Module Five: From Knights to Rights
The tumultuous saga of Western civilization's political history since 1500 CE is a thrilling rollercoaster ride through a theme park of genius, barbarity, advancement, and setback. Unpacking this wild ride is a deep dive into the murky depths of our shared psyche, where the absurdities of power and ambition collide with the dreams of regular folks. It's a story best enjoyed with dark wit, sprinkled with satire, and topped off with a healthy serving of biting social commentary.
Our journey through the annals of history begins with the Renaissance, a time of intellectual feasting and artistic spectacle that transformed the world. Picture the air thick with the scent of rebirth, as the profound musings of Plato and Aristotle mingled with the intoxicating aroma of oil paint. The Renaissance, a breath of fresh air in the stifling era of medieval ignorance, was not without its shadows. Behind the grand cathedrals and exquisite paintings, the Medici family orchestrated Florence's cultural scene with the finesse of seasoned puppet masters.
Our next stop is the Age of Exploration, a smorgasbord of ambition and conquest that came at a high cost. Envision intrepid explorers embarking on perilous voyages, enticed by the allure of wealth and driven by zealous missionary fervor. Yet, beneath the veneer of discovery, a quagmire of exploitation and subjugation festered. The plundering of native lands, the annihilation of indigenous cultures, and the abhorrent practice of slavery—all justified in the name of progress and profit. Columbus may have stumbled upon the New World, but it was a bitter discovery, a harsh reality to swallow with your afternoon tea.
Enter the Enlightenment, a swanky soirée where reason was king and absolutism was given the boot. Thinkers like Locke and Voltaire waltzed to the tune of liberty while kings quivered in their opulent palaces. But alas, not everyone had a taste for the Enlightenment. Colonial subjects languished under the thumb of the empire, their cries for freedom drowned out by the clinking of aristocratic glasses. And let's not forget the grim spectacle of the guillotine as the French Revolution descended into a blood-drenched frenzy of terror and tyranny, a stark irony to the enlightened ideals that sparked the revolution.
Now, let's turn our attention to the Industrial Revolution, a tempestuous affair of progress and pollution. Imagine the towering smokestacks of advancement, belching out the acrid scent of wealth. But amidst the clamor of machinery and the thunder of steam engines, the working class toiled in the bowels of the factory, their sweat and blood lubricating the wheels of progress. Luddites, in a desperate act of defiance, smashed machines in protest against the relentless march of mechanization, while industrialists amassed fortunes at the expense of the downtrodden masses, a stark reminder of the human cost of progress.
As we digest these historical tidbits, let's not overlook the pièce de résistance: the French Revolution, an array of folly and fanaticism. What started as a noble quest for freedom and equality ended in a grotesque circus of violence and despotism. The guillotine feasted on the aristocracy, while Robespierre's reign of terror cast a shadow over the revolution's lofty ideals. Ultimately, it wasn't the people but a pint-sized Corsican who seized power, ushering in an era of imperial conquest and continental chaos.
THE RUNDOWN
QUESTIONS
Our journey through the annals of history begins with the Renaissance, a time of intellectual feasting and artistic spectacle that transformed the world. Picture the air thick with the scent of rebirth, as the profound musings of Plato and Aristotle mingled with the intoxicating aroma of oil paint. The Renaissance, a breath of fresh air in the stifling era of medieval ignorance, was not without its shadows. Behind the grand cathedrals and exquisite paintings, the Medici family orchestrated Florence's cultural scene with the finesse of seasoned puppet masters.
Our next stop is the Age of Exploration, a smorgasbord of ambition and conquest that came at a high cost. Envision intrepid explorers embarking on perilous voyages, enticed by the allure of wealth and driven by zealous missionary fervor. Yet, beneath the veneer of discovery, a quagmire of exploitation and subjugation festered. The plundering of native lands, the annihilation of indigenous cultures, and the abhorrent practice of slavery—all justified in the name of progress and profit. Columbus may have stumbled upon the New World, but it was a bitter discovery, a harsh reality to swallow with your afternoon tea.
Enter the Enlightenment, a swanky soirée where reason was king and absolutism was given the boot. Thinkers like Locke and Voltaire waltzed to the tune of liberty while kings quivered in their opulent palaces. But alas, not everyone had a taste for the Enlightenment. Colonial subjects languished under the thumb of the empire, their cries for freedom drowned out by the clinking of aristocratic glasses. And let's not forget the grim spectacle of the guillotine as the French Revolution descended into a blood-drenched frenzy of terror and tyranny, a stark irony to the enlightened ideals that sparked the revolution.
