kamau Bell, and Oliver Stone. I disagree with these three because Tim was mostly talking about Europe, not about what his answer has to do with the US. With W. Kamau Bell, I don't think that everyone thinks that African Americans are magical. With Oliver Stone, we don't know for sure whether Wallace was going to drop that bomb on Japan or not if he was president.
I agree with Neera Taden, giving women the right to vote has been a great accomplishment in the world. Before this law passed, this country was controlled by white men. Now, although it is not entirely equal, there has been huge improvements. Since August 26, 1920, there has been many powerful and influential women who have made this country, and world, a better place. Without this, there would be a lot of women who would not be allowed to have their voice heard. This was a stepping stone to make this country more equal and give more opportunities to those who once did not. Over time, women have proven themselves to be intelligent and interested in making the country better. An example of a women who has helped our country is Hillary Clinton. She was the first lady, ran for the Democratic presidential nominee, and became the secretary of state. If it was not for this law, she, and many others, would not have been able to accomplish so much.
I would say that the day that most changed the history was when women gained the right to vote. If that history did not happen, women today would have not been able to vote until today. Fewer women would be on the workplace and probably women would’ve stayed at home to care for their families. Therefore, we salute for all the women back in 1920 that fought for the women’s right to vote. Women back then were not able to voice their opinions when it comes to voting, but with their great efforts and accomplishment, the 19th amendment was passed. The 19th amendment was the key for women to be able to get an education, work like men do, and voice their opinions when it comes to important and serious situations. Women also fought for minority rights through women’s movement and this was when the civil rights era was accomplished. Women as of now have decent job like men. They can support themselves without men around. They can do anything a man can do. For example, when WWII happened, women stepped into the workforce. They took over jobs for men when they took off to fight for our country, they ran factories and made bombs. They led the movement for social reform. Basically did everything what men did and this just prove that women can think like a men. Men and women now do things equally. If the 19th amendment was not passed, all the sacrifices that women have done would not have been recognized.
I would have to agree with Neera Tanden about women having the right to vote. Before race and sex was unequal. It gave me the opportunity to voice out my opinions. Man and woman have highly increased with becoming equal, even though it took a while. Without this, I would not think I would be the person who I am this day. I can express my feelings, have a choice to do the things I want, and have the ability to go to school to any choice of major I want. We all do not have to be a stay at home mom, a school teacher, or nurse. We can choose to be an engineer or doctor if we want to. Another opportunity it led to was voicing our opinions. The voting rights gave women the opportunity to grow and prove we are as equal and just as smart as men.
Honestly, none of these moments the authors described immensely resonated with me, but if I had to choose one quote it would be Neera Tanden. Tanden choose August 26, 1920 as the most important day in history because it gave women the right to vote. I completely agree with this being an important day in history as half the population was finally allowed to have their voice heard. However, this right alone did not change the lives of the general population to “live up to its fundamental values of opportunity and equality” as Tanden states. After all, equality and equal opportunity for all people still has not been achieved today. Perhaps Tanden intended to say that it encouraged people to work harder to achieve equality. I do not think it is possible for anyone to pinpoint an exact moment in history that is more important than all the rest. Maybe this day has not come or was not recorded properly in the past. The funniest quote was W. Kamau Bell’s quote about Michael Jackson and the moonwalk. Bell referred to black people as magical and President Obama as a shiny sequin. Despite the absurdity of this comment I cannot help but agree with Bell. Michael Jackson changed the world with his pop music and brought people of all ethnicities together with his fancy dance moves. Who does not know the moon walk? Michael Jackson made huge leaps for African Americans in general and helped America see them in a new light.
I agree most with Ann-Marie Slaughter's statement about July 4, 1776. Without this crucial day in history, modern America would not exist as we know it. I'm not sure how our country would exist without the Declaration of Independence. I also agree with Neera Tanden's statement about women's suffrage. It is interesting because my birthday is August 26th so I was immediately drawn to that day. I'm proud to say that women got the right to vote on my birthday! So thanks to all the women's rights crusaders I also get to vote many decades later. Equality in our country still has a long way to go. But I think about other countries in the world and realize how lucky we really are. As a woman, I feel like I have a voice in this country and have the potential to do anything I want to do.
