Module Five: How the West Was Run
The good ol' days of politics were a captivating saga of power jostles, wonky beliefs, and the eternal hunt for dominance. Gazing into a carnival mirror, reflecting on today's political circus, swapping togas for suits, and ditching the Twitter rants is like gazing into a carnival mirror. Let's take a leisurely stroll down memory lane, shall we? But don't worry—we won't get lost in the labyrinth of political jargon; we'll keep it light and entertaining.
Think of Ancient Greece, where democracy took its first stumbling steps, like a teenager navigating adulthood. For instance, Cleisthenes, the original democracy promoter, introduced the system of ostracism, a unique feature of Athenian democracy. This was a process where citizens could vote to banish a public figure for ten years, ensuring that no one individual could amass too much power. This was like doling out political perks like candy on Halloween. "You get a vote! And you get a vote! Sorry, ladies and enslaved people, you're on the not-invited list." Ah, the golden age of Athenian democracy, where political debate happened in the town square rather than online forums. It was like a democratic potluck, but only the guys got to bring the snacks.
Then there's the Roman Republic, the originator of checks and balances before it turned into a museum piece in American politics. With its Senate, Assembly, and Consuls, it was a political circus with multiple rings and roles for everyone. But like any good circus, there were elephants in the room—corruption, infighting, and the looming threat of dictatorship. This threat eventually materialized with the rise of Julius Caesar, marking the transition from the Republic to the Empire. As they say, all roads lead to Rome, especially the ones paved with good intentions and rerouted through tyranny.
And who could overlook the Byzantine Empire, the stubborn cousin that refused to leave their parents' basement after the Roman Empire collapsed? Ruled from Constantinople, it was like that oddball relative who wouldn't budge. It had a complex political structure, with an emperor, a senate, and a bureaucracy. Sure, it had grit and a talent for fending off invaders like a medieval game of whack-a-mole. But behind the Byzantine curtain were bureaucratic hiccups, religious showdowns, and the perpetual dread of being caught between a crusade and a hard place.
Why bother with this pre-1500 CE political soap opera? Well, it's like peeking at our society's embarrassing baby pictures. Understanding where we came from not only helps us make sense of the chaotic mess we're in today, but also gives us a roadmap for the future. It's a crash course in power plays, diversity, and the art of political train wrecks, all of which are still very much in play today. So, let's dive into this historical treasure trove and come out armed with knowledge and a few good laughs.
So, as we trudge through the swamp of modern politics, let's remember our ancient ancestors stumbling through their reality TV show. Whether it's ancient Greece, Rome, or Byzantium, political theater has always been primed for tragicomedy in epic proportions. And who doesn't enjoy a good historical sitcom with a sprinkle of dark humor and a hefty existential dread?
THE RUNDOWN
QUESTIONS
Think of Ancient Greece, where democracy took its first stumbling steps, like a teenager navigating adulthood. For instance, Cleisthenes, the original democracy promoter, introduced the system of ostracism, a unique feature of Athenian democracy. This was a process where citizens could vote to banish a public figure for ten years, ensuring that no one individual could amass too much power. This was like doling out political perks like candy on Halloween. "You get a vote! And you get a vote! Sorry, ladies and enslaved people, you're on the not-invited list." Ah, the golden age of Athenian democracy, where political debate happened in the town square rather than online forums. It was like a democratic potluck, but only the guys got to bring the snacks.
Then there's the Roman Republic, the originator of checks and balances before it turned into a museum piece in American politics. With its Senate, Assembly, and Consuls, it was a political circus with multiple rings and roles for everyone. But like any good circus, there were elephants in the room—corruption, infighting, and the looming threat of dictatorship. This threat eventually materialized with the rise of Julius Caesar, marking the transition from the Republic to the Empire. As they say, all roads lead to Rome, especially the ones paved with good intentions and rerouted through tyranny.
And who could overlook the Byzantine Empire, the stubborn cousin that refused to leave their parents' basement after the Roman Empire collapsed? Ruled from Constantinople, it was like that oddball relative who wouldn't budge. It had a complex political structure, with an emperor, a senate, and a bureaucracy. Sure, it had grit and a talent for fending off invaders like a medieval game of whack-a-mole. But behind the Byzantine curtain were bureaucratic hiccups, religious showdowns, and the perpetual dread of being caught between a crusade and a hard place.
Why bother with this pre-1500 CE political soap opera? Well, it's like peeking at our society's embarrassing baby pictures. Understanding where we came from not only helps us make sense of the chaotic mess we're in today, but also gives us a roadmap for the future. It's a crash course in power plays, diversity, and the art of political train wrecks, all of which are still very much in play today. So, let's dive into this historical treasure trove and come out armed with knowledge and a few good laughs.
So, as we trudge through the swamp of modern politics, let's remember our ancient ancestors stumbling through their reality TV show. Whether it's ancient Greece, Rome, or Byzantium, political theater has always been primed for tragicomedy in epic proportions. And who doesn't enjoy a good historical sitcom with a sprinkle of dark humor and a hefty existential dread?