Now, let's turn our attention to the Industrial Revolution, a tempestuous affair of progress and pollution. Imagine the towering smokestacks of advancement, belching out the acrid scent of wealth. But amidst the clamor of machinery and the thunder of steam engines, the working class toiled in the bowels of the factory, their sweat and blood lubricating the wheels of progress. Luddites, in a desperate act of defiance, smashed machines in protest against the relentless march of mechanization, while industrialists amassed fortunes at the expense of the downtrodden masses, a stark reminder of the human cost of progress.
As we digest these historical tidbits, let's not overlook the pièce de résistance: the French Revolution, an array of folly and fanaticism. What started as a noble quest for freedom and equality ended in a grotesque circus of violence and despotism. The guillotine feasted on the aristocracy, while Robespierre's reign of terror cast a shadow over the revolution's lofty ideals. Ultimately, it wasn't the people but a pint-sized Corsican who seized power, ushering in an era of imperial conquest and continental chaos.
THE RUNDOWN
- The Renaissance sparked intellectual revival and cultural advancements but also fostered political instability and elitism, exemplified by the influence of the Medicis in Florence.
- The Age of Exploration expanded horizons and facilitated economic growth yet led to colonization, exploitation, and the transatlantic slave trade, epitomized by the Spanish conquest of the Americas.
- The Enlightenment championed reason and democratic ideals while witnessing conflicts between enlightened despotism and democratic aspirations, such as during the French Revolution.
- The Industrial Revolution revolutionized economies and technology but also brought about labor exploitation and widening wealth disparities, seen in the harsh conditions of early factories and the rise of labor movements.
- The French Revolution initially pursued liberty and equality but descended into violence and dictatorship, leaving a legacy of nationalist movements and authoritarian regimes across Europe.
- Studying these political developments provides insights into governance complexities, struggles for justice, and the enduring quest for human dignity, vital for addressing contemporary global challenges.
QUESTIONS
- Discuss the impact of the Renaissance on both intellectual growth and political instability. How did the influence of powerful families like the Medicis shape the cultural landscape of Florence?
- Explain the consequences of the Age of Exploration. How did it contribute to economic expansion while also leading to colonization, exploitation, and the transatlantic slave trade, particularly evident in the Spanish conquest of the Americas?
- Describe the core principles of the Enlightenment and its influence on political thought. How did conflicts between enlightened despotism and democratic ideals unfold during events like the French Revolution?
#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
World Map, 1500 CE
In the bustling chaos of 1533 CE, the world resembled the aftermath of a chili cook-off in a packed elevator. In Europe, the Renaissance was in full swing, with artists crafting masterpieces while the common folk pondered their next meal, debating between a roasted rat or a stale loaf of bread. Meanwhile, over in Asia, the Ming Dynasty was strutting its stuff, overseeing an era of economic boom and cultural dazzle. In the midst of this, Emperor Akbar of the Mughal Empire was championing religious tolerance, a value that was as rare as a diamond in a coal mine. And let's not overlook Africa, a continent as diverse as a pantry filled with every flavor of ramen noodles, where the Songhai Empire and the Kingdom of Kongo were flexing their muscles, trading goods and ideas with the rest of the world as if they were playing a high-stakes game of Civilization. But hold up; we can't forget about the Americas, where the Aztec and Inca Empires were throwing the most extravagant parties this side of the Atlantic, complete with feathered headdresses, golden trinkets, and sacrificial rituals that would make even the most seasoned reality TV producers blush. And when things were heating up, the Europeans came, crashing the party like uninvited guests who brought smallpox instead of wine. Yes, 1533 was a time of dynamic change, where cultures collided like bumper cars at rush hour, and everyone was trying to navigate the chaos without losing their heads, quite literally in some cases.
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 16. Overturning the Political and Social Order: The French Revolution and Napoleon, 1789-1815
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
- Women during the French Revolution gained significant titles, but legal equality was mainly secured for men.
- The revolutionaries and Napoleon ensured legal equality for French men but didn't extend it to women.
- The middle class lost some control post-revolution to royalists and monarchists.
- Attempts were made to revert to pre-revolutionary power dynamics but were unsuccessful in fully restoring the old order.
- The Revolution abolished the divine right of kings, leading to changes in power dynamics.
- The peasantry benefited from reduced burdens and gained more rights during the Revolution.
- Napoleon both subverted and preserved elements of the Revolution, altering governance and spreading its ideas through conquests.
