Category: American history

First Half: They want us to address a friend or family member that argues for the importance of a certain person or story in history. I am choosing Jane Webb and providing some key information and readings here. Describe who she is and who she’s important.
Second half: One of the purposes of a US survey course is to help prepare students for American citizenship. If you had to assign one reading for the entire American public, which would you choose and why? I have chosen “Benjamin H. Irvin, “Tar, Feathers, and the Enemies of American Liberties, 1768-1776,” The New England Quarterly 76, no. 2 (2003): 197–238.” I will also provide a link to this text as well.
I have also provided notes specific to the course and this specific material and sources for this project.

Assignment Expectations: For the fifth and final assignment, you will write an Introduction, just as you would for a final research paper, on your instructor-approved topic. Your introduction will include background information, historical context, the thesis statement that you’ve been crafting over the last eight weeks, as well as three supporting points designed to defend this thesis statement. You should use the sources selected and used over the last eight weeks (including website, primary and secondary sources) to develop your thesis statement and draft your paper. NOTE: You are not writing an entire research paper, only the introduction.
Assignment Directions: As you begin to write your introduction, please make sure that your final draft includes the following as well as follows the structure provided below. The Introduction Paper will be carefully structured, composed, and proofread, with all required components included in the correct order.
Format: The Introductory Paper should be typed in a word document, with 1-inch margins, double-spaced, and include no less than 500 words, using 12-point Calibri/Arial/Times New Roman font. Your paper should include a cover sheet that contains the following information:
Your Name
Research Project Title/Topic
Your class and section number
Your Introductory Paper should follow the Structure below.
Background Information on your topic
As you begin to write your paper, take a few sentences to provide some background information.
Historical Context on your topic
After proving a few background sentences, explain the historical context of the event you are studying.
Thesis Statement
At this point, share your thesis statement.
Three Supporting Points
After sharing your thesis statement, provide three points (from your research) that defend your thesis statement.
Footnotes
Please make sure that your paper is based off of the research you conducted for this class AND cite your work using Chicago/Turabian Style. Please see below under Bibliography.
Bibliography
At the end of your Introductory Paper, please include a bibliography of all of your research. This will include the sources you used for your Website Evaluation, Primary Source Analysis and Scholarly Article Review. You can also include any additional sources you might have used for this research project.
Please use Chicago Humanities (also referred to as Turabian) Style to format your bibliography entries and footnotes. The Effective Writing Center created a short overview on using Chicago Humanities Style called “Brief Guide to Citing Sources in Chicago.” To find a copy of this guide, please: click on the Content tab -> Course Resources ->Writing Resources -> “Brief Guide to Citing Sources in Chicago.” From there, scroll through the document to see a list of sources formatted in this style. The examples labeled N=footnote/endnote format and those labeled B=bibliographic entry. Chicago/Turabian Style can take some getting used to, so please do not hesitate to reach out to your instructor for extra clarification or additional help.
Submitting Your Work: Students can submit their work under the Paper Introduction Assignment directions. Click on this assignment, scroll to the bottom of the page where you see “Add Attachments,” and then attach assignment here. Students can also submit this assignment through the Assignment tab. Students will also see the rubric attached to this assignment. Please make sure to review the rubric before submitting your final draft.
PS: The topic is West africa and The Role of Slavery
I attached all the other assigments.

During the Reconstruction period, Congress became consumed with partisanship and as such, ultimately failed in Southern Reconstruction. When you look at the process of today’s legislative acts, what, if anything, has changed? Compare and contrast the issues Congress has to deal with to pass legislation in today’s society versus those in the Reconstruction era.
If your last name begins with A- L discuss the issues during the Reconstruction period, and if your last name begins with M-Z discuss the modern-day issues faced by Congress. (My last name starts with an M) 

roaring 20s dbq
Sowce: Licutenant Henry, in Emest Heeinzway, A Farewselito Ars. 1979
was aways canbarrassed by the words sacred, glorious,” and sacrifice.”… . . We bad beard them, sometimes standing in the raia alesost out of carsbot, so that cely the ssouted words caros throogh, aod had read them, on prostmaloos what were slapoed up by billposters over ober proclamatioas, now for a loos tiese, and I and seco pothing sacred, and the thines that were slopious had no slory asd the sacrifices were like the ssockyard at Caseaso if bothing was ooos to ty useat except bury it libere were toasy words that you could bot stand to bear and finally oaly the names of places bad dignity. … Abstract words soch as “clory,”bocor, villages, the cumber of roads, the names of rivers.
Document I
Source: Makolm Cowley, Exile’s Return, autobiography published in 1934.
We were physically uprooted … placked froes our own soil. .. and dumped, scattered among strange people…. We were fed, lodged, cloched by strangers, commanded by strangers. … Then, as soddealy as it began for us, the war eoded.
Wbea we first beard of the Armistice we felt a sease of relief too deep to express. …. We had coens through, we were still alive, and nobody wold be killed tomorrow. The composite fatherland for which we had fought and in which some of us Believed–France, Italy, the Allies, our English bonelasd, democracy, the self-determination of small sations dad triumphed. We dasced in the streets … Bat slowly, as the days went by, the intoxication passed, and the tears of joy. it appeared that our composite fatberiand was dissolving into quarreling statessoco and oil and steel magnates
AP US. Histry Page 3 of 