THE RUNDOWN
- Ancient Greece introduced democracy around 508 BCE, letting citizens participate in decisions, but excluding women, slaves, and non-citizens.
- The Roman Republic from around 509 BCE balanced power among different branches of government, leading to stability but also facing corruption and internal conflicts.
- The Byzantine Empire, continuing Roman traditions from 330 CE, endured for centuries but dealt with challenges like bureaucracy and religious disputes.
- Studying politics before 1500 CE helps us understand the origins of democracy and government systems today.
- It shows us how different civilizations interacted and adapted, shaping political institutions.
- Learning about this period encourages critical thinking about modern political issues and debates.
QUESTIONS
- How did Ancient Greece contribute to the development of democracy? Who was included and excluded from participation in this early form of democracy?
- Compare and contrast the political systems of Ancient Greece and the Roman Republic. What were the similarities and differences in how power was distributed and exercised?
- Discuss the challenges faced by the Byzantine Empire in maintaining its political structure. How did factors like bureaucracy and religious disputes impact its governance?
#5 History in Not Monolithic
History is woven with threads so intricate they resemble a labyrinth of spaghetti. Some perceive it as a tidy journey from Point A to Point B as if we're all dutifully following a predetermined blueprint for societal perfection. But let me assure you: that blueprint is more convoluted than a Hitchcock thriller.
Consider colonization, for instance. Europeans are traversing the seas, claiming land as if it were a frenzied Black Friday sale. They may have viewed it as manifest destiny or some other lofty concept but for the indigenous inhabitants? It felt more like an unwelcome visitor arriving unannounced, bringing along a retinue, devouring all provisions, and demanding gratitude for the meager crumbs left behind.
And the Civil Rights Movement? Sure, we've been presented with the sanitized rendition in textbooks, with MLK Jr. delivering his iconic speech and harmonious scenes of unity. But behind the curtain? It was a battlefield, with individuals risking life and limb merely to occupy the same diner stools as their white peers. Yet, here's the revelation: history transcends the prominent figures and pivotal moments. It encompasses the untold narratives—the whispers in the shadows, the scribbles in the margins. Consider the women who fiercely fought for suffrage or the enslaved souls who dared to envision liberty within a world constructed upon their toil.
History isn't a uniform garment; it's messy, intricate, and sometimes repulsively raw. Yet therein lies its allure. It serves as a mirror reflecting our entirety, flaws included.
So, let's discard the antiquated recipe books and embrace the disorder. Let's amplify the voices stifled for far too long and infuse vigor into this insipid narrative we've been force-fed. Only by acknowledging the breadth of human experience can we aspire to grasp our trajectory—where we've journeyed from and where the winding road ahead may lead us.
RUNDOWN
STATE OF THE WORLD
History is woven with threads so intricate they resemble a labyrinth of spaghetti. Some perceive it as a tidy journey from Point A to Point B as if we're all dutifully following a predetermined blueprint for societal perfection. But let me assure you: that blueprint is more convoluted than a Hitchcock thriller.
Consider colonization, for instance. Europeans are traversing the seas, claiming land as if it were a frenzied Black Friday sale. They may have viewed it as manifest destiny or some other lofty concept but for the indigenous inhabitants? It felt more like an unwelcome visitor arriving unannounced, bringing along a retinue, devouring all provisions, and demanding gratitude for the meager crumbs left behind.
And the Civil Rights Movement? Sure, we've been presented with the sanitized rendition in textbooks, with MLK Jr. delivering his iconic speech and harmonious scenes of unity. But behind the curtain? It was a battlefield, with individuals risking life and limb merely to occupy the same diner stools as their white peers. Yet, here's the revelation: history transcends the prominent figures and pivotal moments. It encompasses the untold narratives—the whispers in the shadows, the scribbles in the margins. Consider the women who fiercely fought for suffrage or the enslaved souls who dared to envision liberty within a world constructed upon their toil.
History isn't a uniform garment; it's messy, intricate, and sometimes repulsively raw. Yet therein lies its allure. It serves as a mirror reflecting our entirety, flaws included.
So, let's discard the antiquated recipe books and embrace the disorder. Let's amplify the voices stifled for far too long and infuse vigor into this insipid narrative we've been force-fed. Only by acknowledging the breadth of human experience can we aspire to grasp our trajectory—where we've journeyed from and where the winding road ahead may lead us.
RUNDOWN
- History is depicted as a complex tapestry with diverse perspectives, contrary to the oversimplified narrative often presented.
- The colonization of America is examined from European and Native American viewpoints, highlighting oppression and progress.
- The Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s is portrayed as a culmination of varied experiences, leading to legislative changes and challenging discrimination.
- Reevaluation of historical events like women's suffrage and the transatlantic slave trade enriches understanding by including marginalized perspectives.
- Neglecting violence and resistance during historical movements obscures the challenges faced and the complete picture of history.
- The conclusion emphasizes that history is dynamic, necessitating the study of various angles to learn from mistakes and foster a just society, as illustrated by examples like colonization and the Civil Rights Movement.