- The French Revolution and Napoleon's era left lasting impacts, inspiring future revolutions and creating a potent image of revolutionary change and charismatic leadership.
- Post-1815, attempts to revert to the old order faced resistance as revolutionary ideas had become entrenched in society.
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..."
The labyrinthine maze of American politics is a colorful quilt stitched together with strands of power, a force that can be both constructive and corrupting, corruption, and, every now and then, a glint of decency. When we peek into the archives of Western Civilization, we can't help but marvel at the bold tango between those in charge and us common folk—a dance that often feels more like stumbling through a carnival's hall of mirrors after a few too many.
Imagine this: a politician, slick as a spilled oil drum, handing out promises like Halloween candy while pocketing the hard-earned dough of the masses. It's a tale as ancient as powdered wigs and "taxation without representation," a saga stretching from William Jennings Bryan charming farmers with his silver tongue to Nixon playing political roulette with Watergate, a scandal that led to his resignation and a major blow to the public's trust in the government. Some things never change. At least Nixon had the decency to bow out when the heat got too intense, didn't he?
Now, let's chat about virtue—or the glaring absence of it. The Founding Fathers waxed lyrical about the importance of virtuous leadership, as if a dash of moral fiber could cure a fledgling nation's ills. Yet here we are, centuries later, watching leaders wade through scandal like pigs in a wallow. Nixon's Watergate debacle was just the start, a juicy scandal that shook the nation and left a mark on the Oval Office that no amount of bleach could scrub clean. But fear not, for every Nixon, there's a Lincoln or Roosevelt lurking in the shadows, poised to restore our faith in humanity—until the next scandal hits, that is. It's a cycle that repeats, a reminder that history, for all its lessons, often finds itself repeating.
And remember the good old days when politics was a spectator sport for the masses? Back in colonial times, you could stroll down to your local tavern, knock back a few pints, and hash out the finer points of democracy with your neighbors. Fast forward to today, and Joe Average is more likely to be scrolling through Twitter, a platform that has revolutionized political discourse, than rubbing elbows with elected officials. The rise of the political elite has turned us, mere mortals, into extras in a B-list movie, relegated to the sidelines while the big shots pull the strings from their ivory towers.
But hey, it's not all gloom and doom. Despite the dumpster fire that is American politics, there's still a glimmer of hope flickering in the darkness. The public squares and taverns may have given way to virtual forums and social media echo chambers, but the spirit of democracy endures. As we stumble through the 21st century, let's cling to the lessons of history like a life raft in a stormy sea. Because if there's one thing we've learned from the past, it's that the American people, with their unwavering resilience, can weather any storm, even those of their own making.
THE RUNDOWN
QUESTIONS
Imagine this: a politician, slick as a spilled oil drum, handing out promises like Halloween candy while pocketing the hard-earned dough of the masses. It's a tale as ancient as powdered wigs and "taxation without representation," a saga stretching from William Jennings Bryan charming farmers with his silver tongue to Nixon playing political roulette with Watergate, a scandal that led to his resignation and a major blow to the public's trust in the government. Some things never change. At least Nixon had the decency to bow out when the heat got too intense, didn't he?
Now, let's chat about virtue—or the glaring absence of it. The Founding Fathers waxed lyrical about the importance of virtuous leadership, as if a dash of moral fiber could cure a fledgling nation's ills. Yet here we are, centuries later, watching leaders wade through scandal like pigs in a wallow. Nixon's Watergate debacle was just the start, a juicy scandal that shook the nation and left a mark on the Oval Office that no amount of bleach could scrub clean. But fear not, for every Nixon, there's a Lincoln or Roosevelt lurking in the shadows, poised to restore our faith in humanity—until the next scandal hits, that is. It's a cycle that repeats, a reminder that history, for all its lessons, often finds itself repeating.
And remember the good old days when politics was a spectator sport for the masses? Back in colonial times, you could stroll down to your local tavern, knock back a few pints, and hash out the finer points of democracy with your neighbors. Fast forward to today, and Joe Average is more likely to be scrolling through Twitter, a platform that has revolutionized political discourse, than rubbing elbows with elected officials. The rise of the political elite has turned us, mere mortals, into extras in a B-list movie, relegated to the sidelines while the big shots pull the strings from their ivory towers.