Each student submits an essay that reflects on their contribution to the video project. You can use many of the materials researched for your podcast but you need to write this paper yourself.
The paper should have a central theme and includes an abstract of the project, the process of choosing a theme, the research involved, the production itself, evaluation of group working relationships and what you learned about the topic. 
How did all this effort contribute to an understanding of the topic in particular and history in general? How could a project such as this be improved for the next class?
Review the work of 2 other group projects and comment on how projects such as this can enhance viewers understanding of Chinese American and Chinese diaspora history. 
Resources:
1. learn about locke: 



2. description of the project:
“Locke Chinatown: The Intersectionality of Law, Assimilation, & the Rural Life of Chinese Americans” is an exploration of the last rural Chinatown in the United States. Born out of the labor of Chinese workers who transformed swampland into fertile farmland, Locke became a haven where Chinese residents built close-knit relationships amidst discrimination and adversity.
Despite facing harsh working conditions and societal exclusion, the community initially flourished, establishing vital institutions like schools doubling as town halls and gathering places for political organizations. However, the discriminatory policies such as the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 and the Alien Land Law of 1913, coupled with forced assimilation efforts, led to the decline of rural Chinese American communities like Locke. Despite its designation as a National Historic Landmark in 1990, Locke’s future remains uncertain, reflecting the broader narrative of assimilation that has shaped the Chinese American experience across the nation.
Through interviews and literary analysis, “Locke Chinatown” delves into the struggles of a community caught between preserving its cultural heritage and navigating the pressures of assimilation in America.
3. 2 examples from other groups:
1. https://www.canva.com/design/DAGDxCihRHU/GYc1awprUJMHmn2qZ6YuVA/view
2. https://drive.google.com/file/d/132tnEquBYMPGBZe2xkvI9YmnQLZFa9Bv/view
4. full interview transcript used for the project — see attached
5. video script for our video — see attached

Objective: The objective of this assignment is to develop a well-reasoned opinion on the effectiveness and desirability of two prominent socio-economic proposals: Universal Basic Income (UBI) and Bernie Sanders’ Federal Jobs Guarantee (FJG) policy. Through this assignment, students will engage critically with the underlying principles, practical implications, and ideological implications of these proposals, ultimately articulating and defending their own perspective on which approach holds greater promise for addressing contemporary challenges of economic inequality and social welfare.
Instructions:
1.  Background Exploration: Conduct research on Universal Basic Income (UBI) and Bernie Sanders’ Federal Jobs Guarantee (FJG) policy, exploring their historical origins, theoretical foundations, and real-world applications. Seek out different sources (academic literature, opinion pieces, etc. to develop a comprehensive understanding of the debates surrounding these proposals.
2.  Position Development:
Reflect critically on the principles and values that underpin UBI and FJG, considering their implications for economic justice, social equity, and individual autonomy.
Evaluate the practical implications of UBI and FJG in terms of their potential to alleviate poverty, stimulate economic growth, and foster social cohesion.
Consider the ideological dimensions of UBI and FJG, examining how they resonate with your own beliefs, priorities, and visions for a just and prosperous society.
3.  Opinion Essay Composition:
Write a 1000-word opinion essay in which you articulate and defend your stance on the relative merits of UBI and FJG.
Present a clear and coherent argument that outlines your position on which proposal offers a more effective and desirable solution to the challenges of economic inequality and social welfare.
Support your argument with evidence, examples, and logical reasoning, drawing upon insights from your research and personal reflections.
Acknowledge and address potential counterarguments or criticisms of your position, demonstrating intellectual honesty and a willingness to engage with alternative perspectives.
4.  Submission Guidelines:
Please use APA or MLA style for citation of sources
Submit your completed assignment online via Canvas.
Evaluation Criteria:
Clarity of Position: Does the essay clearly articulate a well-defined opinion on the relative merits of UBI and FJG, supported by coherent arguments and evidence?
Argumentative Rigor: To what extent does the essay provide logical reasoning, evidence-based analysis, and persuasive rhetoric to support its position on UBI and FJG?
Engagement with Opposing Views: Does the essay demonstrate a nuanced understanding of alternative perspectives on UBI and FJG, engaging critically with counterarguments and potential criticisms?
Personal Reflection: Does the essay offer thoughtful reflections on the ideological dimensions of UBI and FJG, considering how they align with the student’s own values, beliefs, and priorities?
Writing Quality: Is the essay well-written, with clear organization, concise expression, and adherence to academic conventions in style and citation?
This assignment offers you the opportunity to take a stand on two divergent socio-economic proposals—Universal Basic Income (UBI) and Bernie Sanders’ Federal Jobs Guarantee (FJG)—and to defend your position with reasoned argumentation and critical analysis. As you formulate your opinion, draw upon the knowledge and insights gained from your research, but also consider how your personal values, beliefs, and aspirations shape your perspective on these pressing issues. Your essay should not only demonstrate intellectual rigor and persuasive writing skills but also reflect your engagement with the complexities of socio-economic policy-making and your commitment to envisioning a more just and equitable future.

