Post Due: Tues., Oct. 10.
Thank for your insightful responses to the biographies of two great “Renaissance Men,” Benjamin Franklin and Venture Smith. As several of you pointed out, both were successful Americans and became successful through hard work. Franklin took full advantage of his access to books and taught himself how to read and write in a masterly way. Venture never learned to read. His autobiography was copied down by someone who was interested in his story, who wrote his story for him.
This week we turn to America’s remarkable break from British rule with the Revolutionary War (1776-1783). In some ways, it’s similar to the current fight for political independence that Ukraine is waging against an all-powerful Russian army under President Putin, who refuses to allow this claim to freedom.
The Revolutionary War officially starts in 1776 with the Declaration of Independence, written by Thomas Jefferson (and edited by John Adams and Benjamin Franklin). The Declaration claims that “All men are created equal,” but, ironically, Jefferson was himself a slave-holder (and had several children with his enslaved mistress Sally Hemings).
In the original draft of the Declaration, Jefferson blames the King of England for the slave trade, but this section (see section below) was cut out. In the end, neither the Declaration of Independence nor The Constitution (1789) (which established the three branches of government and included a Bill of Rights – the first 10 Amendments) abolished slavery in America.
Section Against Slavery – Cut from the Declaration of Independence
King George III has waged cruel war against human nature itself, violating it’s most sacred rights of life & liberty in the persons of a distant people [Africans] who never offended him, captivating & carrying them into slavery in another hemisphere, or to incur miserable death in their transportation thither. this piratical warfare, the opprobrium of infidel powers, is the warfare of the CHRISTIAN king of Great Britain. determined to keep open a market where MEN should be bought & sold […]
For this week, I ask you to (1) read the Declaration of Independence, focusing on its key message:
“We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their creator with inherent & inalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness”
(2) Read Phyllis Wheatley’s “Biography” and her most famous poem “On Being Brought from Africa to America” She is America’s first published poet, who wrote her poems while enslaved.
(3) Read this brief letter that Abigail Adams, wife of John Adams, wrote to her husband “to remember the ladies” when he was working with Jefferson to draft the Declaration of Independence.
(4) Watch my Video lecture on colonial New York Print Culture and Venture Smith. I produced this talk for an academic conference held in New York in 2020.
For next week’s post (due Tues., Oct. 10), I ask you to reflect on our founding documents (Declaration of Independence and the Constitution) and the back stories of Abigail Adams, Phyllis Wheatley, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and Venture Smith. In your post, discuss what you think works best (or is not working well at all) in America in regards to the workings of government or how it serves its citizens. Feel free to focus on women’s rights; human rights, election issues; the functioning of the Executive, Judiciary or Legislative Branches; the positive (or negative) legacies of the Declaration and/or Constitution; or perhaps connections to the Ukrainian fight for freedom.
To clarify the assignment a bit more. I’m asking that you reflect on the contradictions of our country as written in the documents you have been reading. A comment perhaps on how women did not get full rights in the Declaration and how they still lack full equality today (provide an example or two). You could also discuss a particular text as it relates to the Declaration or the US Constitution. You might want to focus, for example, on the notorious 3/5 clause in the Constitution (pertaining to slavery) . For those who have followed the craziness of the Republicans pushing out House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, you could speak to the dysfunction of our various gov’t branches (or the possibility of having a President who is a convicted criminal and perhaps even runs the country from jail). Is this what the framers of the Constitution intended?
I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Jimmy He Week 6
The Declaration of Independence’s key message of equality and inalienable rights stands as a cornerstone of American ideals. However, this message contradicts with the reality of its time. Women, enslaved individuals, and Indigenous people were not included in the equal rights and liberties that the Declaration proclaimed. These contradictions laid the foundation for centuries of struggle and inequality.
When looking at Abigail Adams’ story, you will notice her strong morals when it comes to women’s rights. She was ahead of her time in this regard and was one of the first women activists. Adams had strong feelings about marriage and believed women should take more part in decisions rather than simply serve their husbands. In fact, Abigail Adams’ wrote a letter urging her husband John Adams to “remember the ladies” during an era when women were systematically excluded from fundamental political participation. Unfortunately, the nation’s founding documents did not grant women full rights, and it took decades of activism to secure these rights. Even today, gender-based disparities persist, with unequal pay and underrepresentation in leadership roles.
