HST 202 Module #14
Hanging Chad (2000 CE -2013 CE)
The period from 2000 CE to 2013 CE was a crucial time in United States history, marked by significant events that had far-reaching consequences. This era witnessed the election of two presidents, major terrorist attacks, wars, and economic crises. Studying this period is important as it provides a comprehensive understanding of contemporary American society, its challenges, and opportunities.
The first significant event of this period was the 2000 presidential election, which was marked by a controversial result in Florida. George W. Bush was declared the winner, despite losing the popular vote, and his presidency was marked by the September 11 terrorist attacks in 2001. This event led to the War on Terror, which saw the U.S. invade Afghanistan and later Iraq. The wars had a significant impact on American foreign policy, and the country's relationship with the rest of the world.
The 2008 financial crisis is another critical event of this era, which had far-reaching consequences for the U.S. economy and beyond. The crisis was caused by a housing bubble, which burst, causing a recession. The crisis led to job losses, bank failures, and a decline in home values. The U.S. government responded with a bailout package for banks and stimulus measures to revive the economy.
During this period, there were also several advancements in technology and social media, which had a significant impact on American society. The rise of social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter transformed the way people interacted with each other, and how news was consumed. Smartphones became ubiquitous, enabling people to stay connected on-the-go and access information from anywhere at any time.
Another significant event was the election of Barack Obama as the first African American president in 2008. His presidency was marked by several achievements, such as the passage of the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. However, his presidency was also marked by political polarization, with opposition from the Republican party and the rise of the Tea Party movement.
The period from 2000 CE to 2013 CE was a time of both positives and negatives for the U.S. While there were several significant achievements, there were also several challenges, including economic downturns, wars, and political polarization. Studying this era is essential to understanding contemporary American society and its challenges, and opportunities.
THE RUNDOWN
QUESTIONS
Works Cited:
Henretta, James A., and Eric Hinderaker. America's History, Eighth Edition. Bedford/St. Martin's, 2013.
Holt, Thomas C., et al. Major Problems in American History Since 1945. Cengage Learning, 2012.
Jones, Jacqueline, et al. Created Equal: A History of the United States, Volume 2. Pearson Education, 2013.
The period from 2000 CE to 2013 CE was a crucial time in United States history, marked by significant events that had far-reaching consequences. This era witnessed the election of two presidents, major terrorist attacks, wars, and economic crises. Studying this period is important as it provides a comprehensive understanding of contemporary American society, its challenges, and opportunities.
The first significant event of this period was the 2000 presidential election, which was marked by a controversial result in Florida. George W. Bush was declared the winner, despite losing the popular vote, and his presidency was marked by the September 11 terrorist attacks in 2001. This event led to the War on Terror, which saw the U.S. invade Afghanistan and later Iraq. The wars had a significant impact on American foreign policy, and the country's relationship with the rest of the world.
The 2008 financial crisis is another critical event of this era, which had far-reaching consequences for the U.S. economy and beyond. The crisis was caused by a housing bubble, which burst, causing a recession. The crisis led to job losses, bank failures, and a decline in home values. The U.S. government responded with a bailout package for banks and stimulus measures to revive the economy.
During this period, there were also several advancements in technology and social media, which had a significant impact on American society. The rise of social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter transformed the way people interacted with each other, and how news was consumed. Smartphones became ubiquitous, enabling people to stay connected on-the-go and access information from anywhere at any time.
Another significant event was the election of Barack Obama as the first African American president in 2008. His presidency was marked by several achievements, such as the passage of the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. However, his presidency was also marked by political polarization, with opposition from the Republican party and the rise of the Tea Party movement.
The period from 2000 CE to 2013 CE was a time of both positives and negatives for the U.S. While there were several significant achievements, there were also several challenges, including economic downturns, wars, and political polarization. Studying this era is essential to understanding contemporary American society and its challenges, and opportunities.
THE RUNDOWN
- The period from 2000 CE to 2013 CE was a crucial time in US history.
- Significant events during this period included the controversial 2000 presidential election, the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the War on Terror, the 2008 financial crisis, and the election of Barack Obama.
- Advancements in technology and social media also had a significant impact on American society during this period.
- Positives of the era included the achievements of Obama's presidency and the rise of technology and social media.