I would have to disagree with Ken Burns' statement mainly because i think he is adding a spin to the story. I don't think that the carriage driver intentionally took the wrong turn, but was trying to keep people away from Franz Ferdinand. However, i do agree that the assassination of Franz essentially started WWI and WWII indirectly. In Christina H. Paxon's statement i completely agree with her. Mainly, because the printing press was an efficient way to communicate from cities and towns that were miles apart. Rules and laws that were implemented at the capital would finally reach little rural towns miles away from the capital. I found the quote by Kamau bell very humorous because he describes black people as magic, and Obama a walking sequin. I am not going to lie Michael Jackson was a pop icon who brought the world of dance under one umbrella. His dance moves like the moonwalk revolutionized music and dance, which is an amazing accomplishment, which is why he is praised all over the world. The day women gained the right to vote in the U.S. is one of the most profound moments in U.S. history. Without the women's vote, their voice would not be heard nor would they have the opportunities that they have today. Freeman Dyson's quote is somewhat open ended for interpretation because i can't really agree or disagree if this was an important event in world history. I mean i can somewhat imagine living with dinosaurs because there are some marine animals that date back to the prehistoric era. However, i don't know what it would be like to live with a raptor. I guess i agree that the asteroid wiped out the majority of the dinosaurs.
I completely disagree with W. Kamau Bell statement, “…Michael Jackson first performed the moonwalk on TV. I think it’s one of the reasons we have a black president today. People went, WOW, black people are sort of magical. And Barack Obama is basically a walking sequin.” Bell is completely ignorant. Michael Jackson moonwalking on TV has no correlation with having a black president. Bell’s remark is rude and stupid. Bell’s remark caught my attention first, when he mentioned Michael Jackson. That is the only reason I continued to read. I would have agreed if he stated something along the lines, that the moonwalk was a signature move that will forever be owned by Michael Jackson. Perhaps, Michael Jackson’s moonwalk has inspired many singers/dancers, such as, Usher.
I disagree with Philip Jenkins in which he states that Operation Barbossa had such a powerful impact on determining in which way the war went. I feel like it was a combination of multiple battles, as opposed to just one battle that directed in which way the war would proceed. One of the main factors that influenced the war is the Unites States fully engaging in the war effort against Nazi Germany and its Axis powers.
In response to Christina H. Paxsons’ comment, the printing press was indeed a huge addition in aiding civilization to proceed and spread knowledge. Had it not been for the printing press books would not have been written nor important could have been saved on ink. In addition, I agree how it refers to different ideas becoming more accessible. It is through the printing press that books got circulated; as a result, people could pass on their ideas and knowledge onto later generations. It also helped into making copies of books in a faster and more efficient way.
In my opinion, the event that held the most truth would have to have been "Ken Burns, documentary filmmaker June 28, 1914. Franz Ferdinand’s carriage driver took a wrong turn and they ended up in a cul-de-sac, giving the Serbian nationalist Gavrilo Princip a chance to kill the archduke." This event was coincidental but held consequence to future events. I feel that if that turn wasn't taken, events could have played out differently. This event had the most direct cause and effect situation. Because Ferdinand went the wrong way, Princip was given the opportunity. Following this was battles. These can be directly tied, to the event. Battles are fought because of people are dissatisfied with events that have occurred. People were likely to have been riled up fight by fight, like a flame that touches a single piece of paper in a room, the battles got bigger and more violent, leading to war.