Phyllis Wheatley’s life and work is a prime example of the strengths and contradictions of America’s government and its services to its citizens. Enslaved as a child, she nevertheless found her voice as a poet. Her poem “On Being Brought from Africa to America” reflects her complex relationship with Christianity and the brutal experience of the Middle Passage. Wheatley’s ability to write poems was second to none and shows that during a time of limited resources, individuals were able to express their thoughts and creativity. On the other hand, racial inequality remains a significant challenge in America. There are still racial disparities that persist in areas such as criminal justice, education and economic opportunity. Not to mention gender inequalities such as unequal pay are still very prevalent in today’s day and age. Wheatley’s story is a deep reminder that although America has done a great job in protecting the first amendment in free speech, there is still a long way to go.
The U.S. The Constitution is another example of a very important document with a few contradictions. The Constitution contains a troubling contradiction in its 3/5 Clause, which counted enslaved individuals as three-fifths of a person for representation purposes. Thomas Jefferson famously wrote “…all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their creator with inherent & inalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” while owning many slaves. Which means that all men are indeed not created equal.
Today, America faces numerous challenges in the functioning of its government. Political polarization, economic inequality, and the erosion of democratic norms can be seen as diverging from the framers’ original intentions. Recently, we have had problems such as the potential for a president with legal troubles to run the country from jail. This is very concerning because this has never been seen or done before. Our founding fathers would be in a state of absolute shock if they heard about this. This is an example of an issue that raises concerns about the effectiveness of checks and balances.
The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States have faced their share of contradictions and challenges, but it is still a very important document. These foundational documents have played pivotal roles in advancing civil rights and liberties through amendments. It is the foundation of this nation and is what holds America together till this day. However, there is still an ongoing fight for a fairer and more inclusive society. America’s work towards achieving gender equality, promoting racial justice and safeguarding democratic principles must remain continuous and unwavering.
Excellent running commentary on all of these writings Jimmy.
I really like your emphasis on the fact that ” Women, enslaved individuals, and Indigenous people were not included in the equal rights and liberties that the Declaration proclaimed. These contradictions laid the foundation for centuries of struggle and inequality.”
The documents and articles provided offer a fascinating glimpse into the complexities and contradictions that have shaped the United States throughout its history. While the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution provided the groundwork for a new society founded on the values of liberty and equality, reality frequently fell short of these goals.
5. Abigail Adams Reminds John Adams to “Remember the Ladies”: Abigail Adams’ letter to her husband John Adams is a plea for gender equality. She correctly points out the contradiction that, even as the new nation sought independence and freedom from British domination, women were still denied basic rights and opportunities. Her remarks ring true in the ongoing fight for gender equality in the United States.
In summary, these sources and articles highlight the contradictions inherent in the United States’ early history. Despite the fact that the country was founded on the ideas of liberty and equality, it faced difficulties such as slavery, gender inequality, and the disenfranchisement of marginalized groups. These contradictions continue to resonate in American society today, as the country strives to live up to its founding ideals while acknowledging and addressing its complex history.
The post above was mistakenly posted and it’s only used as an example please use the one posted below:
These publications and articles essentially highlight the inherent contradictions in the early history of the United States. Although the nation was founded on the values of equality and freedom, it faced difficulties like slavery, gender inequality, and the exclusion of underprivileged groups. These contradictions still exist in modern American culture as the nation works to retain its founding ideals while also acknowledging and addressing its complex historical history.
Sarah, This is a very thorough and provocative response on all our readings as they relate to our founding documents. I really liked your point about Jefferson’s relations with Sally Hemmings that highlight “the underlying hypocrisy of the time and demonstrates how a founding father who promoted equality and freedom could sustain slavery. It underscores America’s complex history, demanding reconciliation of these ideals with its legacy of inequality.” Well said.
Constitution and The Declaration of Independence
The Constitution was created to give people rights and the laws that they have to follow. The Declaration of Independence was written to show what kind of government America would be after getting freedom from the British. The Constitution talked about freedom and equal rights, but even after the Constitution lot of people didn’t have freedom. Some people had to be slaves to other people. Also, women didn’t have equal rights as men and they had to fight for their voting rights.