STATE OF THE WORLD
1754 BCE, a time when bronze shone like Instagram filters and civilizations burgeoned faster than hipster cafes in Brooklyn. Each civilization left its mark, from Mesopotamia's hustle under Sargon of Akkad to Egypt's pyramid-building frenzy and the engineering marvels of the Indus Valley. China laid the groundwork for industrial dominance, while Mesoamericans carved colossal heads amidst budding civilizations in the Americas. But the most striking part is the transition from these ancient times to the 21st century, where we've swapped bronze for Bitcoin, mammoths for memes, and debate over pizza toppings persists. It's a whirlwind journey from ancient bartering to modern technological marvels, all with a side of avocado toast.
HIGHLIGHTS
We've got some fine classroom lectures coming your way, all courtesy of the RPTM podcast. These lectures will take you on a wild ride through history, exploring everything from ancient civilizations and epic battles to scientific breakthroughs and artistic revolutions. The podcast will guide you through each lecture with its no-nonsense, straight-talking style, using various sources to give you the lowdown on each topic. You won't find any fancy-pants jargon or convoluted theories here, just plain and straightforward explanations anyone can understand. So sit back and prepare to soak up some knowledge.
LECTURES
LECTURES
- UNDER CONSTRUCTION!
The Reading section—a realm where our aspirations of enlightenment often clash with the harsh realities of procrastination and the desperate reliance on Google. We soldier on through dense texts, promised 'broadening perspectives' but often wrestling with existential dread and academic pressure. With a healthy dose of sarcasm and a strong cup of coffee, I'll be your guide on this wild journey from dusty tomes to the murky depths of postmodernism. In the midst of all the pretentious prose, there's a glimmer of insight: we're all in this together, united in our struggle to survive without losing our sanity.
READING
This class utilizes the following textbook:
Sherman, Dennis, and Joyce Salisbury. The West in the World. 5th ed. McGraw Hill, 2013.
In the whirlwind of academia, where tweed jackets and discussions about the best coffee spot reign, Joyce Salisbury and Dennis Sherman stand out as the rebels of historical scholarship. Armed with Salisbury's Ph.D. in medieval history from Rutgers University and Sherman's academic journey from UC Berkeley to the University of Michigan, they challenge the conventional norms with their scholarly prowess and irreverent wit. Salisbury fearlessly delves into ancient violence with works like "The Blood of Martyrs" and uncovers forgotten tales of resilience in "The Encyclopedia of Women in the Ancient World." Meanwhile, Sherman, akin to an academic Indiana Jones, roams the globe contemplating French history in Parisian cafes and making history accessible with titles like "A Short History of Western Civilization." Together, they disrupt the ivory tower with their unapologetic approach and thirst for asking the tough questions.
As a dynamic duo, Salisbury and Sherman defy the stereotype of the stuffy historian. Their partnership merges Salisbury's pen, mightier than Excalibur itself, with Sherman's knack for weaving accessible narratives. They're not just scholars but cultural provocateurs challenging the status quo. So, here's to raising a glass (or a quill) to these academic renegades, who breathe life into the dusty corridors of historical scholarship with their relentless curiosity and scholarly swagger.
RUNDOWN
READING
- Chapter 5. Territorial and Christian Empires: The Roman Empire, 31 B.C.E. to 410 C.E.
This class utilizes the following textbook:
Sherman, Dennis, and Joyce Salisbury. The West in the World. 5th ed. McGraw Hill, 2013.
In the whirlwind of academia, where tweed jackets and discussions about the best coffee spot reign, Joyce Salisbury and Dennis Sherman stand out as the rebels of historical scholarship. Armed with Salisbury's Ph.D. in medieval history from Rutgers University and Sherman's academic journey from UC Berkeley to the University of Michigan, they challenge the conventional norms with their scholarly prowess and irreverent wit. Salisbury fearlessly delves into ancient violence with works like "The Blood of Martyrs" and uncovers forgotten tales of resilience in "The Encyclopedia of Women in the Ancient World." Meanwhile, Sherman, akin to an academic Indiana Jones, roams the globe contemplating French history in Parisian cafes and making history accessible with titles like "A Short History of Western Civilization." Together, they disrupt the ivory tower with their unapologetic approach and thirst for asking the tough questions.
As a dynamic duo, Salisbury and Sherman defy the stereotype of the stuffy historian. Their partnership merges Salisbury's pen, mightier than Excalibur itself, with Sherman's knack for weaving accessible narratives. They're not just scholars but cultural provocateurs challenging the status quo. So, here's to raising a glass (or a quill) to these academic renegades, who breathe life into the dusty corridors of historical scholarship with their relentless curiosity and scholarly swagger.
RUNDOWN
- Ancient Rome, once governed by leaders like Julius Caesar and Augustus, looked very different from the later empire under Theodosius.
- The Roman Empire shifted from being ruled by the Senate and Roman traditions to being a Christian empire led by an emperor in Constantinople.