I agree most with Anne-Marie Slaughter in saying that the Declaration of Independence paved the way for the fight against the other aspects of society that were barriers for equality. Before America became independent of England, we were once made up multiple diverse colonies that were still under control by powerful European countries like England and France. Once we fought the war for independence, we made a huge statement that became imprinted in history. We made started a powerful idea that we are all alike and deserve fairness and equality. I also think that the United States is a symbol for hope for other countries when they fought for their independence. I remember reading in my Asian history class that many of the imperial colonies fought for independence with the help of leaders that looked up to past revolutionary leaders like George Washington and Martin Luther King. The very fact that America is a symbol of justice, equality, and opportunity is a reason for defending all the other fights for injustices in other aspects of society life. Because our country was built on powerful ethics principles, we can go on and apply the necessary ethics to the specific aspects of our life that need to be improved. Already the idea that we were created equal and deserve equal treatment is being applied to gender differences, ethnic differences, and much more. I believe the Declaration of Independence has paved the way for this and much more changes of equality to come.
Anne-Marie's suggestion that the signing of the Declaration of Independence. She said that "it was the first public assertion of human equality as a legitimate rationale for political action." Although, I've always believed it to be an important document, seeing it as such an influential document was not something I had thought of. I doubt the founding fathers knew the amount of change that would come about because of their declaration but it has been a guide for our young nation. It is this declaration that gives us the flexibility to express our political values and use it as a tool to bring about change in the lives of anyone that lives in our nation
I agree with Christina H. Paxson’s statement about Johannes Gutenberg’s printing press. In olden times, the only way to obtain a duplicate copy of a book was to hand write the entire thing. Due to the inability to obtain books, many people did not bother to learn how to read. Once the wooden printing press was established, more and more books were able to be published with greater ease. Of course now a days our printing press is way more advanced. However, Mr. Gutenberg’s contribution has been a major stepping stone in the advancement of society. Anyone a can go to their local library and look for any book that they please.
I agree with Christina Paxson the most, personally. The printing press has always been a huge deal in the United States since its inception. Without the printing press we would not have advanced in the way we have today. News got out far faster with the press that utilized Guntenburg's printing press and it continued to get faster after people aw its potential. I honestly believe that keyboards would not have been as useful as they are today without the beginnings of the printing press. The media would not be as crazy as it is today either, honestly. If mass productions of magazines and papers never existed then the media would barely exist. The bottom line is that without the printing press being created we would never have advanced as a society. A majority of people would be left in the dark with any bit of news and the only ones lucky enough to get the scoop on any important information would have to live in a major place (LA, New York, San Francisco). Without it, there is no advancement. Masses could not get together around the world and communicate fast enough to get agendas done. Bottom line: her comment is right on and I 100% agree with her assumption that we would never have progressed as we have now without it.
I agree with Neera Tanden because women suffrage was an important accomplishment towards our basic human rights. Women have always been seen less then to men. They weren’t allowed to contribute to society. Before women didn’t have the right to learn about topics such as math and science, there also was a time when women were put on pedestals for the main purpose to look pretty and be the obedient wife they should be. I am glad that women had the courage to join together. They spoke up demanding their rights to be recognized as citizens. They too belonged to the country and had the same right to make decisions in choosing what was best for the country. This achievement gave women more power allowing women to break other barriers that were imposed on them. I believe every person no matter color, sex, age, race, religion, and many other characteristics should not be excluded or should be taken away their rights as human beings. I admire the women today who go against the people who say “you can’t” and go after their dreams. Women have been able to make some changes breaking down the stereotypes that are said about women.
I agree with the statement made by Philip Jenkins that Operation Barbarossa led to the defeat of the Nazis. As Jenkins states, Hitler sent about 3 million soldiers into the Soviet Union in an attempt to take control but failed. By invading the USSR, Hitler started a war in which he had to battle on two fronts, the east and the west. Even though the Nazis might have won a lot of the battles against the Soviets, they could not regularly reinforce the troops that were dying of attrition. Splitting the forces was a great strategic mistake that cost Hitler the war. I also agree with Jenkins’ statement that “it had looked as though dictators and militarists would soon rule virtually the whole world outside North America.” This is true because Hitler, a dictator, was attempting to take over Europe along with the Soviet Union and Stalin was the dictator of the USSR, one of the largest countries in the world, in terms of land mass. The US was led by a democratically elected president, while some of the other superpowers during world war 2 were led by dictators and militarists.