- Negatives of the era included economic downturns, wars, and political polarization.
- Studying this era is essential for understanding contemporary American society and its challenges and opportunities.
QUESTIONS
- How did advancements in technology and social media transform American society during this era, and what were the positive and negative consequences?
- What were some of the achievements of Barack Obama's presidency, and how did his election impact American society?
- How did the 2008 financial crisis impact the US economy and society as a whole, and what measures did the government take to respond to the crisis?
Works Cited:
Henretta, James A., and Eric Hinderaker. America's History, Eighth Edition. Bedford/St. Martin's, 2013.
Holt, Thomas C., et al. Major Problems in American History Since 1945. Cengage Learning, 2012.
Jones, Jacqueline, et al. Created Equal: A History of the United States, Volume 2. Pearson Education, 2013.
#14: Expertise Is Not Real
The next rule of history: "expertise," as we understand it is mainly fake. In academia, there's a saying that instead of measuring what we value, we value what we can measure. Researchers can manipulate numbers and facts to support any hypothesis or be a stronghold for confirmation bias. But history academics also rely on non-statistical data, meaning you read history and try to get some lessons. And historical specialization can cause an issue within academic learning.
Specialization sounds good and is ultimately rooted in a desire for a more egalitarian intellectual culture. In this way of thinking, a PhD is just as much of a "doctor" as a Noble Prize-winning physicist and has much more credibility in any field. Not everyone can engage in careful analysis of data in a way that can withstand scrutiny, but lower the standards enough and create enough areas, and a lot of people can be experts. Since people aren't getting more competent, more experts mean that the average intelligence of those influencing public policy drops. Part of the reason that specialization is terrible is that people have to justify the field's existence. Some historians have some terrible takes because they need to be original to get published.
Don't tune into the History channel and expect to find much-involving history. Historical thought has given up its death rattle and has been replaced by reality shows. And this happens because of how the world works. There are two kinds of people – those who don't care about past events and who soak it in. You can guess which sample size would be more prominent. An alternative now is video platforms like YouTube. As a form of social media, YouTube has moved beyond vapid videos of cute animals to something where historians can discuss every topic under the sun. This ubiquitous social media allows those interested in history to find an audience, which is a good thing.
Nonetheless, this emerging trend has a drawback: anyone with a camera can hit record and share their knowledge. Although many history videos on YouTube are visually appealing, their information is often superficial. Instead of thoroughly researched documentaries with multiple sources, viewers are presented with polished lectures that reflect one person's interpretation of past events or historical items. These individuals rarely disclose their research methods or how they arrived at their conclusions, resulting in inaccurate or biased information. The proliferation of false information on the platform has enabled conspiracy theorists and other purveyors of dubious narratives to propagate their ideas. Consequently, almost anyone can present themselves as an authoritative source of knowledge. These video narrators speak to the camera with an air of supreme expertise on the subject matter.
Throughout history, readers have had to scrutinize the quality of research. In the past, this has been accomplished by perusing footnotes and bibliographies. Readers could always verify a writer's sources to assess the accuracy or authenticity of the printed material, unlike today, where it is predominantly misleading.
History has been a fancy-pants part of academics for centuries. Those who call themselves historians, with their big brains and fancy degrees, are supposed to be the top dogs when understanding the past. Their fancy interpretations shape the way we see history as a whole. But some eggheads reckon that all this expertise stuff is just a bunch of nonsense, especially when it comes to history. They say that the nature of digging up old stuff, with all its biases and different points of view, makes it impossible to claim the absolute truth about what happened back in the day. Let's look at that argument and what it means for studying history today.
We need to have a reality check about history - it's got its flaws, just like any other discipline. The past is a murky, mysterious beast we can never fully grasp. Historians can only do their best to piece it together using limited sources. And even then, the accounts they come up with are influenced by the political, social, and cultural contexts in which they were written. These factors can twist and turn the facts until they're barely recognizable. The result? A narrative that serves the interests and biases of the historian who wrote it. That means historical interpretations are far from absolute truths. They reflect the historian's perspective and how they interpret the available evidence.
So, if you want to understand the past truly, you've got to be aware of the limitations of history. Otherwise, you may be getting a skewed version of the story.
