LAD #10: Monroe Doctrine

The Monroe Doctrine was an address given by President Monroe to Congress on December 2nd, 1983.

It begins by stating that the Russian Imperial Government wishes to negotiate with the United States for a compromise involving territory or colonies. England has made a similar attempt as well, and the United States wishes to remain friendly and neutral. Despite this, Monroe has decided that the American continent is off-limits to future colonization by other powers.

The United States has been having problems with the way Spain and Portugal have been treating their colonies. American citizens feel some responsibility to these people because they live in the same general region. The Doctrine goes on to refresh the idea of neutrality, especially the American plan to step in only when our own rights are being denied. It acknowledges that the beliefs of the European powers are fundamentally different from those of America, and reflects on America's decisions and peace-making processes. America's relationships with these powers should be relied upon to make decisions about what kind of control we want over our hemisphere. Monroe declares that the United States will not interfere with preexisting colonies, but will defend the independence of those who declare it. Any hostility against these countries will be regarded as an act of hostility towards the United States.

The problems between European countries, particularly Spain and Portugal, are an issue, and Monroe says to this that the American policy of neutrality will not change. He confirms that the allied powers cannot spread their influence to the American continents without disturbing American peace. He intends to set America up as a role model for other countries to consider a similar course in foreign policy.

LAD #9: Jefferson's First Inaugural Address

Jefferson begins his address with a humble opening in which he praises America, the Constitution, and those who have upheld it. He sounds almost astonished that America has been able to accomplish so much in such a short period of time, and that he hopes to continue the legacy.

He continues with a strong statement about the unity of the American leaders, people, and governments and acknowledges its necessity. He takes this a step further by implying that Americans need to work together to prove America’s place in the world. He acknowledges differences in opinions throughout the world and further emphasizes his idea of American unity. He plays off this by looking critically at dissenting opinions within the United States and showing his pride in their current republican government while understanding that the common man may not think the same way.

From there he goes into America’s federal and republican principles and goals. He insists that the happiness of the general population depends on a wise and fair government, which he believes they have and is determined to keep in place. He speaks earnestly about equal rights and precedents to be set for later generations.

Jefferson’s personal political beliefs are then brought up. He believes in freedom as described in the United States Constitution, social equality, and neutrality and friendship with all nations above everything else. He mentions Federalism and the rights of the states, and makes a statement about the General Government, and that civil governmental authority triumphs over military authority. He again mentions freedom, restating the First Amendment, and the preservation of commerce and agriculture. He believes that these principles guided the American people through the tumultuous years of revolution and reformation and they are the correct path to continue on.

In conclusion,  Jefferson pledges his allegiance to the American people and apologizes in advance for any mistakes he may make. He ends with his highest goal of peace and prosperity for the American people.

Columbus Blog #8

Christopher Columbus was a historically prominent figure who immensely furthered the exploration and usage of the Americas. During a trip in which he was attempting to sail to Asia from Western Europe, Columbus found instead the Americas and for quite awhile, mistook the new continents for those he was looking for, going so far as to refer to the Native Americans he encountered as "Indians." This misconception is still accepted and widely used today. His voyage resulted in newfound European involvement in North and South America, along with the Caribbean islands. Columbus had a profound, lasting impact on the Americas, which can be construed as positive or negative.

It is easy enough to portray Christopher Columbus in a positive light. His bravery attests to that. In a time of faith and old-fashioned ideas, Columbus believed firmly and correctly that the world was round, and because of this belief accepted a mission that no one had ever embarked on before. He ended up stumbling upon the Americas, which was only a side effect of his goal but had a massive impact on global perception, commerce, and culture. His "discovery" of America, the Columbian exchange, and proof that the world is indeed round are all tribute to his perseverance of personal beliefs and bravery.

Columbus's negative effects on the Native American populations are horrifying and well-documented, which throws his life and all of his achievements into question. In his search for riches, Columbus and his men slaughtered and diseased entire populations of natives, with little or no thought for their culture. Columbus's inherently bad motive and actions in the Americas towards the natives makes one wonder if he is fit to have a glorified place in history at all.

In conclusion, Columbus was both a hero and a villain to some, but despite opening the doorway for centuries of Native American oppression, his actions led the world in an entirely new direction and he is absolutely crucial to world history.