Phyllis Wheatley
Phyllis Wheatley was seized from her country Senegal, West Africa when she was 7 years old for slavery. She suffered so much in the ship travel. Someone in Boston bought her and took her to his house as a slave. Even though she was a slave her owner kids taught her how to read and write. After a few years, she started writing poems and published them. Even though slavery is wrong something good has happened to Phillis Wheatley because of it.
Abigail Adams
Abigail is the wife of John Adams. Since John Adams was part of writing The Declaration of Independence his wife wants him to consider giving equal rights to women. She doesn’t want John Adams to give all the rights to men and men will be the head of the household. Abigail would start a rebellion if women didn’t have equal rights. I agree with Abigail that women should have equal rights.
Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson was the third president of America and was the principal author of the Declaration of Independence. He was in controversy for having a relationship with the enslaved women. Her name was Sally Hemings. After his wife died, he took care of Sally Heming’s children. After a decade he freed all of Sally Heming’s children. I like how he was able to free the slaves and give them freedom.
Excellent observations and commentary, Sajeevan.
Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings
Philis Wheatly
Abigail Adams
Very good insights , Angelo, on all of these readings.
Reflecting on the founding documents of the United States, the Declaration of Independence, and the Constitution, it’s clear that they laid the groundwork for a unique and evolving experiment in governance. These documents enshrine principles of liberty, equality, and justice. However, their application and impact on various aspects of American society and government have been complex.
For women’s rights, it is evident that our founding documents did not address women’s rights explicitly. Abigail Adams and Phyllis Wheatley, among others, advocated for women’s rights during this era. Progress has been made since then, but gender equality remains an ongoing struggle, with challenges in areas such as the gender pay gap and underrepresentation in leadership positions.
The Declaration of Independence proclaimed “all men are created equal,” but it did not extend those principles to women. This omission reflects the prevailing societal norms of the 18th century, where women were often denied fundamental rights, including the right to vote. This inequity persisted for many years, and it wasn’t until the 19th Amendment in 1920 that women gained the right to vote.
The U.S. Constitution and the Three-Fifths Clause compromise were a glaring example of how marginalized groups were treated. This clause counted enslaved individuals as three-fifths of a person for representation purposes, bolstering the political power of slaveholding states without granting any rights or recognition to the enslaved. It’s a stark reminder of how deeply ingrained systemic injustices were in the nation’s founding documents.
Today, gender inequality still exists in various forms. The gender pay gap persists, with women often earning less than men for the same work. Women are underrepresented in leadership roles in both the public and private sectors. The struggle for reproductive rights and healthcare access continues to be a contentious issue, highlighting ongoing debates about women’s autonomy and control over their bodies.
In my opinion, the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, while revolutionary in many ways, reflected the gender biases of their time and did not grant full rights to women. The legacy of these omissions continues to shape the fight for gender equality in the present day. Recognizing these historical limitations is essential in the ongoing struggle to achieve full equality for women in all aspects of society
Excellent reflections Brandon. I especially appreciate your concluding thoughts.
In today’s world, the viewpoints expressed in the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, Phillis Wheatley’s poem, and Abigail Adams’s letter remain relevant. The enduring message of equality and the condemnation of racial prejudice, as conveyed by Wheatley, remind us of the ongoing struggle against discrimination and racism. Her poem briefly tells us how she learned about God in America and she then understood that under the “Savior” people of color, like anyone else, could be redeemed and virtuous. Coincidently, the Declaration of Independence also makes reference to God or the “Creator” who provides individuals with “unalienable rights” such as “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness”. The rights described in this document suggest that such rights are not just human inventions but come from a higher moral order. It makes us reflect on the religious and philosophical thinking of the time, that most people believed that principles like liberty and justice were in harmony with divine principles. Even though anyone could believe in a higher power it was clear that people of color were not treated with the same principles that America strongly felt were the foundation of the country.