But hey, it's not all gloom and doom. Despite the dumpster fire that is American politics, there's still a glimmer of hope flickering in the darkness. The public squares and taverns may have given way to virtual forums and social media echo chambers, but the spirit of democracy endures. As we stumble through the 21st century, let's cling to the lessons of history like a life raft in a stormy sea. Because if there's one thing we've learned from the past, it's that the American people, with their unwavering resilience, can weather any storm, even those of their own making.
THE RUNDOWN
- Throughout American history, politicians have often used the problems of regular people to help themselves get ahead.
- The country's founders thought that only good people should be in charge, but leaders haven't always lived up to that standard.
- In the past, regular folks could take part in politics, but now it's mostly left to the pros in Washington.
- Cities in the 1700s were lively places where everyone could join in political talk and meetings.
- These public spaces were important because they let everyday people talk to their leaders directly.
- Learning about how power and politics have changed over time helps us understand how to make democracy work better today.
QUESTIONS
- How did the founders of the United States envision leadership in government, and how does it compare to the reality we observe in history?
- Discuss the role of everyday citizens in politics during the 1700s compared to today. How has this role evolved over time?
- Why were public spaces and gatherings crucial for political discourse in the 1700s? How does this compare to how political discussions occur today?
DISMANTLING THE “WEST” by C.M. Duffy
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
The French Revolution was a macabre spectacle, a dance of opulence and bloodshed. Imagine a scene where powdered wigs brushed against the crimson of bourgeois demise, where the scent of croissants was overpowered by the looming scent of revolt. In the glittering palaces, the elite reveled in excess, while outside, commoners clung to morsels like desperate rodents. The tax policies, like cruel love letters from the monarchy, only deepened the chasm between the classes. The Estates General, once a platform for political discourse, descended into chaos and quill-flinging. Then came the storming of the Bastille, a revolutionary act that was more than just knocking down doors. It was a symbol of the people's power, paving a path to liberty amidst rolling heads. The women of Versailles, not marching for vanity, but for justice and sustenance, fueled a fire that engulfed the old order. In the midst of this turmoil, the guillotine's blade fell, severing not just heads but the illusions of inequality. As aristocratic blood stained the cobblestones, a new dawn emerged, one where liberty, equality, and perhaps even a decent baguette for all, were tangible aspirations.
The French Revolution was a macabre spectacle, a dance of opulence and bloodshed. Imagine a scene where powdered wigs brushed against the crimson of bourgeois demise, where the scent of croissants was overpowered by the looming scent of revolt. In the glittering palaces, the elite reveled in excess, while outside, commoners clung to morsels like desperate rodents. The tax policies, like cruel love letters from the monarchy, only deepened the chasm between the classes. The Estates General, once a platform for political discourse, descended into chaos and quill-flinging. Then came the storming of the Bastille, a revolutionary act that was more than just knocking down doors. It was a symbol of the people's power, paving a path to liberty amidst rolling heads. The women of Versailles, not marching for vanity, but for justice and sustenance, fueled a fire that engulfed the old order. In the midst of this turmoil, the guillotine's blade fell, severing not just heads but the illusions of inequality. As aristocratic blood stained the cobblestones, a new dawn emerged, one where liberty, equality, and perhaps even a decent baguette for all, were tangible aspirations.
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
- 1533 - Elizabeth I
- 1632 - John Locke
- 1638 - Louis XIV
- 1648 - Treaty of Westphalia
- 1729 - Catherine the Great
- 1743 - Thomas Jefferson
- 1754 Louis XVI
- 1769 - Napoleon Bonaparte
- 1815 - Otto von Bismarck
- 1787 - U.S. Constitution
- 1789 - Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen
- 1919 - Treaty of Versailles
- 1889 - Adolf Hitler
- 1878 - Joseph Stalin
- 1945 - United Nations Charter
- 1925 - Margaret Thatcher
- 1917 - John F. Kennedy
- 1874 - Winston Churchill
- 1954 - Angela Merkel
- 1952 - Vladimir Putin
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
Activity #2: UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Activity #1: UNDER CONSTRUCTION
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.
In the sprawling saga we call human history, politics struts onto the stage as both the maestro and the off-key note, conducting symphonies of progress and chaos. From the majestic halls of Renaissance Florence to the smog-choked factories of the Industrial Revolution, our journey through Western Civilization resembles a rollercoaster ride of ambition, exploitation, and the perpetual quest for that elusive thing called dignity.