- While the empire's borders were still protected by Roman legions, by the fourth century, these soldiers were often Germanic and used different tactics.
- Ultimately, internal forces caused the Roman Empire to split into Byzantium, the Muslim world, and Germanic kingdoms.
- Despite its fall, Rome's legacy continued to influence Western culture and occasionally inspired attempts to revive its greatness.
Howard Zinn was a historian, writer, and political activist known for his critical analysis of American history. He is particularly well-known for his counter-narrative to traditional American history accounts and highlights marginalized groups' experiences and perspectives. Zinn's work is often associated with social history and is known for his Marxist and socialist views. Larry Schweikart is also a historian, but his work and perspective are often considered more conservative. Schweikart's work is often associated with military history, and he is known for his support of free-market economics and limited government. Overall, Zinn and Schweikart have different perspectives on various historical issues and events and may interpret historical events and phenomena differently. Occasionally, we will also look at Thaddeus Russell, a historian, author, and academic. Russell has written extensively on the history of social and cultural change, and his work focuses on how marginalized and oppressed groups have challenged and transformed mainstream culture. Russell is known for his unconventional and controversial ideas, and his work has been praised for its originality and provocative nature.
My classes utilize both Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States and Larry Schweikart's Patriot's History of the United States, mostly in excerpts posted to the modules.
My classes utilize both Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States and Larry Schweikart's Patriot's History of the United States, mostly in excerpts posted to the modules.

Zinn, A People's History of the United States
"... Still, understanding the complexities, this book will be skeptical of governments and their attempts, through politics and culture, to ensnare ordinary people in a giant web of nationhood pretending to a common interest. I will try not to overlook the cruelties that victims inflict on one another as they are jammed together in the boxcars of the system. I don't want to romanticize them. But I do remember (in rough paraphrase) a statement I once read: "The cry of the poor is not always just, but if you don't listen to it, you will never know what justice is...
...We have here a forecast of the long history of American politics, the mobilization of lower-class energy by upper-class politicians, for their own purposes. This was not purely deception; it involved, in part, a genuine recognition of lower-class grievances, which helps to account for its effectiveness as a tactic over the centuries...
...The laws .. . have deprived nine tenths of the members of the body politics, who are not wealthy, of the equal means to enjoy "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." ... The lien law in favor of the landlords against tenants ... is one illustration among innumerable others."
"... Still, understanding the complexities, this book will be skeptical of governments and their attempts, through politics and culture, to ensnare ordinary people in a giant web of nationhood pretending to a common interest. I will try not to overlook the cruelties that victims inflict on one another as they are jammed together in the boxcars of the system. I don't want to romanticize them. But I do remember (in rough paraphrase) a statement I once read: "The cry of the poor is not always just, but if you don't listen to it, you will never know what justice is...
...We have here a forecast of the long history of American politics, the mobilization of lower-class energy by upper-class politicians, for their own purposes. This was not purely deception; it involved, in part, a genuine recognition of lower-class grievances, which helps to account for its effectiveness as a tactic over the centuries...
...The laws .. . have deprived nine tenths of the members of the body politics, who are not wealthy, of the equal means to enjoy "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." ... The lien law in favor of the landlords against tenants ... is one illustration among innumerable others."

Larry Schweikart, A Patriot's History of the United States
...As colonies became independent and as the nation grew, these ideas permeated the fabric of the founding documents. Despite pits of corruption that have pockmarked federal and state politics— some of them quite deep—and despite abuses of civil rights that were shocking, to say the least, the concept was deeply imbedded that only a virtuous nation could achieve the lofty goals set by the Founders. Over the long haul, the Republic required virtuous leaders to prosper...
..Far more than today, though, politics—and not the family—absorbed the attention of colonial men. Virtually anyone who either paid taxes or owned a minimum of property could vote for representation in both the upper and lower houses of the legislature, although in some colonies (Pennsylvania and New York) there was a higher property qualification required for the upper house than for the lower house. When it came to holding office, most districts required a candidate to have at least one hundred pounds in wealth or one hundred acres, but several colonies had no requirements for holding office. Put another way, American colonials took politics seriously and believed that virtually everyone could participate. Two colonies stand out as examples of the trends in North American politics by the late 1700s—Virginia and Maryland...
...Politicians had also started to become permanent Washington fixtures. Far from the Jeffersonian ideal of citizen legislators, many of the people who ran the nation had never lived or worked outside of Washington; most of the members of Congress were lawyers who had gone straight from
law school to government work. Few had ever run a business or had had to show a profit or meet a payroll. In contrast, as legislators, when government ran short of money, they either ran a deficit or hiked taxes. There was never any talk of actually cutting back, or belt tightening. Gradually, popular resentment built up against 'politics as usual.'"
...As colonies became independent and as the nation grew, these ideas permeated the fabric of the founding documents. Despite pits of corruption that have pockmarked federal and state politics— some of them quite deep—and despite abuses of civil rights that were shocking, to say the least, the concept was deeply imbedded that only a virtuous nation could achieve the lofty goals set by the Founders. Over the long haul, the Republic required virtuous leaders to prosper...