The Constitution builds upon the principles and governance outlined In the Declaration of Independence. It is a framework for the United States democratic system. This document states that the rights of people such as voting rights, should be acknowledged and protected by limiting the power of the government. While the Constitution seemed groundbreaking at the time, a contradiction lies in the fact that these “equal rights” did not grant voting rights to women or other marginalized groups. Abigail Adam’s letter highlights the need for amendments and revisions in order to expand rights and inclusivity for women. Today we can still notice how women are not treated as equals in the work field where there is a noticeable pay gap between men and women. This makes us think about the current discussions on constitutional amends to address issues such as voting rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and immigrant rights. Furthermore, this makes us realize that we need a Constitution that adapts to changing norms and values, recognizing the personal and political ongoing pursuit of a “more perfect union” where all individuals, regardless of gender or race, can enjoy equal rights and opportunities in a truly democratic society.
Jessica, I really like how you point to the shortcomings of our founding documents and connect to continuing battles for gender equality. I also like how you go further, adding: This makes us think about the current discussions on constitutional amends to address issues such as voting rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and immigrant rights. ” Well said.
The contradictions embedded in the founding documents of the United States are both stark and enduring. While the Declaration of Independence proclaimed the principle that “all men are created equal,” it holds a glaring contradiction when examined in the context of the lives and actions of prominent figures like Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and Venture Smith.
Benjamin Franklin, a celebrated Founding Father, owned slaves despite his commitment to liberty, revealing a contradiction in his beliefs. Similarly, Thomas Jefferson, author of the Declaration of Independence, owned slaves, which reveals a gap between their professed beliefs and their actions.
Venture Smith, an African man enslaved in America but eventually purchased his freedom, is a poignant example of the contradiction within the declaration’s promise. While he fought for his own liberty and achieved it, the broader systemic inequality and the institution of slavery persisted, highlighting the disparity between the declaration’s ideals and the harsh realities of the time.
The same line, “all men are created equal,” from the Declaration of Independence, failed to acknowledge the rights of women, reflecting the prevailing gender biases of the time. The experiences of Abigail Adams and Phillis Peters emphasize the systemic gender inequality that permeated colonial and early America.
During the American Revolutionary era, women like Abigail Adams confronted significant inequality. In her heartfelt letter to John Adams, she emphasized the limitations placed on women in a society where they had no legal rights, couldn’t own property, and had limited educational opportunities. Her plea for gender equality underscored the stark disparities of the time.
Phillis Wheatley Peters, as a Black woman in colonial America, endured not only gender-based constraints but also the additional burden of slavery. Her remarkable literary talents allowed her to break barriers, but her story exemplifies the double discrimination faced by women of color.
While significant progress has been made in advancing women’s rights since the time of Abigail Adams and Phillis Wheatley Peters, there are still areas where gender inequality persists. The struggle for equal pay, representation in leadership roles, and protection from discrimination continues. The #MeToo movement shed light on pervasive issues of harassment and abuse, highlighting the need for systemic change. So, while strides have been made, there is still much work to be done to ensure true equality.
I like your running commentary here Mariam and your connection to modern movements such as the #MeTooMovement.
In examining the foundational documents of our nation, the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, alongside the stories of Abigail Adams, Phyllis Wheatley, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and Venture Smith, a complex tapestry of contradictions and challenges emerges. These documents, while representing admirable ideals, are also marked by their limitations and historical context.
The Declaration of Independence’s resounding assertion that “all men are created equal” stands as a timeless testament to the ideals upon which America was founded. However, this statement is starkly at odds with the reality of the time, as many of its signatories, including Thomas Jefferson, were slaveholders. The exclusion of women, enslaved individuals, and Indigenous people from these inalienable rights raises questions about the scope of equality envisioned by the founders. Regrettably, these inequalities persisted throughout history, and, in some aspects, persist to this day.
Abigail Adams’ advocacy for women’s rights provides a stark contrast to the prevailing norms of her time. Her impassioned plea for her husband, John Adams, to “remember the ladies” reflects early activism for gender equality, an area where the founding documents fell painfully short. The struggle for women’s full recognition and participation in society is an ongoing battle, with gender disparities evident in wages and representation.
Phyllis Wheatley’s story offers a glimpse into the enduring power of human creativity and resilience. Despite being enslaved, she found her voice through poetry, challenging societal expectations. Her poem “On Being Brought from Africa to America” reflects the complexities of her journey, underscoring the importance of free expression even in the face of adversity. Nevertheless, racial disparities persist, manifesting in disparities within the criminal justice system, education, and economic opportunities.