Let's kick off our slightly twisted sightseeing tour with the Medici family, the Renaissance's dazzling overlords of art and autocracy. Imagine Florence: a city buzzing with creative energy, where Michelangelo was busy carving marble masterpieces, and Leonardo da Vinci was sketching out blueprints for flying contraptions. But lurking in the shadows of this cultural explosion were the Medici, the ultimate patrons with a knack for wielding power like a sledgehammer. Sure, they threw cash at the arts, but they also turned Florence into their kingdom, where dissent was about as welcome as a tofu burger at a barbecue joint. The takeaway? Even the prettiest tapestries have some unsightly threads of tyranny.
Now, let's zip forward to the Age of Exploration, where brave sailors embarked on voyages searching for wealth, spices, and new lands to exploit. Ah, the Spanish Conquest of the Americas—where gold flowed like water and indigenous peoples were treated like yesterday's leftovers. It's the age-old tale of "find a place, conquer its folks, and call it progress." At least they brought smallpox-infected blankets along with their Bibles, right? The Age of Exploration: where egos were bigger than the maps.
Now, let's shine a light on the Enlightenment, shall we? Ah, the Enlightenment—a time when reason was all the rage, and philosophers pondered the universe's mysteries over coffee and pipe smoke. But for every Voltaire preaching freedom of speech, there was a Rousseau romanticizing noble savages or a Diderot poking the bear. And then there's the pièce de résistance: the French Revolution. What began as a quest for liberty and equality ended with more headless bodies than a headless body emporium. The moral? When toppling monarchies, always have a Plan B that doesn't involve mass decapitations.
Ah, the Industrial Revolution—the era of progress, innovation, and treating workers like replaceable parts in a clanking behemoth. Picture a scene straight out of Dickens: smokestacks spewing filth, kids working in mills, and laborers earning just enough to buy a coffin after collapsing from exhaustion. At least we got steam engines and assembly lines—the Industrial Revolution, where the only thing heavier than the machines was the burden of human suffering.
So why bother studying these epochs of power, loot, and progress? Buried beneath the rubble of empires and revolutions lie lessons we can't afford to forget. As George Santayana put it, "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." For every bleak chapter in our history, there's a glimmer of hope, a dash of defiance, a reminder that even in the bleakest times, the human spirit persists.
Here's to politics—the art of the possible, the science of the absurd, and the ongoing saga of humanity trying to make sense of civilization. May we glean wisdom from our past, chuckle at our missteps, and endeavor to build a future worthy of the struggles that preceded us. And if all else fails, we'll have plenty of material for the tragicomic masterpiece, the human experience.
Or, in others words:
Let's kick off our slightly twisted sightseeing tour with the Medici family, the Renaissance's dazzling overlords of art and autocracy. Imagine Florence: a city buzzing with creative energy, where Michelangelo was busy carving marble masterpieces, and Leonardo da Vinci was sketching out blueprints for flying contraptions. But lurking in the shadows of this cultural explosion were the Medici, the ultimate patrons with a knack for wielding power like a sledgehammer. Sure, they threw cash at the arts, but they also turned Florence into their kingdom, where dissent was about as welcome as a tofu burger at a barbecue joint. The takeaway? Even the prettiest tapestries have some unsightly threads of tyranny.
Now, let's zip forward to the Age of Exploration, where brave sailors embarked on voyages searching for wealth, spices, and new lands to exploit. Ah, the Spanish Conquest of the Americas—where gold flowed like water and indigenous peoples were treated like yesterday's leftovers. It's the age-old tale of "find a place, conquer its folks, and call it progress." At least they brought smallpox-infected blankets along with their Bibles, right? The Age of Exploration: where egos were bigger than the maps.
Now, let's shine a light on the Enlightenment, shall we? Ah, the Enlightenment—a time when reason was all the rage, and philosophers pondered the universe's mysteries over coffee and pipe smoke. But for every Voltaire preaching freedom of speech, there was a Rousseau romanticizing noble savages or a Diderot poking the bear. And then there's the pièce de résistance: the French Revolution. What began as a quest for liberty and equality ended with more headless bodies than a headless body emporium. The moral? When toppling monarchies, always have a Plan B that doesn't involve mass decapitations.
Ah, the Industrial Revolution—the era of progress, innovation, and treating workers like replaceable parts in a clanking behemoth. Picture a scene straight out of Dickens: smokestacks spewing filth, kids working in mills, and laborers earning just enough to buy a coffin after collapsing from exhaustion. At least we got steam engines and assembly lines—the Industrial Revolution, where the only thing heavier than the machines was the burden of human suffering.