If you delve into the annals of history, you'll find an intriguing case study on how our interpretations of past events can be shaped by our current times. It's the tale of Christopher Columbus, a once-revered figure in the Western world who was believed to have "discovered" America and ushered in a new era of enlightenment. But as the years went by, a different version of the story emerged that challenged conventional wisdom and exposed the darker side of Columbus's arrival.
The modern-day scholarship on Columbus is a fascinating exercise in cultural reevaluation. On the one hand, you have the traditional narrative, which portrays Columbus as a visionary explorer who brought the light of civilization to a savage land. On the other hand, you have a more nuanced perspective that acknowledges the profound violence and oppression that accompanied Columbus's expedition. This alternative view highlights the atrocities committed against the indigenous peoples of the Americas, including their enslavement and genocide.
What's intriguing about this revisionist take on Columbus is that it reflects our own time's shifting values and interests. We recognize that our understanding of the past is always subject to revision and that the stories we tell about our forebears are not set in stone. As we grapple with social justice issues and reckon with the legacies of colonialism, we are increasingly inclined to view historical figures like Columbus through a more critical lens.
The story of Columbus is a potent reminder of how contemporary concerns can shape historical interpretation. It prompts us to question our assumptions and challenge conventional wisdom, and it underscores the vital importance of ongoing dialogue and debate about our shared past. Ultimately, the story of Columbus reminds us that history is not a fixed entity but a living, breathing thing constantly evolving and adapting to the world around us.
You see, historical knowledge is like a compass guiding us through the complex issues of our time. By understanding the past, we gain insight into the present and can navigate the treacherous waters of our society with greater ease. Take conflicts, for example. By studying history, we can uncover the root causes of these disputes and find ways to resolve them.
But history isn't just about conflict, my friends. It's about learning from the successes and failures of the past and using that knowledge to shape a better future. Public policy, for instance, can be informed by historical precedent. By examining past initiatives, we can determine what works and doesn't and create genuinely effective policies.
And let's remember the diversity of human experience. History shows us countless ways of living and being in this world, and it challenges us to question our assumptions and prejudices. We can build a more inclusive and compassionate society by appreciating the richness and complexity of our shared history. This is the dilemma, then. "Trust the experts" can lead the public astray, and so does "don't trust the experts." While that's an issue for most people, for intellectuals, the problem is more soluble. When you don't have the time to research something for yourself, you should trust those who have good intellectual habits.
THE RUNDOWN
The next rule of history: "expertise," as we understand it is mainly fake. In academia, there's a saying that instead of measuring what we value, we value what we can measure. Researchers can manipulate numbers and facts to support any hypothesis or be a stronghold for confirmation bias. But history academics also rely on non-statistical data, meaning you read history and try to get some lessons. And historical specialization can cause an issue within academic learning.
Specialization sounds good and is ultimately rooted in a desire for a more egalitarian intellectual culture. In this way of thinking, a PhD is just as much of a "doctor" as a Noble Prize-winning physicist and has much more credibility in any field. Not everyone can engage in careful analysis of data in a way that can withstand scrutiny, but lower the standards enough and create enough areas, and a lot of people can be experts. Since people aren't getting more competent, more experts mean that the average intelligence of those influencing public policy drops. Part of the reason that specialization is terrible is that people have to justify the field's existence. Some historians have some terrible takes because they need to be original to get published.
Don't tune into the History channel and expect to find much-involving history. Historical thought has given up its death rattle and has been replaced by reality shows. And this happens because of how the world works. There are two kinds of people – those who don't care about past events and who soak it in. You can guess which sample size would be more prominent. An alternative now is video platforms like YouTube. As a form of social media, YouTube has moved beyond vapid videos of cute animals to something where historians can discuss every topic under the sun. This ubiquitous social media allows those interested in history to find an audience, which is a good thing.
Nonetheless, this emerging trend has a drawback: anyone with a camera can hit record and share their knowledge. Although many history videos on YouTube are visually appealing, their information is often superficial. Instead of thoroughly researched documentaries with multiple sources, viewers are presented with polished lectures that reflect one person's interpretation of past events or historical items. These individuals rarely disclose their research methods or how they arrived at their conclusions, resulting in inaccurate or biased information. The proliferation of false information on the platform has enabled conspiracy theorists and other purveyors of dubious narratives to propagate their ideas. Consequently, almost anyone can present themselves as an authoritative source of knowledge. These video narrators speak to the camera with an air of supreme expertise on the subject matter.