..Far more than today, though, politics—and not the family—absorbed the attention of colonial men. Virtually anyone who either paid taxes or owned a minimum of property could vote for representation in both the upper and lower houses of the legislature, although in some colonies (Pennsylvania and New York) there was a higher property qualification required for the upper house than for the lower house. When it came to holding office, most districts required a candidate to have at least one hundred pounds in wealth or one hundred acres, but several colonies had no requirements for holding office. Put another way, American colonials took politics seriously and believed that virtually everyone could participate. Two colonies stand out as examples of the trends in North American politics by the late 1700s—Virginia and Maryland...
...Politicians had also started to become permanent Washington fixtures. Far from the Jeffersonian ideal of citizen legislators, many of the people who ran the nation had never lived or worked outside of Washington; most of the members of Congress were lawyers who had gone straight from
law school to government work. Few had ever run a business or had had to show a profit or meet a payroll. In contrast, as legislators, when government ran short of money, they either ran a deficit or hiked taxes. There was never any talk of actually cutting back, or belt tightening. Gradually, popular resentment built up against 'politics as usual.'"

Thaddeus Russell, A Renegade History of the United States
"...On nearly every block in every eighteenth-century American city, there was a public place where one could drink, sing, dance, have sex, argue politics, gamble, play games, or generally carouse with men, women, children, whites, blacks, Indians, the rich, the poor, and the middling. The Founding Fathers were keenly, painfully aware of this..."
"...On nearly every block in every eighteenth-century American city, there was a public place where one could drink, sing, dance, have sex, argue politics, gamble, play games, or generally carouse with men, women, children, whites, blacks, Indians, the rich, the poor, and the middling. The Founding Fathers were keenly, painfully aware of this..."
In the sprawling saga of American tales, where the threads of authority, politics, and everyday lives weave together, it often feels like we're stuck in a bizarre sitcom penned by Kafka and helmed by Tarantino. Zinn, Schweikart, and Russell could be the comedic trio of history buffs, each serving up their version of truth serum to the storyline.
Zinn starts the spectacle with "A People's History of the United States," a hefty volume that reads like a horror flick for the common folk. He sheds light on the shady side of American glory, where the land of freedom was erected on the shoulders of the oppressed. It's akin to discovering your favorite superhero moonlights as the villain, just with better PR. The Gilded Age? It's more like the Guilded Cage, where the elite played Monopoly with real lives while the rest of us struggled to pass "Go" without landing on a chance card that read, "You lose everything."
Then, Schweikart enters, the eternal optimist waving his flag in "A Patriot's History of the United States." He views Uncle Sam as the star-spangled hero, spreading democracy like cream cheese on a bagel. Sure, there were a few blunders along the way, like that whole slavery debacle, but hey, you can't whip up progress without cracking a few eggs, right? It's like witnessing a cheerleader at a funeral, desperately trying to pep up the crowd while everyone else is mourning.
And let's not overlook Russell, the renegade historian crashing the bash with "A Renegade History of the United States." He's like the rebel rocker of historical narratives, flipping tradition the bird and dancing to his tune. According to him, while the Founding Fathers were busy drafting documents, the real action unfolded in the streets, where folks mingled like it was the wildest party in town. It's akin to discovering your grandparents had a wild side – shocking yet oddly liberating.
But amidst this clash of viewpoints, one thing rings true: history is just a fancy term for human shenanigans on repeat. The labor movement of yesteryear? It's the same old song and dance as today's gig economy, where we're all just one algorithm away from becoming modern-day serfs. The more things change, the more they stay the same, like a cringe-worthy rerun of a sitcom nobody signed up for.
So, as we sift through the debris of the past, let's remember that history isn't just a laundry list of facts; it's a mirror reflecting our collective absurdity. And if we ever hope to break free from this endless loop of power and privilege, it's time to tweak the script and give ourselves a happier ending. Because in a world like this topsy-turvy, the least we can do is find some twisted humor in the chaos and pray it doesn't drive us completely bonkers.
THE RUNDOWN
QUESTIONS
Zinn starts the spectacle with "A People's History of the United States," a hefty volume that reads like a horror flick for the common folk. He sheds light on the shady side of American glory, where the land of freedom was erected on the shoulders of the oppressed. It's akin to discovering your favorite superhero moonlights as the villain, just with better PR. The Gilded Age? It's more like the Guilded Cage, where the elite played Monopoly with real lives while the rest of us struggled to pass "Go" without landing on a chance card that read, "You lose everything."
Then, Schweikart enters, the eternal optimist waving his flag in "A Patriot's History of the United States." He views Uncle Sam as the star-spangled hero, spreading democracy like cream cheese on a bagel. Sure, there were a few blunders along the way, like that whole slavery debacle, but hey, you can't whip up progress without cracking a few eggs, right? It's like witnessing a cheerleader at a funeral, desperately trying to pep up the crowd while everyone else is mourning.