I agree most with Philip Jenkins, of Penn State University regarding the destruction of Nazism changing the course of history. Nazism viciously and inhumanely murdered millions of innocent lives of men, women, and children. Of these millions approximately six million were Jewish and 1.1 million were innocent souls of children. This was the worst time in the history of the world because so many people were killed for no reason at all. These people were humans with lives, children, dreams, and aspirations. The victims of the Holocaust had to endure pain and suffering at unimaginable levels and died at the cost of nothing. This was a time in history where individuals truly experienced hell on earth. That is why I agree with Philip Jenkins that the destruction of Nazism changed the course of history. I could not imagine if Nazism never came to a defeat by Operation Barbarossa, life in this world would continue to be Hell on earth.
Christina H. Paxson, president, Brown University The day Johannes Gutenberg finished his wooden printing press in 1440, Western civilization turned onto a path toward more efficient, accessible communication of knowledge. The ensuing democratization of ideas had a profound impact on societies in the second half of the second millennium.
Being able to give the masses the ability to read seems like a pretty amazing event in world history. Invention and innovation often leads the way to the biggest changes in history. Could you imagine having to pay someone to write your paper or pay someone to write anything? A world where every book was handwritten once existed. News was not abundant because information did not travel fast. People were less likely to learn how to read because it had to be hand written. Information had much more freedom to travel, with the invention of the printing press, much like the invention of the internet. With the free exchange of ideas come new paradigms of thought throughout the population of the masses. I can only wait for the day when the next innovation leads to information traveling even faster to more and more people.
I agree the most with Diana Gabaldon’s statement regarding Anton van Leewenhoek’s microscope. His microscope and discoveries led to the creation of much more advanced microscopes that would allow future generations to make enormous advances in microbiology. Without Leewenhoek’s microscope, today we might not be aware of microorganisms that are harmful to us, such as E. coli and Salmonella. Many of us might have been very sick, or even dead, if it were not for the tremendous amount of research stemming from Leewenhoek’s microscope. Events and moments stated besides this one might not have been able to occur due to an outbreak of illness as a result of lack of information regarding microorganisms and medication.
Ken Burns’ comment:
ReplyDeleteI agree that, though not a great event, this wrong turn basically helped start two world wars. Had the archduke not been assassinated, things would be very different as far as Historical events, allies and enemies made from the wars, and even the immigration, births, and deaths brought on from these wars would have changed the world’s history greatly
Timothy Snyder’s comment:
I’m not sure that this really made a huge difference in European history. It might have changed some things and altered the course of events a bit, but I’m not sure that it was history-altering in the way that the signing of the declaration of independence was.
Christina Paxson’s comment:
The day of the invention of the printing press was, indeed, a historical one. Without this invention, writing, publishing, and even computers may not have ever progressed to the point they are at now.
Phillip Jenkins’ comment:
The mistake of Operation Barbarossa dramatically changed the course of history in that the entire world (outside of North America) could be under Nazi rule to this day. That is a very frightening reality to ponder.
Neera Tanden’s comment:
I definitely agree that the day women gained the right to vote, history changed in very many ways. For example, with this winning of the right to vote, a minority group was empowered. With this empowering, the right for women to vote paved the way for many other values of opportunity and equality for minorities.
Paul Kennedy’s comment:
The steam engine is another hugely important American invention. Without the steam engine, goods could not be transported to parts of the country far away from where the goods were grown or manufactured. This changed the way we, as Americans, received goods, travelled, and experienced the country.
Freeman Dyson
The asteroid that presumably hit the Earth changed things for living creatures on the planet. Without this happening, we may not (at least in the way things were believed to have happened) have been able to live. However, depending on one’s beliefs, God could have used any other means to allow for human existence.
Diana Gabaldon’s comment:
Leeuwenhoek’s invention of the microscope led to many scientific studies and discoveries throughout history. Without the invention of the microscope, the world of science may not have succeeded as it has to this day.