From November 1963 to January 1969, Lyndon B. Johnson served as president
during some of the nation’s most tumultuous years since the Civil War.
Assess his presidency. What were his accomplishments? What were his
failures? Overall, did Johnson have a positive impact on America or a negative
one, and what is the historical evidence that supports your view? Make sure to
bring in foreign and domestic issues and events to support your views.

Type a three page or more, double-spaced essay analyzing Desert Exile and comparing/contrasting it with the experiences presented in Part II of Stories of Japanese-American Incarceration. Make sure to bring in specifics from the film. If you make a vague, general reference, that will earn you few points.
In your introduction, introduce your subject matter and pose a thesis about your topic. You must state your thesis in your first paragraph.
In the body, develop your arguments proving the thesis. Organize each paragraph around a topic sentence (the first sentence in the paragraph. The sentences that follow flesh out the topic while supporting your claims with evidence. Paragraphs should be linked by transitions.
Essays must primarily focus on the primary source evidence in the book and the information from the assigned video.
The arguments should lead to a conclusion that sums the logic of the arguments in the body and verifies that you have defended the validity of your thesis.
Evaluation: Papers will be evaluated on the following criteria: your introduction and thesis, your usage and analysis of Desert Exile (very important), your inclusion of material from Stories of Japanese-American Incarceration. your conclusion; spelling and grammar; syntax, sentence structure and formatting (includes appropriate use of quotes and citations). A rubric will be posted to blackboard.
Formatting and Guidelines for the Primary Source Essay
1. I will enforce the following page margins/font/page number requirements STRICTLY.
Make sure your computer margins are all set at 1″. You MUST use Times New Roman
12 point font, and the paper MUST be page numbered. The page numbers must be consecutive and they must appear in the top right corner or the bottom center of your page. Include your name in the numbering system (i.e.: Jones 2, Jones 3, etc.). The first page does not require a page #.
Do not include extra spaces between paragraphs. Many word programs add extra space by default. In order to solve this problem on Word first select all of the text in your essay.
Under “Home” click on “Paragraph.” Make certain that you have Spacing, both before and after, set to 0 pt.
Do not “stuff” your first page with unnecessary information (your student ID number, meeting times of the class, my office number, etc.)
Reminder on Heading: Please note that my formatting instructions require you to single space your heading. You will also note that there is no extra spacing between each line.
In order to achieve this, follow these instructions if you are using Word:
Highlight your heading
Click on “HOME” at the top of the screen.
Near the center of the screen, you will see the word “Paragraph.” To the right of this word you will see an arrow pointing down and to the right. Click on this
arrow.
A box will pop up on the screen. Under spacing set “Before” and “After” to 0 pt. it you have not done so already, set “Line spacing” to “single.”
Please do not insert extra space between paragraphs. This is a page stretching technique and will cost you points.
Reminder on Margins: If you are using a Mac, be warned that your program may automatically set the left and right margins to 1.25 inches rather than 1 inch. If you forget to change this, you may end up with a paper that is shorter than the required 2.5 pages.
Similar problems sometimes occur with Google Docs as well. Allow yourself enough time to edit your essay if you discover it is shorter than you originally thought.
Use proper formal English. Do not use abbreviations or contractions. For example, do not use shouldn’t, isn’t, etc. Spell out all words. For example, do not use “vs.” as a substitute for “versus.”
Invent a title. Do not write “History Essay” or “Assignment,” for example. Part of the writing process involves creating a title that will make someone want to read the paper.
You can be clever, incorporate a theme from the book
Do not rely on the spell-check feature on your computer to catch all mistakes. Misused words/awkward grammar often escape the spell-check feature. Grammatical mistakes will cost you points. Read and re-read your paper several times to find mistakes. Proofread aloud (and ask someone to help you with the proof-reading if you need additional help). I do this when I am editing a conference paper or anything for publication.
Quotations: If you quote from Desert Exile just include parenthesis at the end of the sentence with the page number (47). You do not have to include the name of the author as I will understand you are quoting from the book. Verbatim quotes are a useful as long as you utilize them to make a point (and not because “you could not have said it better”).
However, it is best to limit your usage of quotes in critical review essays. If you do use them, include them in your own sentences and try to limit them to phrases from the book.
Do not use quotes from the book as standalone sentences (a sentence that is only a quote from the book).
Citations: In addition to citing when you quote, you must also cite when you summarize or paraphrase the text. You can just give the page number or numbers in a parenthetical citation at the end of the sentence, just as you would have done for a quote. You should also cite when you paraphrase the film. To simplify matters, if you are citing the film, just name the film in a parenthetical citation at the end of the sentence (Stories of Japanese-American Incarceration Part II. Please be sure to include the time stamp in your citation or you will lose points.