And let's not overlook Russell, the renegade historian crashing the bash with "A Renegade History of the United States." He's like the rebel rocker of historical narratives, flipping tradition the bird and dancing to his tune. According to him, while the Founding Fathers were busy drafting documents, the real action unfolded in the streets, where folks mingled like it was the wildest party in town. It's akin to discovering your grandparents had a wild side – shocking yet oddly liberating.
But amidst this clash of viewpoints, one thing rings true: history is just a fancy term for human shenanigans on repeat. The labor movement of yesteryear? It's the same old song and dance as today's gig economy, where we're all just one algorithm away from becoming modern-day serfs. The more things change, the more they stay the same, like a cringe-worthy rerun of a sitcom nobody signed up for.
So, as we sift through the debris of the past, let's remember that history isn't just a laundry list of facts; it's a mirror reflecting our collective absurdity. And if we ever hope to break free from this endless loop of power and privilege, it's time to tweak the script and give ourselves a happier ending. Because in a world like this topsy-turvy, the least we can do is find some twisted humor in the chaos and pray it doesn't drive us completely bonkers.
THE RUNDOWN
- Zinn's "A People's History of the United States" critiques American history, spotlighting exploitation and injustices suffered by ordinary people under elite-driven governance.
- Schweikart's "A Patriot's History of the United States" offers an optimistic view, highlighting democratic virtues and accessibility to politics, especially during the colonial era.
- Russell's "A Renegade History of the United States" portrays a lively social scene in eighteenth-century America, suggesting unease among the Founding Fathers regarding its inclusivity.
- The Gilded Age exemplifies Zinn's perspective, showcasing industrialist exploitation and government complicity in worker suffering.
- Schweikart's perspective could emphasize democratic ideals and eventual labor reforms during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
- Russell's lens might focus on grassroots organizing and solidarity among workers, challenging traditional power structures.
QUESTIONS
- In "A People's History of the United States," Howard Zinn critiques American history by highlighting the suffering of ordinary people under elite-driven governance. How does Zinn's perspective differ from that of Schweikart's "A Patriot's History of the United States," which offers a more optimistic view?
- According to Russell's "A Renegade History of the United States," how did the social scene in eighteenth-century America challenge traditional views of inclusivity? How might this perspective contrast with the perspectives of Zinn and Schweikart?
- How does the Gilded Age exemplify Howard Zinn's perspective in "A People's History of the United States," particularly in terms of industrialist exploitation and government involvement in worker suffering? How might this period be viewed differently through the lens of Schweikart's "A Patriot's History of the United States" or Russell's "A Renegade History of the United States"?
Prepare to be transported into the captivating realm of historical films and videos. Brace yourselves for a mind-bending odyssey through time as we embark on a cinematic expedition. Within these flickering frames, the past morphs into a vivid tapestry of triumphs, tragedies, and transformative moments that have shaped the very fabric of our existence. We shall immerse ourselves in a whirlwind of visual narratives, dissecting the nuances of artistic interpretations, examining the storytelling techniques, and voraciously devouring historical accuracy with the ferocity of a time-traveling historian. So strap in, hold tight, and prepare to have your perception of history forever shattered by the mesmerizing lens of the camera.
THE RUNDOWN
In the grand tapestry of democracy, ancient Athenian debates in the agora mingle with modern Twitter squabbles over pineapple on pizza, underscoring the evolution and absurdities of citizen governance. While Athenian direct democracy had its exclusivity, modern systems, with their universal suffrage, stand as a testament to the progress of citizen participation. Yet, these systems are not without their shadows, with the Electoral College and political machinations reminiscent of a reality TV show. From philosophical debates to shallow Twitter rants, democracy's journey resembles a series of botched surgeries, where civic duty competes with Netflix binges. Despite the comedic twists, democracy's messy spectacle, from Socrates to Snooki, from the Acropolis to Applebee's, reminds us of the multifaceted human experience, where pineapple on pizza still sparks debates.
In the grand tapestry of democracy, ancient Athenian debates in the agora mingle with modern Twitter squabbles over pineapple on pizza, underscoring the evolution and absurdities of citizen governance. While Athenian direct democracy had its exclusivity, modern systems, with their universal suffrage, stand as a testament to the progress of citizen participation. Yet, these systems are not without their shadows, with the Electoral College and political machinations reminiscent of a reality TV show. From philosophical debates to shallow Twitter rants, democracy's journey resembles a series of botched surgeries, where civic duty competes with Netflix binges. Despite the comedic twists, democracy's messy spectacle, from Socrates to Snooki, from the Acropolis to Applebee's, reminds us of the multifaceted human experience, where pineapple on pizza still sparks debates.
Welcome to the mind-bending Key Terms extravaganza of our history class learning module. Brace yourselves; we will unravel the cryptic codes, secret handshakes, and linguistic labyrinths that make up the twisted tapestry of historical knowledge. These key terms are the Rosetta Stones of our academic journey, the skeleton keys to unlocking the enigmatic doors of comprehension. They're like historical Swiss Army knives, equipped with blades of definition and corkscrews of contextual examples, ready to pierce through the fog of confusion and liberate your intellectual curiosity. By harnessing the power of these mighty key terms, you'll possess the superhuman ability to traverse the treacherous terrains of primary sources, surf the tumultuous waves of academic texts, and engage in epic battles of historical debate. The past awaits, and the key terms are keys to unlocking its dazzling secrets.