The U.S. Constitution, while a remarkable achievement in its time, bears the stain of the 3/5 Clause, which counted enslaved individuals as fractions of a person for representation. The contradiction between this clause and the lofty ideals articulated by Jefferson underscores the reality that not all individuals were considered equal in the eyes of the law.
Today, America grapples with various challenges, including political polarization and concerns about the functioning of its government. The possibility of a president with legal troubles running the country raises questions about the effectiveness of checks and balances, a system that the framers of the Constitution designed to safeguard the nation.
In conclusion, the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution are vital documents that have shaped the nation’s history. Their contradictions and challenges serve as a reminder that the journey towards equality and justice is ongoing. As we reflect on the legacy of these documents, we must remain committed to addressing the disparities and imperfections they embody, striving for a more inclusive and just society that lives up to the ideals they proclaim. America’s work toward achieving gender equality, promoting racial justice, and safeguarding democratic principles must remain continuous and unwavering.
America’s founding documents, the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, laid the groundwork for a nation that is built on principles of liberty, equality, and justice. However, their implementation has been marked by both successes and challenges. There was a unanimous declaration that “Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.” (Jefferson, 1776).
Abigail Adams and Phyllis Wheatley show the fight for women’s rights and equality. Their advocacy for gender equality laid a strong foundation for the women’s rights movement, which has made significant efforts but continues to face several challenges. Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson played a great role in drafting these documents, yet their legacies are controversial. Franklin’s advocacy and diplomacy shaped early America. Jefferson’s vision on the other hand, clashed with his personal contradictions for example his ownership of slaves. This inconsistency in absolutely upholding human rights continues to haunt America up-to-date.
Venture Smith’s narrative of enslavement and self-purchase also illustrates the struggle for freedom and human rights. Until today, issues like racial inequality and violation of human rights still persist. In contemporary America many challenges persist in fields such as voter suppression and polarization within the government. The positive legacies of the Declaration and Constitution, for example the protection of individual freedoms and the framework for democracy, remain quite essential. However, there’s still a room for improvement, particularly in ensuring equal rights for all citizens and addressing systemic injustices.
Finally, The Ukrainian fight for freedom aligns with America’s historical struggle for independence by emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic values globally. As we reflect on its founding fathers, it must continue to evolve to serve its citizens better and uphold the principles that it was built upon.
Rossena, Excellent running commentary on the contradictions of our founding documents. I really like your comments comparing the Ukraine fight to our own in 1776.
The declaration of independence is to assert the inherent and inalienable rights of all “men” that including “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” This document laid the foundation for the US’s establishment as an independent nation. It was all creative based on the “white maleness and masculinity” that rooted for capitalism. However, under the winning war background and enslaved law, the dominated “ability” in fighting brought “white men” had the high power to control everything, even other individuals’ “life, liberty, or the pursuit of happiness.” Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and some others powerful men played a significant role in drafting the Declaration of Independence, but they were all on the same ground in slavery that presented their same people on their best interest to cut the section against slavery. From one King to many Kings (white men), showing as monarchy to Democracy. Venture Smith’s story shows him had strong and powerful determination and endless efforts that made himself a “free successful businessman” after suffering so much torment over long decades under the slavery. Black males were not even counted as “human.” It’s heartbreaking. Blackman wanted what Whiteman had, but Whiteman didn’t want anything black man have. What if he was a white man, history might change in an unexpected way.
Phyllis Wheatley, the first published African American female poet, wrote her experiences as an enslaved female. As an “intersectional” identity (black and female), she introduced her journey and expresses gratitude for being taught about Christianity, through the context of slavery that wrote in her famous poem “On Being Brought from Africa to America.” Did she have a choice to choose what she wanted to believe? It was the hardest identity in the American history. Basically, they suffered the most because they didn’t have the right to or physical power to fight.