For this paper assignment, six essay questions are listed below. Select the one that you wish to answer. The essay should be a formal essay. You are expected to use your textbook (cite it whenever you use material from it) and any other supplemental materials you wish so long as they are NOT encyclopedias. The link for the free textbook is, https://openstax.org/details/books/us-history.  Any source you use needs to be cited per APA or MLA guidelines. The questions will test how much you know about the subject matter of each of the questions and how well you are able to do research quickly to fill out your knowledge base.
You must use either the MLA or APA guidelines for writing formal papers. Follow this  Link for access to the Purdue OWl to get information on both writing formats.
Note, the length of the essay should be from 4 to 5 pages. It can be longer if you feel that is necessary to properly address the question. Your grade is based on (1) content (2) analysis of the content or of the the argument you make if support of your position re each question, and (3) mechanics (i.e. spelling, punctuation, etc.). The essay is worth 100 points maximum.
Paper must be turned in to Canvas by May. 14th at the latest. Note, I cannot accept papers after the official close of the course. 
——————-
Paper Topics: Pick one from this list
Compare the Confederacy with the American colonies and their respect claims that were justified in separating from in the first case the British Empire and in the second case the United States. To what extent do you think southerners were correct in viewing the Civil War as a second American Revolution and to what extent were they wrong?
An ongoing theme in early American history was the issue of the rights of the federal government versus that of the states. Write a formal essay in which you trace this history including in your discussion such events as you think were most relevant regarding the tension between the southern states and the rest of the country?
The era of Jackson is said to have been a watershed moment in American history. Explain what Jacksonian Democracy was and how it differed from the way politics had worked in America prior to the time of Jackson? Was this a change for the better? 
The treatment of native peoples from the period of colonization through the Indian Removal Act under Jackson and Van Buren has been a dark stain on American history. Write an essay in which you discuss the ways in which Native Americans were been dealt with by the American government from Washington’s administration to the removal of the native tribes from the Southeast. Do you think the government could have found another way to deal with the Indian issue or was the confiscation of native land inevitable and if so why?
Discuss the various ways in which slavery was actually practiced in the South during the antebellum period and how slaves resisted such treatment. Were the various slave rebellions at all useful in the struggle against the institution or did they only make things worse?
Discuss the similarities and differences between the North and South regarding social norms and cultural practices prior to the Civil War. Can you find any similarities between our own time and life during this earlier period?
Write an essay in which you discuss the Civil War itself and try to explain why it took the North so long to prevail against the South. Could the war have been averted and if so how?
Discuss the effort on the part of the federal government to reconstruct the South in the years after the Civil War. Was this effort on the whole successful or did it fail and if so how?
There were numerous reform movements during the Antebellum period. Pick one that you think is particularly interesting and explain how it came about and whether or not the reforms advocated by the group you chose were successful in achieving their goals.

I already have my secondary souce which i will attach below.  The paper is based on an interview I conducted which I have the notes on. The insturctions are as follows:
As part of this project, you will put that person’s story in historical context by identifying and incorporating a secondary source that provides historical information about one aspect of your interviewee’s life story. The goal of this assignment is to make evident the importance of individual stories and experiences in American history, which we get little of when we stay at such high altitude for much of this class. So really, I just want you to enjoy getting to know this person and their past a bit better. That is your primary objective.
After you conduct your interview, you should reflect on what you learned and think about if there is one particular aspect of this person’s life on which you could do further research. So, for example, if you talk to your grandma a lot about what it was like for her to raise three small children mostly on her own while your grandpa worked for wages, you might look further into motherhood in the 1950s United States.