KEY TERMS
KEY TERMS
- 1754 BCE - Code of Hammurabi
- 508 BCE - Athenian Democracy
- 509 BCE - Roman Republic
- 451 BCE - Twelve Tables
- 45 BCE - Julian Calendar
- 44 BCE - Julius Caesar
- 27 BCE - Fall of the Roman Republic
- 529 CE - Justinian Code
- 496 CE - Conversion of Clovis
- 800 CE - Charlemagne's Coronation
- 800 CE - Feudalism
- 843 CE - Treaty of Verdun
- 1100 CE - Charter of Liberties
- 1215 CE - Magna Carta
- 1215 CE - Fourth Lateran Council
- 1356 - Golden Bull
- 1412 CE - Joan of Arc
- 1414 CE - Council of Constance
- 1453 CE - Fall of Constantinople
- 711CE - Reconquista
DISCLAIMER: Welcome scholars to the wild and wacky world of history class. This isn't your granddaddy's boring ol' lecture, baby. We will take a trip through time, which will be one wild ride. I know some of you are in a brick-and-mortar setting, while others are in the vast digital wasteland. But fear not; we're all in this together. Online students might miss out on some in-person interaction, but you can still join in on the fun. This little shindig aims to get you all engaged with the course material and understand how past societies have shaped the world we know today. We'll talk about revolutions, wars, and other crazy stuff. So get ready, kids, because it's going to be one heck of a trip. And for all, you online students out there, don't be shy. Please share your thoughts and ideas with the rest of us. The Professor will do his best to give everyone an equal opportunity to learn, so don't hold back. So, let's do this thing!
Activity #1: UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Objective:
Activity #1: UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Objective:
Activity #2: UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Ladies and gentlemen, gather 'round for the pièce de résistance of this classroom module - the summary section. As we embark on this tantalizing journey, we'll savor the exquisite flavors of knowledge, highlighting the fundamental ingredients and spices that have seasoned our minds throughout these captivating lessons. Prepare to indulge in a savory recap that will leave your intellectual taste buds tingling, serving as a passport to further enlightenment.
The wild ride of Western Civilization's political escapades is a tale packed with more twists than a soap opera and enough power grabs to rival a royal rumble. As we journey through the archives of time, we encounter not just lofty ideals like democracy and justice but also the grim realities of human behavior—greed, corruption, and a hunger for power that could put a hungry bear to shame.
Let's start our adventure in Ancient Greece, where democracy was as rare as a unicorn sighting in Times Square. Sure, they gave it a shot, but it was more like an exclusive club where only the toga-clad and silver-tongued could join. Talk about equal opportunities, huh?
Then there's the Roman Republic, with its fancy-schmancy checks and balances meant to keep ambitious senators in check. But alas, even the mightiest republics aren't immune to power grabs, especially when generals start eyeing the throne and shouting "Imperator!" in their sleep. Betrayal, thy name is Roman politics.
And let's not overlook the Byzantine Empire, where politics and religion tangled like spaghetti on a fork, leaving regular folks caught in the mess. The Iconoclastic Controversy? It's more like a showdown between old dudes arguing over whose beard was fluffier. Meanwhile, the common folk just wanted a break on their taxes.
Fast forward to the age of exploration, when Europe decided the world was its oyster. Forget about respecting other cultures or basic decency—let's just plant flags and call it a day. Christopher Columbus? More like Christopher Colonizer, sailing the seas in search of new lands to exploit. "Discovery" never tasted so bitter.
But amid the chaos, there were glimmers of hope—moments when regular Joes and Janes said, "Enough already." From the Civil Rights Movement to the battle for women's suffrage, the underdogs shake things up.
So, as we ponder the rollercoaster ride of Western Civilization, let's remember that history isn't just a laundry list of events—it's a reflection of who we are. And maybe, just maybe, if we own up to our mistakes, we can steer this ship in a better direction. No pressure. We're only human, after all.
or, in other words:
Let's start our adventure in Ancient Greece, where democracy was as rare as a unicorn sighting in Times Square. Sure, they gave it a shot, but it was more like an exclusive club where only the toga-clad and silver-tongued could join. Talk about equal opportunities, huh?
Then there's the Roman Republic, with its fancy-schmancy checks and balances meant to keep ambitious senators in check. But alas, even the mightiest republics aren't immune to power grabs, especially when generals start eyeing the throne and shouting "Imperator!" in their sleep. Betrayal, thy name is Roman politics.
And let's not overlook the Byzantine Empire, where politics and religion tangled like spaghetti on a fork, leaving regular folks caught in the mess. The Iconoclastic Controversy? It's more like a showdown between old dudes arguing over whose beard was fluffier. Meanwhile, the common folk just wanted a break on their taxes.