Abigail Adams as a former first lady urged him to consider the rights of women while drafting the Declaration of Independence in her letter to hr husband John Adams. She highlighted the importance of women’s involvement in “decision-making” and the need for their rights to be acknowledged. This was the first and huge step for women (white women) to raised awareness that for woman was also human and should have the “equal right” because women also made contributions to the successful war that should have been “remember.” The relationship in between should be partnership instead of a confrontation when building up the “law.” However, took how long for Americans to “aware” and “take action” of the toxic masculinity? Are we taking a step back now as a democracy nation as the famous abortion law has been overturned at the Supreme court? But most of these judges can’t even know what is the feeling of bearing a baby. They don’t represent pregnant women in my own opinion.
Democracy is hard to achieve in a world view because is base on “the most benefits” out of everything. Think about just what is happening in Hamas and Israel, also Russia and Ukraine. Your democracy is base on knocking down my home, taking my land without the complicated “power disparity” fighting. This fight is never end. Democracy is also hard to achieve in US for female and minorities due to the disparity numbers of Supreme court, house and congress representatives. “The rich only hep the rich,” but there are always exceptions, just not enough.
This is a powerful post Rujin that raises provocative questions. Thanks for it.
Your concern that we “are taking a step back now as a democracy nation” in so many ways is very real and deeply troubling indeed.
The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution are the founding documents of the United States, which is laid the groundwork for the nation’s principles and governance. However, they contain contradictions that conflicts the country this day. One obvious contradiction is the issue of women’s rights. While the Declaration of Independence addresses the issue of equality, referencing that “ all men are created equal”, but it failed to address the right and equality of women. This issue persist through American history, causing women to be seen as an inferior counterpart to men. It wasn’t until nearly a century later that women suffrage movement begin to challenge this issue of inequality and it ultimately lead to the 19th Amendment in 1920. This issue till date has cause many gender disparities for women in the workplace and generally.
As much as the constitution establish equality it also harbored contradictions that counted enslaved individuals as three-fifths of a person for the purpose of limiting and determining representation in congress. This acts dehumanized black people and it also cause racial disparities in United States. The dysfunction with the three arms of government can be described as contemporary politics and it deviates from the original purpose for the branches of government. This is the system of check and balances (complete fairness), but in recent times political polarization and partisanship have hindered effective governance. A good example of this is, removal of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and the possibility of a convicted criminal running the country from jail shows the challenges in maintaining the integrity of the executive and legislative branches. In all the founding documents of the United States contains both positive and negative principles that has contributed immensely to the trajectory of the country.
I really enjoyed reading this provocative post Glory. Certainly, the Constitution and its brilliant “checks and balances” never meant for the chaos in the House right now, just in selecting a speaker . The founders are turning over in their graves, for sure!
The Declaration of Independence
While the Declaration emphasizes women’s rights to life, liberty, and happiness, it was written at a time when many civic and political rights were restricted. While the document’s language is gender neutral, the societal context at the time did not extend these rights to women.
Abigail Adams
Abigail Adams, a strong advocate for women’s rights and education, faced the contradiction of advocating for equality while living in a society that limited women’s rights. Although progress has been made, women are still underrepresented in political office despite the tension between the ideals of the Revolution and the traditional roles assigned to women. The lack of representation can affect the prioritization of issues affecting women and limit the diversity of perspectives in decision-making.
Phyllis Wheatley
In stark contrast to her harsh reality of slavery, Phyllis Wheatley has achieved incredible success as a poet. As a stark reminder of the systemic injustice of the time, her literary success underscored the contradiction between the American ideal of freedom and equality and slavery.
Benjamin Franklin
As a key figure in the American Enlightenment, Benjamin Franklin promoted individual freedoms and scientific advancement. While he owned slaves, he did not take a prominent public stance against slavery, reflecting the hypocrisy of Enlightenment thinkers regarding race and equality.
Thomas Jefferson
In his Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson spoke eloquently about the equality and unalienable rights of all individuals. His own enslavement, however, revealed a profound contradiction between his philosophical ideals and his personal actions, illustrating the tension between principles and practices of the early American republic.
Venture Smith
Despite being enslaved and later purchasing his freedom, Venture Smith’s narrative highlights the contradiction of being enslaved. Even though he achieved his personal freedom, his story reveals the pervasiveness of slavery in early America, which illustrates the paradox of founding a nation on the notion of liberty while condoning enslavement.