K. Kamau Bell’s comment:
Though Bell’s comment is perhaps somewhat of a joke, it is rather true that Michael Jackson changed things, not only in the musical world, but the culture of the world as a whole. Though I do not see him as a history altering figure, nor do I see Obama as a “walking sequin”, I see Bell’s point that culture, too, is important.
Oliver Stone’s comment:
I had not thought of the fact of his comment before reading it. It’s interesting that our relationship with the Soviet Union may be quite different if Truman had not won the election. However, it isn’t certain that we would become enemies in a similar or different way.
Anne-Marie Slaughter’s comment:
I agree that the signing of the Declaration of Independence is one of the most important dates in history, not only for the United States, but the whole world. The individualism that came from the patriots who signed the declaration is something that changed the world for the better.
I agree with mostly all of the comments except for three. I agree with Ken Burns because those two world wars was some of the biggest wars in world history. I agree with Christina Paxson because that invention was the beginning of how communication has changed over the years. I agree with Philip Jenkins because if it wasn't for that operation, then Nazism would have been longer or still going on till this day. I agree with Neera Tangen because that was a very important day for women and America in general and a step towards equality in the US. I agree with Paul Kennedy because without the making of the steam engine, our only transportation would be planes, cars, and ferries. I agree with Freeman Dyson because if that didn't happen then there would still be dinosaurs here in the 21st century. I agree with Diana Gabaldon because the invention of the microscope has helped people have a closer look on other people, places, and things. I agree with Anne Marie Slaughter because the Declaration of Independence was a slow start for America to become somewhat equal. I disagree with Timothy Snyder, W. Kamau Bell, and Oliver Stone. I disagree with these three because Tim was mostly talking about Europe, not about what his answer has to do with the US. With W. Kamau Bell, I don't think that everyone thinks that African Americans are magical. With Oliver Stone, we don't know for sure whether Wallace was going to drop that bomb on Japan or not if he was president.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Neera Taden, giving women the right to vote has been a great accomplishment in the world. Before this law passed, this country was controlled by white men. Now, although it is not entirely equal, there has been huge improvements. Since August 26, 1920, there has been many powerful and influential women who have made this country, and world, a better place. Without this, there would be a lot of women who would not be allowed to have their voice heard. This was a stepping stone to make this country more equal and give more opportunities to those who once did not. Over time, women have proven themselves to be intelligent and interested in making the country better. An example of a women who has helped our country is Hillary Clinton. She was the first lady, ran for the Democratic presidential nominee, and became the secretary of state. If it was not for this law, she, and many others, would not have been able to accomplish so much.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. Few women would be in the workplace if the voting rights for women did not passed. Thank goodness it did.
DeleteI would say that the day that most changed the history was when women gained the right to vote. If that history did not happen, women today would have not been able to vote until today. Fewer women would be on the workplace and probably women would’ve stayed at home to care for their families. Therefore, we salute for all the women back in 1920 that fought for the women’s right to vote. Women back then were not able to voice their opinions when it comes to voting, but with their great efforts and accomplishment, the 19th amendment was passed. The 19th amendment was the key for women to be able to get an education, work like men do, and voice their opinions when it comes to important and serious situations. Women also fought for minority rights through women’s movement and this was when the civil rights era was accomplished. Women as of now have decent job like men. They can support themselves without men around. They can do anything a man can do. For example, when WWII happened, women stepped into the workforce. They took over jobs for men when they took off to fight for our country, they ran factories and made bombs. They led the movement for social reform. Basically did everything what men did and this just prove that women can think like a men. Men and women now do things equally. If the 19th amendment was not passed, all the sacrifices that women have done would not have been recognized.
ReplyDeleteI would have to agree with Neera Tanden about women having the right to vote. Before race and sex was unequal. It gave me the opportunity to voice out my opinions. Man and woman have highly increased with becoming equal, even though it took a while. Without this, I would not think I would be the person who I am this day. I can express my feelings, have a choice to do the things I want, and have the ability to go to school to any choice of major I want. We all do not have to be a stay at home mom, a school teacher, or nurse. We can choose to be an engineer or doctor if we want to. Another opportunity it led to was voicing our opinions. The voting rights gave women the opportunity to grow and prove we are as equal and just as smart as men.