Throughout history, readers have had to scrutinize the quality of research. In the past, this has been accomplished by perusing footnotes and bibliographies. Readers could always verify a writer's sources to assess the accuracy or authenticity of the printed material, unlike today, where it is predominantly misleading.
History has been a fancy-pants part of academics for centuries. Those who call themselves historians, with their big brains and fancy degrees, are supposed to be the top dogs when understanding the past. Their fancy interpretations shape the way we see history as a whole. But some eggheads reckon that all this expertise stuff is just a bunch of nonsense, especially when it comes to history. They say that the nature of digging up old stuff, with all its biases and different points of view, makes it impossible to claim the absolute truth about what happened back in the day. Let's look at that argument and what it means for studying history today.
We need to have a reality check about history - it's got its flaws, just like any other discipline. The past is a murky, mysterious beast we can never fully grasp. Historians can only do their best to piece it together using limited sources. And even then, the accounts they come up with are influenced by the political, social, and cultural contexts in which they were written. These factors can twist and turn the facts until they're barely recognizable. The result? A narrative that serves the interests and biases of the historian who wrote it. That means historical interpretations are far from absolute truths. They reflect the historian's perspective and how they interpret the available evidence.
So, if you want to understand the past truly, you've got to be aware of the limitations of history. Otherwise, you may be getting a skewed version of the story.
If you delve into the annals of history, you'll find an intriguing case study on how our interpretations of past events can be shaped by our current times. It's the tale of Christopher Columbus, a once-revered figure in the Western world who was believed to have "discovered" America and ushered in a new era of enlightenment. But as the years went by, a different version of the story emerged that challenged conventional wisdom and exposed the darker side of Columbus's arrival.
The modern-day scholarship on Columbus is a fascinating exercise in cultural reevaluation. On the one hand, you have the traditional narrative, which portrays Columbus as a visionary explorer who brought the light of civilization to a savage land. On the other hand, you have a more nuanced perspective that acknowledges the profound violence and oppression that accompanied Columbus's expedition. This alternative view highlights the atrocities committed against the indigenous peoples of the Americas, including their enslavement and genocide.
What's intriguing about this revisionist take on Columbus is that it reflects our own time's shifting values and interests. We recognize that our understanding of the past is always subject to revision and that the stories we tell about our forebears are not set in stone. As we grapple with social justice issues and reckon with the legacies of colonialism, we are increasingly inclined to view historical figures like Columbus through a more critical lens.
The story of Columbus is a potent reminder of how contemporary concerns can shape historical interpretation. It prompts us to question our assumptions and challenge conventional wisdom, and it underscores the vital importance of ongoing dialogue and debate about our shared past. Ultimately, the story of Columbus reminds us that history is not a fixed entity but a living, breathing thing constantly evolving and adapting to the world around us.
You see, historical knowledge is like a compass guiding us through the complex issues of our time. By understanding the past, we gain insight into the present and can navigate the treacherous waters of our society with greater ease. Take conflicts, for example. By studying history, we can uncover the root causes of these disputes and find ways to resolve them.
But history isn't just about conflict, my friends. It's about learning from the successes and failures of the past and using that knowledge to shape a better future. Public policy, for instance, can be informed by historical precedent. By examining past initiatives, we can determine what works and doesn't and create genuinely effective policies.
And let's remember the diversity of human experience. History shows us countless ways of living and being in this world, and it challenges us to question our assumptions and prejudices. We can build a more inclusive and compassionate society by appreciating the richness and complexity of our shared history. This is the dilemma, then. "Trust the experts" can lead the public astray, and so does "don't trust the experts." While that's an issue for most people, for intellectuals, the problem is more soluble. When you don't have the time to research something for yourself, you should trust those who have good intellectual habits.
THE RUNDOWN
- Historians can manipulate data and have confirmation bias.
- Being a specialist in history can sometimes mean you're competent in data analysis.
- Reality shows have replaced the history channel, but YouTube has historians sharing information.