The possibility of a President running the country from prison is exceptionally flighty and not in accordance with the designers’ goals. The Constitution frames explicit qualification models for the administration, and a conviction that prompts detainment could raise established and legitimate questions.The designers intended to make an administration that would adjust to the changing necessities of society while safeguarding the standards of a vote based system and law and order. The translation and use of sacred standards advance over the long haul, and the working of government branches is affected by the political elements of every period.
Nia,
I really like your concluding points here and your deep concern of “the possibility of a President running the country from prison ” This was definitely not “in accordance with the designers’ goals” as you rightly attest!
Phillis Wheatley
Phillis Wheatley was most known for her notable poems in the pre 19th century. She was a slave and used her writings as a way to showcase the struggles of what black women had to endure during slavery. To add on, Wheatley’s astounding writing contains many of allusions and talent.
Abigail Adams
Abigail Adams uses her privilege and also her voice to write an important letter to her husband about woman’s rights. She urges her husband to give thought to the rights of women. In her letter Abigail highlights that “if particular attention is not paid to the ladies, are determined to start a rebellion, and will not obey any laws in which we have no voice, or representation.” This is a contradiction because majority of people had no voice or get a say for their rights.
Very good points Akeria about these two outstanding women in history.
When we look at America’s founding documents, like the Declaration of Independence, there’s a big difference between what they say and what actually happened. The Declaration says everyone is equal, but Black people in America have faced a lot of challenges. For example, Phyllis Wheatley, who was a talented Black poet and once a slave, lived during a time when Black people were counted as only 3/5 of a person in the Constitution. This shows that from the start, America’s laws didn’t treat Black people fairly.
There’s a documentary on Netflix called “13th” that talks about how even after slavery ended, Black people were still treated unfairly. Laws and rules were made that targeted Black communities, making it easier for them to get into trouble. Today, these unfair rules still affect Black people, like getting judged just because of our skin color or being treated unfairly by the police. For someone like me, a young Black woman, it feels like things are set up against us because of old rules that never went away.
When it comes to the treatment of women its not any better. Back in the day, Abigail Adams told her husband to remember women when setting the rules for America. However, women, especially Black women, were often overlooked and ignored. The laws may have changed, but many old ideas haven’t.
Even now, with laws that say men and women should be treated equally, there’s a difference in how women are treated in everyday life. Some people still have outdated ideas, thinking women can’t do certain jobs or should act a certain way. This doesn’t match up with our country’s belief that everyone should be treated the same. America’s old papers might say some great things, but the real-life experiences of Black people and women show a different story.
Carolyn,
Thanks so much for bringing up the documentary “13th”. The legacy of racism still saturates this country, as you astutely point out.
One of America’s most essential figures in the foundations of the Declaration of Independence was severely hypocritical. Thomas Jefferson fought for equality and freedom but had a relationship with one of his slaves, Sally Hemings. His historical significance one could say is built on lies and hypocrisy, yet he is held to utmost regard in his reputation. How can one talk about freedom and equality and yet still have slaves?
Abigail Adams was a revolutionary female rights activist who worked during a time when women were politically underrepresented. She thought that women should have a bigger say in many public issues including marriage. Her being the first lady she pleaded with her husband John Adams in a well-known letter to “remember the ladies.” Despite modern advancements in women’s rights, there are still gender inequalities, such as unequal wage differences and little representation in leadership positions. Incredibly unfair to women, that they continuously face these problems even with all the progress made from the founding documents.
The complexity surrounding the status of African Americans in the early United States is highlighted through Phillis Wheatley’s poems. She was subjected to terrible situations in life, and from dealing with the adversity of slavery. Phillis Wheatley was able to separate herself as a wonderful poet. Phillis Wheatley was the first African American to publish a book of poems. The exceptional poetry writing skills of Wheatley demonstrate how people were still able to express their ideas and creativity during a time of adversity. The story of Wheatley serves as an important reminder that Americans are guaranteed their First Amendment rights to freedom of speech, but there still lies an underlying problem for such rights.
Although the importance of the United States Constitution cannot be denied, it does include several conflicts. A notable example is the 3/5 clause, which for the purposes of representation and taxation treated those who were enslaved as constituting three-fifths of a person. It promoted the concerns of the Southern states while also maintaining the devaluation of slaves. This section is a sobering reminder that the Constitution was drafted through compromise and reflects the tensions and competing interests among the many states.