ReplyDeleteHonestly, none of these moments the authors described immensely resonated with me, but if I had to choose one quote it would be Neera Tanden. Tanden choose August 26, 1920 as the most important day in history because it gave women the right to vote. I completely agree with this being an important day in history as half the population was finally allowed to have their voice heard. However, this right alone did not change the lives of the general population to “live up to its fundamental values of opportunity and equality” as Tanden states. After all, equality and equal opportunity for all people still has not been achieved today. Perhaps Tanden intended to say that it encouraged people to work harder to achieve equality. I do not think it is possible for anyone to pinpoint an exact moment in history that is more important than all the rest. Maybe this day has not come or was not recorded properly in the past. The funniest quote was W. Kamau Bell’s quote about Michael Jackson and the moonwalk. Bell referred to black people as magical and President Obama as a shiny sequin. Despite the absurdity of this comment I cannot help but agree with Bell. Michael Jackson changed the world with his pop music and brought people of all ethnicities together with his fancy dance moves. Who does not know the moon walk? Michael Jackson made huge leaps for African Americans in general and helped America see them in a new light.
ReplyDeleteI agree most with Ann-Marie Slaughter's statement about July 4, 1776. Without this crucial day in history, modern America would not exist as we know it. I'm not sure how our country would exist without the Declaration of Independence. I also agree with Neera Tanden's statement about women's suffrage. It is interesting because my birthday is August 26th so I was immediately drawn to that day. I'm proud to say that women got the right to vote on my birthday! So thanks to all the women's rights crusaders I also get to vote many decades later. Equality in our country still has a long way to go. But I think about other countries in the world and realize how lucky we really are. As a woman, I feel like I have a voice in this country and have the potential to do anything I want to do.
ReplyDeleteI would have to disagree with Ken Burns' statement mainly because i think he is adding a spin to the story. I don't think that the carriage driver intentionally took the wrong turn, but was trying to keep people away from Franz Ferdinand. However, i do agree that the assassination of Franz essentially started WWI and WWII indirectly. In Christina H. Paxon's statement i completely agree with her. Mainly, because the printing press was an efficient way to communicate from cities and towns that were miles apart. Rules and laws that were implemented at the capital would finally reach little rural towns miles away from the capital. I found the quote by Kamau bell very humorous because he describes black people as magic, and Obama a walking sequin. I am not going to lie Michael Jackson was a pop icon who brought the world of dance under one umbrella. His dance moves like the moonwalk revolutionized music and dance, which is an amazing accomplishment, which is why he is praised all over the world. The day women gained the right to vote in the U.S. is one of the most profound moments in U.S. history. Without the women's vote, their voice would not be heard nor would they have the opportunities that they have today. Freeman Dyson's quote is somewhat open ended for interpretation because i can't really agree or disagree if this was an important event in world history. I mean i can somewhat imagine living with dinosaurs because there are some marine animals that date back to the prehistoric era. However, i don't know what it would be like to live with a raptor. I guess i agree that the asteroid wiped out the majority of the dinosaurs.
ReplyDeleteI completely disagree with W. Kamau Bell statement, “…Michael Jackson first performed the moonwalk on TV. I think it’s one of the reasons we have a black president today. People went, WOW, black people are sort of magical. And Barack Obama is basically a walking sequin.”
ReplyDeleteBell is completely ignorant. Michael Jackson moonwalking on TV has no correlation with having a black president. Bell’s remark is rude and stupid. Bell’s remark caught my attention first, when he mentioned Michael Jackson. That is the only reason I continued to read. I would have agreed if he stated something along the lines, that the moonwalk was a signature move that will forever be owned by Michael Jackson. Perhaps, Michael Jackson’s moonwalk has inspired many singers/dancers, such as, Usher.
