Artistry of the Declaration of Independence

"Some Americans were clearly omitted from this circle of united interest drawn by the Declaration of Independence: Indians, black slaves, women." - Howard Zinn, A People's History of the United States (Page 72)

 I recall that we talked a lot about the exclusion of certain groups from the Declaration of Independence.  We praise Thomas Jefferson so much for his work, it's easy to forget the reality behind the elegant words. The reasons could possibly be that the exlcusion was not on purpose.  Or, that Jefferson felt obligated to keep the institution of slavery in place.  However, Zinn argues that not only was Jefferson award of the exlcusion, but because he referred heavily to John Locke's Second Treatise of government he must have know that this was wrong. 

Having thoroughly studied John Locke's Second treatise of government, I think that the parallels between the two are too strong to disregard the influence.  I thought about our class discussion and opinions of my classmates for awhile, and I've decided that the gilded words hide an ugly truth.  The United States of America was founded on exclusion.  It is only through an evolution of ourselves that this has changed. 

Community and Rebellion

Because the early American cities had a stronger sense of community, it was much easier for them to unite against the British.  For example, most people lived near the waters edge and were heavily affected by the tax on tea.  This sentiment was echoed throughout the community, from the elite to middle class dock workers.  This simply did not happen in societies back in Britain and the Tea Party rebellion was a direct result of the unique community structure of the early American colonies. 

Impartial Observer of the Tea Party

"I cannot but express my admiration of the conduct of this People. Uninfluenced by party or any other attachment, I presume I shall not be suspected of misrepresentation. The East India Company must console themselves with this reflection, that if they have suffered, the prejudice they sustaine does not arise from enmity to them."

- Boston Tea Party Historical Society, "Account by an Impartial Observer"

I found it interesting how even an "impartial observer" took an immediate admiration to those protesting the tea tax by throwing tea off of a ship in Boston Harbor.  Of course, the story has always been conveyed to me that it is something to be admired but if I were an observer of the event I'm not sure that I would have the same attitude.  I'd more likely be confused than anything else, or wonder why political tensions had come to that point.

Tea Obsession

I thorougly enjoyed learning aroubt eurpoes, and particulary Britain's obsession with tea.  To me, it was curious as to why the same setniments did not translate exactly to America.  For example, the British made elaborate places to take tea outside, while Americans would only take tea in the privacy of their own homes. 


Also, what was interesting to me was tea's transformation from a luxury item to something that every one had.  As stated in our group discussion, it was hospitality that anyone could offer and it meant the same thing, regardless of class or social standing. 

The Tea Party & Dense Facts

My favorite dense fact from what we discussed with our guest speaker, was the changing image of tea.  Back during the revolutionary period of American history, tea was a luxury item handled with expensive wares.  Now, tea does not carry the same connotation at all.  No one makes time to take tea in the middle of the day anymore. 

While the current political Tea Party alludes back to the "original principles" of the tea party, to the protest of dumping tea in Boston harbor they specialize in paranoia rather than freedom.  The Tea Party does not like the progessive message that Barack Obama and the Democrats in charge have.  For me, they appear to have a destructive agenda rather than a constructive plan to reform the political scene. 

Analysis of my Tea Party Collection Post

Back in September, I made a tea party collection post.  For memories sake and for braninstorming purposes, I'm going to revist the ideas presented in the newspaper article, "Frustration and Fear Greet Obama in Town Hall Chat".

The article illustrated how willing Americans were to flock to the Tea Party, when not many even know the party platform or the ideals they represent.  This was reflected even more so in this past Midterm election, when the political figures people were turning to were actually placed into office.  Looking at the Tea Party, they want two conflicting things, to cut spending and not think about the repercussions on governments programs such as medicare and social security.  It is difficult to get to the true meaning of the Tea Part and get through all the excitement, rhetoric, and scare tactics.  I will explore this point further in my Tea Party editorial. 

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/21/us/politics/21obama.html?_r=1&ref=todayspaper

Benjamin Franklin and His Virtues

My favorite part about the first half of Benjamin Franklin's autobioraphy was the part where he decides to try to make himself into a perfect human being be ascribing virtues and a tracker for himself.  He listed 13 virtues, "temperance, silence, order, resolution, frugality, industy, sincerity, justice, moderation, cleanliness, tranquility, chastity and humility".  While this sounds like a great idea, in practice he finds this policy hard to adhere to.

While Benjamin Franklin is a historical idol and a founding father of America, his autobiography reveals the inconsistencies and shortcomings of a human being.  While Benjamin Franklin's autobiography was a tough read because of all of the tangents he goes off on, it provided great insight into his character.