In summary, a lot of the nation’s founding documents have many contradicting points. We’re supposed to be a nation built on the foundations of “equality and freedom” yet, as a society we still face those problems even after several centuries later. Even with so many essential figures in history fighting for our rights, we still remain very troubled.
Very insightful and provocative post Bai. Your point that the foundations of our political document are “severely hypocritical” is spot on.
Reflecting on the founding documents and the backgrounds of prominent figures like Abigail Adams, Phillis Wheatley, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and Venture Smith provides valuable insights into the strengths and shortcomings of the American government and how it serves its citizens. It also allows us to examine issues related to women’s rights, human rights, elections, the branches of government, and the legacies of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.
In summary, the United States has made significant progress since its founding, but it continues to grapple with a range of challenges related to equality, justice, and governance. The principles enshrined in the founding documents provide a foundation for addressing these challenges, but the nation’s history also highlights the need for ongoing vigilance, dialogue, and reform to ensure that the American system of government better serves all of its citizens.
Very good overview, Mumin, of the issues our nation still confronts.
Constitution and The Declaration of Independence:
The colonists fought the British because they desired independence from the British. They went up against the British because of unfair taxes. They battled because they lacked self-government. When the American colonies were created, they were a part of the United Kingdom. The United States Constitution has had an international impact on subsequent constitutions and legal thought. Its influence can be seen in similar phrasing and borrowed passages in other constitutions, as well as the principles of the rule of law, separation of powers, and recognition of individual rights however, my thoughts are that even after the Constitution, many people, including women and enslaved servants, did not have freedom.
Phyllis Wheatley:
Phillis Wheatley was emancipated from slavery following the death of her slavemaster’s wife, Susanna, in 1773. She had been enslaved by a tailor, John Wheatley, and his wife. They christened her Phillis after the name of the ship that brought her to Boston. She received an education in the Wheatley household while also working for the family, which was not a usual employment practice for an enslaved person during this time period, and she was also taught to read and write.
Abigail Adams:
Abigail Adams, John Adams’ wife, was the first woman to serve as Second Lady of the United States and the second woman to serve as First Lady. She was also the mother of the sixth President, John Quincy Adams. Abigail Adams was not just an early campaigner for women’s rights, but also a confidante and advisor to her husband, John Adams, the second president of the United States. She condemned slavery and advocated for women’s education.
Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemmings:
Sally Hemings’ responsibilities included serving as a nursemaid to Thomas Jefferson’s daughters Martha and Maria, as well as a chambermaid and seamstress. She was, nevertheless, an enslaved mistress of America’s third president, Thomas Jefferson. She was his children’s mother, but Jefferson was not only legally permitted to free his slaves, but he actually released two slaves in the 1790s, Robert and James Hemings.
The Declaration of Independence is a foundational document drafted in 1776 of American history that declared the colonies independence from British rule. The Declaration of Independence focuses on a major idea that all men are created equal. Although it is written, it contained contradictions related to women’s s rights and the status of women in society. For one, it excluded the whole gender of women when it speaks of “all men treated equally”. Women had limited role during the 18th century which limited involvement in public affairs. In the famous letter of Abigail Adams to John Adams she reminds him to remember the ladies when working on the Declaration of Independence. She wanted women to be able to contribute to society. She also expressed that giving man all the power would make the tyrants.They still did not mention women and had limited power but it became a symbolic statement in the early history of women’s rights. Another example of the Declaration of independence being contradicting is the biography of Phillis Wheatley. She was not only a woman but she was also an enslaved woman. She was taught to read and write at a young age and eventually made a household name among literate colonists. It wasn’t easy for her though because colonists were unwilling to support literature by an African. In response to this, Wheatley turned to London for a publisher where she gained recognition in Europe as well. This adversity shows how everyone is not created equal. The Declaration of Independence still contradicts the line that all men are created equal when it comes to women’s rights in society today because there is still economic inequality. Men are usually getting paid more than women. Women’s rights and gender equality have come a long way but there are still disparities in various aspects. Hopefully it can continue to change over time to be able to agree with the Declaration of Independence.