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Showing posts from December, 2018

LAD/Blog #26: William Jennings Bryan's "Cross of Gold" speech

This speech, given at the DNC in Chicago, beginning by stating that he defends a cause as holy as liberty. He goes on to state that he supports government action and general authoritarianism to an extend through fiscal and other areas of american life such as taxation of citizens and goods. Moreover, he states that he opposes the gold standard as it keeps power in the hands of the rich. the BUS has been contested and questioned many times before.

LAD/Blog #25: The Dawes Act

The Dawes act was an act that had a major effect on native Americans in America. This law aimed to assimilate natives into farmers. The land was distributed among each family and was given in different amounts based on social standing. Additionally, leftover land was sold to american settlers. If natives accepted this land and assimilated an acceptable amount, they were eligible for citizenship.

LAD/Blog #24: Populist (People's) Party Platform

The populist party was founded in St. Louis and was created by farmers to protect the common man from big banks and business. The founders believed that america was near collapse and were very critical of rich capitalists who have caused much of this damage. They continue in saying that they intend to reverse the wrongdoings of greedy capitalists if supported by the people. Their platform includes money to those who own it, civil service, and government regulated finances. In the expression of sentiments they request 8 hour work weeks, fair elections, and a one term limit to the presidency. Trump reflected many populist beliefs in his campaign

LAD/Blog #23: McKinley's War Message

McKinley begins by stressing that the end of conflict between the US, Cuba, and Spain is essential. McKinley describes the obstacles that the US has faced from this conflict and admits that a free Cuba is the best for America. He also adds that the current humanitarian issues within cuba will be solved through cuban freedom and an end to conflict. he ends by stating that the negative military and economic issues will end if he is authorized. Cuban Missile Crisis

LAD/Blog #22: Carnegie's Gospel of Wealth

Social Darwinism is the belief/belief system that society is and should be run by those who are the "fittest," or the most suited to rule based on traits such particular to race. Carnegie presents similar but more lenient in his work "the gospel of wealth". While these ideas are still moderately racist, it ought to be noted that Carnegie was a Scottish immigrant, probably accounting for his more lenient ideas. Carnegie notes how the treatment of african americans is still poor, however his excuse is less about pure superiority and instead socioeconomic implications. He continues to state that society has come to a breaking point where there are massive discrepancies between rich and poor. Carnegie advocates for laissez-faire policies, possibly being an early belief of trickle-down economics. Carnegie Adam Smith's wealth of nations also advocated for laissez-faire policy citing the "invisible hand"