- Anyone can make history videos on YouTube, but the information can be inaccurate or biased.
- Historians try to piece together the past, but various contexts can twist it.
- Historical interpretations reflect the historian's perspective and available evidence.
- Christopher Columbus's tale shows how current values can shape our interpretations of past events.
HIGHLIGHTS
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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
- COMING SOON
READING
Carnes, Chapter 32: Shocks and Responses: 1992-Present
Mark C. Carnes and John A. Garraty are respected historians who have made notable contributions to American history. Carnes specializes in American education and culture, focusing on the role of secret societies in shaping American culture in the 19th century. Garraty is known for his general surveys of American history, his biographies of American historical figures and studies of specific aspects of American history, and his clear and accessible writing.
My classes utilize both Howard Zinn's Patriot's History of the United States and Larry Schweikart's Patriot's History of the United States, mostly in excerpts posted to the modules. You can access the full text of People's History or Patriot's History by clicking on the links.
Carnes, Chapter 32: Shocks and Responses: 1992-Present
Mark C. Carnes and John A. Garraty are respected historians who have made notable contributions to American history. Carnes specializes in American education and culture, focusing on the role of secret societies in shaping American culture in the 19th century. Garraty is known for his general surveys of American history, his biographies of American historical figures and studies of specific aspects of American history, and his clear and accessible writing.
My classes utilize both Howard Zinn's Patriot's History of the United States and Larry Schweikart's Patriot's History of the United States, mostly in excerpts posted to the modules. You can access the full text of People's History or Patriot's History by clicking on the links.
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 Patriot's History of the United States and Larry Schweikart's Patriot's History of the United States, mostly in excerpts posted to the modules. You can access the full text of People's History or Patriot's History by clicking on the links.
My classes utilize both Howard Zinn's Patriot's History of the United States and Larry Schweikart's Patriot's History of the United States, mostly in excerpts posted to the modules. You can access the full text of People's History or Patriot's History by clicking on the links.
Zinn, A People's History of the United States
"... The idea of saviors has been built into the entire culture, beyond politics. We have learned to look to stars, leaders, experts in every field, thus surrendering our own strength, demeaning our own ability, obliterating our own selves. But from time to time, Americans reject that idea and rebel.
These rebellions, so far, have been contained. The American system is the most ingenious system of control in world history. With a country so rich in natural resources, talent, and labor power the system can afford to distribute just enough wealth to just enough people to limit discontent to a troublesome minority. It is a country so powerful, so big, so pleasing to so many of its citizens that it can afford to give freedom of dissent to the small number who are not pleased.
There is no system of control with more openings, apertures, leeways, flexibilities, rewards for the chosen, winning tickets in lotteries. There is none that disperses its controls more complexly through the voting system, the work situation, the church, the family, the school, the mass media-none more successful in mollifying opposition with reforms, isolating people from one another, creating patriotic loyalty.
One percent of the nation owns A third of the wealth. The rest of the wealth is distributed in such a way as to turn those in the 99 percent against one another: small property owners against the propertyless, black against white, native-born against foreign-born, intellectuals and professionals against the uneducated and unskilled. These groups have resented one another and warred against one another with such vehemence and violence as to obscure their common position as sharers of leftovers in a very wealthy country..."
"... The idea of saviors has been built into the entire culture, beyond politics. We have learned to look to stars, leaders, experts in every field, thus surrendering our own strength, demeaning our own ability, obliterating our own selves. But from time to time, Americans reject that idea and rebel.
These rebellions, so far, have been contained. The American system is the most ingenious system of control in world history. With a country so rich in natural resources, talent, and labor power the system can afford to distribute just enough wealth to just enough people to limit discontent to a troublesome minority. It is a country so powerful, so big, so pleasing to so many of its citizens that it can afford to give freedom of dissent to the small number who are not pleased.
There is no system of control with more openings, apertures, leeways, flexibilities, rewards for the chosen, winning tickets in lotteries. There is none that disperses its controls more complexly through the voting system, the work situation, the church, the family, the school, the mass media-none more successful in mollifying opposition with reforms, isolating people from one another, creating patriotic loyalty.