Fast forward to the age of exploration, when Europe decided the world was its oyster. Forget about respecting other cultures or basic decency—let's just plant flags and call it a day. Christopher Columbus? More like Christopher Colonizer, sailing the seas in search of new lands to exploit. "Discovery" never tasted so bitter.
But amid the chaos, there were glimmers of hope—moments when regular Joes and Janes said, "Enough already." From the Civil Rights Movement to the battle for women's suffrage, the underdogs shake things up.
So, as we ponder the rollercoaster ride of Western Civilization, let's remember that history isn't just a laundry list of events—it's a reflection of who we are. And maybe, just maybe, if we own up to our mistakes, we can steer this ship in a better direction. No pressure. We're only human, after all.
or, in other words:
- Ancient Greece's pioneering democracy in 508 BCE, though groundbreaking, excluded marginalized groups like women and slaves, illustrating the limitations of early democratic experimentation.
- The Roman Republic's establishment around 509 BCE introduced a system of checks and balances to prevent the concentration of power, yet faced challenges such as corruption and the rise of authoritarian figures like Julius Caesar.
- The Byzantine Empire, spanning from 330 CE, endured for over a millennium but grappled with bureaucratic inefficiencies and religious conflicts, reflecting the complexities of governance in a multicultural and religiously diverse society.
- Pre-1500 politics, exemplified by European colonization's impact on indigenous peoples, underscore the enduring consequences of power dynamics and social inequalities on contemporary issues of race, identity, and sovereignty.
- Studying historical events like the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s and the struggle for women's suffrage provides critical insights into the complexities of social change and the role of marginalized groups in shaping political outcomes.
- Recognizing diverse perspectives in historical interpretation, as demonstrated by historians like Zinn, Schweikart, and Russell, enriches understanding of the complexities of human experience and the dynamic nature of history itself.
ASSIGNMENTS
Remember all assignments, tests and quizzes must be submitted official via BLACKBOARD
Forum Discussion #06
- Forum Discussion #6
Remember all assignments, tests and quizzes must be submitted official via BLACKBOARD
Forum Discussion #06
TEDx is a global network dedicated to hosting TED-style gatherings across the globe, spotlighting grassroots ideas and propelling them onto the world stage. Independently organized, TEDx events adhere to TED's guidelines and format, featuring speakers handpicked by event organizers. Watch the following:
Please answer the following question:
Do you think "Game of Thrones" accurately portrays medieval politics? Why or why not? How does Golubeever's perspective on medieval institutions like religion and ideas compare to the portrayal of power in "Game of Thrones"? Can you think of any modern examples where politics resembles the dynamics seen in "Game of Thrones"? Share your thoughts and provide examples to support your viewpoint.
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
THE RUNDOWN
In the TEDx Shorts episode, Atosa Leone hosts the historian Maria Golubeever, who skillfully dismantles romanticized views of medieval politics. She reveals a complex landscape of power dynamics, far removed from the drama of "Game of Thrones." With her trademark wit and insightful analysis, Golubeever critiques the myth of chivalry, exposes the dark truths of historical conflicts driven by religion, and importantly, warns against the dangers of imposing narrow visions of the "good life" in modern politics. Her words serve as a stark reminder of the folly of our past and the importance of unity in shaping a hopeful future, leaving viewers pondering the absurdity of human existence and the necessity of learning from history's lessons.
Do you think "Game of Thrones" accurately portrays medieval politics? Why or why not? How does Golubeever's perspective on medieval institutions like religion and ideas compare to the portrayal of power in "Game of Thrones"? Can you think of any modern examples where politics resembles the dynamics seen in "Game of Thrones"? Share your thoughts and provide examples to support your viewpoint.
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
THE RUNDOWN
In the TEDx Shorts episode, Atosa Leone hosts the historian Maria Golubeever, who skillfully dismantles romanticized views of medieval politics. She reveals a complex landscape of power dynamics, far removed from the drama of "Game of Thrones." With her trademark wit and insightful analysis, Golubeever critiques the myth of chivalry, exposes the dark truths of historical conflicts driven by religion, and importantly, warns against the dangers of imposing narrow visions of the "good life" in modern politics. Her words serve as a stark reminder of the folly of our past and the importance of unity in shaping a hopeful future, leaving viewers pondering the absurdity of human existence and the necessity of learning from history's lessons.
Hey, welcome to the work cited section! Here's where you'll find all the heavy hitters that inspired the content you've just consumed. Some might think citations are as dull as unbuttered toast, but nothing gets my intellectual juices flowing like a good reference list. Don't get me wrong, just because we've cited a source; doesn't mean we're always going to see eye-to-eye. But that's the beauty of it - it's up to you to chew on the material and come to conclusions. Listen, we've gone to great lengths to ensure these citations are accurate, but let's face it, we're all human. So, give us a holler if you notice any mistakes or suggest more sources. We're always looking to up our game. Ultimately, it's all about pursuing knowledge and truth.
Work Cited:
Work Cited:
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