I disagree with Philip Jenkins in which he states that Operation Barbossa had such a powerful impact on determining in which way the war went. I feel like it was a combination of multiple battles, as opposed to just one battle that directed in which way the war would proceed. One of the main factors that influenced the war is the Unites States fully engaging in the war effort against Nazi Germany and its Axis powers.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Christina H. Paxsons’ comment, the printing press was indeed a huge addition in aiding civilization to proceed and spread knowledge. Had it not been for the printing press books would not have been written nor important could have been saved on ink. In addition, I agree how it refers to different ideas becoming more accessible.
It is through the printing press that books got circulated; as a result, people could pass on their ideas and knowledge onto later generations. It also helped into making copies of books in a faster and more efficient way.
In my opinion, the event that held the most truth would have to have been "Ken Burns, documentary filmmaker June 28, 1914. Franz Ferdinand’s carriage driver took a wrong turn and they ended up in a cul-de-sac, giving the Serbian nationalist Gavrilo Princip a chance to kill the archduke." This event was coincidental but held consequence to future events. I feel that if that turn wasn't taken, events could have played out differently. This event had the most direct cause and effect situation. Because Ferdinand went the wrong way, Princip was given the opportunity. Following this was battles. These can be directly tied, to the event. Battles are fought because of people are dissatisfied with events that have occurred. People were likely to have been riled up fight by fight, like a flame that touches a single piece of paper in a room, the battles got bigger and more violent, leading to war.
ReplyDeleteI agree most with Anne-Marie Slaughter in saying that the Declaration of Independence paved the way for the fight against the other aspects of society that were barriers for equality. Before America became independent of England, we were once made up multiple diverse colonies that were still under control by powerful European countries like England and France. Once we fought the war for independence, we made a huge statement that became imprinted in history. We made started a powerful idea that we are all alike and deserve fairness and equality. I also think that the United States is a symbol for hope for other countries when they fought for their independence. I remember reading in my Asian history class that many of the imperial colonies fought for independence with the help of leaders that looked up to past revolutionary leaders like George Washington and Martin Luther King. The very fact that America is a symbol of justice, equality, and opportunity is a reason for defending all the other fights for injustices in other aspects of society life. Because our country was built on powerful ethics principles, we can go on and apply the necessary ethics to the specific aspects of our life that need to be improved. Already the idea that we were created equal and deserve equal treatment is being applied to gender differences, ethnic differences, and much more. I believe the Declaration of Independence has paved the way for this and much more changes of equality to come.
ReplyDeleteAnne-Marie's suggestion that the signing of the Declaration of Independence. She said that "it was the first public assertion of human equality as a legitimate rationale for political action." Although, I've always believed it to be an important document, seeing it as such an influential document was not something I had thought of. I doubt the founding fathers knew the amount of change that would come about because of their declaration but it has been a guide for our young nation. It is this declaration that gives us the flexibility to express our political values and use it as a tool to bring about change in the lives of anyone that lives in our nation
ReplyDeleteI agree with Christina H. Paxson’s statement about Johannes Gutenberg’s printing press. In olden times, the only way to obtain a duplicate copy of a book was to hand write the entire thing. Due to the inability to obtain books, many people did not bother to learn how to read. Once the wooden printing press was established, more and more books were able to be published with greater ease. Of course now a days our printing press is way more advanced. However, Mr. Gutenberg’s contribution has been a major stepping stone in the advancement of society. Anyone a can go to their local library and look for any book that they please.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Christina Paxson the most, personally. The printing press has always been a huge deal in the United States since its inception. Without the printing press we would not have advanced in the way we have today. News got out far faster with the press that utilized Guntenburg's printing press and it continued to get faster after people aw its potential. I honestly believe that keyboards would not have been as useful as they are today without the beginnings of the printing press. The media would not be as crazy as it is today either, honestly. If mass productions of magazines and papers never existed then the media would barely exist. The bottom line is that without the printing press being created we would never have advanced as a society. A majority of people would be left in the dark with any bit of news and the only ones lucky enough to get the scoop on any important information would have to live in a major place (LA, New York, San Francisco). Without it, there is no advancement. Masses could not get together around the world and communicate fast enough to get agendas done. Bottom line: her comment is right on and I 100% agree with her assumption that we would never have progressed as we have now without it.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Neera Tanden because women suffrage was an important accomplishment towards our basic human rights. Women have always been seen less then to men. They weren’t allowed to contribute to society. Before women didn’t have the right to learn about topics such as math and science, there also was a time when women were put on pedestals for the main purpose to look pretty and be the obedient wife they should be. I am glad that women had the courage to join together. They spoke up demanding their rights to be recognized as citizens. They too belonged to the country and had the same right to make decisions in choosing what was best for the country. This achievement gave women more power allowing women to break other barriers that were imposed on them. I believe every person no matter color, sex, age, race, religion, and many other characteristics should not be excluded or should be taken away their rights as human beings. I admire the women today who go against the people who say “you can’t” and go after their dreams. Women have been able to make some changes breaking down the stereotypes that are said about women.