So why bother studying these epochs of power, loot, and progress? Buried beneath the rubble of empires and revolutions lie lessons we can't afford to forget. As George Santayana put it, "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." For every bleak chapter in our history, there's a glimmer of hope, a dash of defiance, a reminder that even in the bleakest times, the human spirit persists.
Here's to politics—the art of the possible, the science of the absurd, and the ongoing saga of humanity trying to make sense of civilization. May we glean wisdom from our past, chuckle at our missteps, and endeavor to build a future worthy of the struggles that preceded us. And if all else fails, we'll have plenty of material for the tragicomic masterpiece, the human experience.
Or, in others words:
- The Renaissance led to cool art and science stuff but also made some powerful families too bossy, like the Medicis in Florence.
- Exploring the Americas made Spain rich, but it also hurt a lot of Native Americans and started slavery.
- The Enlightenment was all about smart ideas and freedom, but it also had some bad times, like the French Revolution turning into chaos.
- Factories during the Industrial Revolution made life better for some, but they treated workers really badly, which made them protest.
- Learning about history helps us understand why things are like they are today, like how democracy has changed over time.
- Studying different viewpoints in history, like the Civil Rights Movement, shows us how people fought for fairness and made laws to stop discrimination.
ASSIGNMENTS
Forum Discussion #06
- Forum Discussion #6
Forum Discussion #06
The School of Life YouTube channel offers insightful and engaging content exploring various aspects of emotional intelligence, philosophy, psychology, and self-improvement. Watch the following:
Please answer the following question:
Considering Machiavelli's view that effective leadership may sometimes require tough decisions and even ruthlessness, do you believe it's possible for a leader to balance being both effective and kind? Can you think of any historical or contemporary examples that support or challenge Machiavelli's perspective?
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
THE RUNDOWN
Introduce yourself to Niccolò Machiavelli, the mastermind of political manipulation, whose guidebook straddles the line between brilliance and deceit. In 'The Prince,' Machiavelli presents a toolkit of tactics so cunning they'd make even the most seasoned schemer blush. Here, in this Machiavellian world, Christian ethics clash with pragmatic governance as Machiavelli champions power over morality. Cesare Borgia, the epitome of Machiavellian finesse, leaves a trail of broken bodies and alliances, yet his name shines in the annals of power. But as we confront Machiavelli's stark truths, we ponder the fate of the human spirit in a realm where the ends justify the means. Despite the darkness, a flicker of hope remains, transcending the machinations of power with a spark of humanity.
Considering Machiavelli's view that effective leadership may sometimes require tough decisions and even ruthlessness, do you believe it's possible for a leader to balance being both effective and kind? Can you think of any historical or contemporary examples that support or challenge Machiavelli's perspective?
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
THE RUNDOWN
Introduce yourself to Niccolò Machiavelli, the mastermind of political manipulation, whose guidebook straddles the line between brilliance and deceit. In 'The Prince,' Machiavelli presents a toolkit of tactics so cunning they'd make even the most seasoned schemer blush. Here, in this Machiavellian world, Christian ethics clash with pragmatic governance as Machiavelli champions power over morality. Cesare Borgia, the epitome of Machiavellian finesse, leaves a trail of broken bodies and alliances, yet his name shines in the annals of power. But as we confront Machiavelli's stark truths, we ponder the fate of the human spirit in a realm where the ends justify the means. Despite the darkness, a flicker of hope remains, transcending the machinations of power with a spark of humanity.
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:
- UNDER CONSTRUCTION
- (Disclaimer: This is not professional or legal advice. If it were, the article would be followed with an invoice. Do not expect to win any social media arguments by hyperlinking my articles. Chances are, we are both wrong).
- (Trigger Warning: This article or section, or pages it links to, contains antiquated language or disturbing images which may be triggering to some.)
- (Permission to reprint this blog post in whole or in part is granted, provided that the author (or authors) and www.ryanglancaster.com are appropriately cited.)
- This site is for educational purposes only.
- Disclaimer: This learning module was primarily created by the professor with the assistance of AI technology. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information presented, please note that the AI's contribution was limited to some regions of the module. The professor takes full responsibility for the content of this module and any errors or omissions therein. This module is intended for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional advice or consultation. The professor and AI cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from using this module.
- Fair Use: Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act of 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education, and research. Fair use is permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.
- Fair Use Definition: Fair use is a doctrine in United States copyright law that allows limited use of copyrighted material without requiring permission from the rights holders, such as commentary, criticism, news reporting, research, teaching, or scholarship. It provides for the legal, non-licensed citation or incorporation of copyrighted material in another author’s work under a four-factor balancing test.