ReplyDeleteI agree with the statement made by Philip Jenkins that Operation Barbarossa led to the defeat of the Nazis. As Jenkins states, Hitler sent about 3 million soldiers into the Soviet Union in an attempt to take control but failed. By invading the USSR, Hitler started a war in which he had to battle on two fronts, the east and the west. Even though the Nazis might have won a lot of the battles against the Soviets, they could not regularly reinforce the troops that were dying of attrition. Splitting the forces was a great strategic mistake that cost Hitler the war. I also agree with Jenkins’ statement that “it had looked as though dictators and militarists would soon rule virtually the whole world outside North America.” This is true because Hitler, a dictator, was attempting to take over Europe along with the Soviet Union and Stalin was the dictator of the USSR, one of the largest countries in the world, in terms of land mass. The US was led by a democratically elected president, while some of the other superpowers during world war 2 were led by dictators and militarists.
ReplyDeleteI agree most with Philip Jenkins, of Penn State University regarding the destruction of Nazism changing the course of history. Nazism viciously and inhumanely murdered millions of innocent lives of men, women, and children. Of these millions approximately six million were Jewish and 1.1 million were innocent souls of children. This was the worst time in the history of the world because so many people were killed for no reason at all. These people were humans with lives, children, dreams, and aspirations. The victims of the Holocaust had to endure pain and suffering at unimaginable levels and died at the cost of nothing. This was a time in history where individuals truly experienced hell on earth. That is why I agree with Philip Jenkins that the destruction of Nazism changed the course of history. I could not imagine if Nazism never came to a defeat by Operation Barbarossa, life in this world would continue to be Hell on earth.
ReplyDeleteChristina H. Paxson, president, Brown University
ReplyDeleteThe day Johannes Gutenberg finished his wooden printing press in 1440, Western civilization turned onto a path toward more efficient, accessible communication of knowledge. The ensuing democratization of ideas had a profound impact on societies in the second half of the second millennium.
Being able to give the masses the ability to read seems like a pretty amazing event in world history. Invention and innovation often leads the way to the biggest changes in history. Could you imagine having to pay someone to write your paper or pay someone to write anything? A world where every book was handwritten once existed. News was not abundant because information did not travel fast. People were less likely to learn how to read because it had to be hand written. Information had much more freedom to travel, with the invention of the printing press, much like the invention of the internet. With the free exchange of ideas come new paradigms of thought throughout the population of the masses. I can only wait for the day when the next innovation leads to information traveling even faster to more and more people.
I agree the most with Diana Gabaldon’s statement regarding Anton van Leewenhoek’s microscope. His microscope and discoveries led to the creation of much more advanced microscopes that would allow future generations to make enormous advances in microbiology. Without Leewenhoek’s microscope, today we might not be aware of microorganisms that are harmful to us, such as E. coli and Salmonella. Many of us might have been very sick, or even dead, if it were not for the tremendous amount of research stemming from Leewenhoek’s microscope. Events and moments stated besides this one might not have been able to occur due to an outbreak of illness as a result of lack of information regarding microorganisms and medication.
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