One percent of the nation owns A third of the wealth. The rest of the wealth is distributed in such a way as to turn those in the 99 percent against one another: small property owners against the propertyless, black against white, native-born against foreign-born, intellectuals and professionals against the uneducated and unskilled. These groups have resented one another and warred against one another with such vehemence and violence as to obscure their common position as sharers of leftovers in a very wealthy country..."
Larry Schweikart, A Patriot's History of the United States
"... In many ways, Operation Enduring Freedom was even more successful than Desert Storm, routing the Taliban and Al Qaeda and searching them out in the Tora Bora mountains, where bin Laden was thought to have holed up. A massive bombing of the mountains in December either drove bin Laden farther underground or seriously wounded him. Within a few months, the Taliban were evicted, and special forces had hunted down and killed hundreds of Al Qaeda terrorists and arrested thousands of others for interrogation. By 2003, bin Laden had not made a single verifiable public appearance that could be time-stamped or dated, despite several tape recordings he released. In fact, he was becoming irrelevant as more subtle American financial attacks were shutting down much of the worldwide financial network supporting Al Qaeda and establishing a civilian functioning government in Afghanistan. One year after the attacks, it was thought that close to half of Al
Qaeda’s leaders were dead or in custody.
Another casualty of Operation Enduring Freedom was 'gloomster' journalism. A Gallup Poll conducted in November 2001 found that 54 percent of the public disapproved of the news media, although Bush’s ratings remained in the high 80 percent range. Indeed, the news media was the only major American organization to see its approval numbers decline (and the numbers declined precipitously). On the other hand, for the first time, polls asked people what they thought of cabinet members, and again, the results stunned the hostile media. Defense Secretary Rumsfeld had an 80 percent approval rating, Vice President Cheney had a 75 percent rating, and Secretary of State Powell topped the list with an 87 percent favorable rating. Bush’s instincts for choosing competent people, far from insulating him from decision making, had proven prescient..."
"... In many ways, Operation Enduring Freedom was even more successful than Desert Storm, routing the Taliban and Al Qaeda and searching them out in the Tora Bora mountains, where bin Laden was thought to have holed up. A massive bombing of the mountains in December either drove bin Laden farther underground or seriously wounded him. Within a few months, the Taliban were evicted, and special forces had hunted down and killed hundreds of Al Qaeda terrorists and arrested thousands of others for interrogation. By 2003, bin Laden had not made a single verifiable public appearance that could be time-stamped or dated, despite several tape recordings he released. In fact, he was becoming irrelevant as more subtle American financial attacks were shutting down much of the worldwide financial network supporting Al Qaeda and establishing a civilian functioning government in Afghanistan. One year after the attacks, it was thought that close to half of Al
Qaeda’s leaders were dead or in custody.
Another casualty of Operation Enduring Freedom was 'gloomster' journalism. A Gallup Poll conducted in November 2001 found that 54 percent of the public disapproved of the news media, although Bush’s ratings remained in the high 80 percent range. Indeed, the news media was the only major American organization to see its approval numbers decline (and the numbers declined precipitously). On the other hand, for the first time, polls asked people what they thought of cabinet members, and again, the results stunned the hostile media. Defense Secretary Rumsfeld had an 80 percent approval rating, Vice President Cheney had a 75 percent rating, and Secretary of State Powell topped the list with an 87 percent favorable rating. Bush’s instincts for choosing competent people, far from insulating him from decision making, had proven prescient..."
Thaddeus Russell, A Renegade History of the United States
".... A Renegade History goes deeper. It goes beneath what the new “social history” portrayed as the bottom. It tells the story of “bad” Americans—drunkards, prostitutes, “shiftless” slaves and white slackers, criminals, juvenile delinquents, brazen homosexuals, and others who operated beneath American society—and shows how they shaped our world, created new pleasures, and expanded our freedoms. This is history from the gutter up.
A Renegade History also offers a different way of conceiving historical progress than is found in textbooks. The story of this country is not just one of struggles between rich and poor, white and black, men and women. American history was also driven by clashes between those interested in preserving community and those more interested in pursuing their own desires—the “respectable” versus the “degenerate,” the moral versus the immoral, “good citizens” versus the “bad.” This is the story of American civilization and its discontents..."
What Does Professor Lancaster Think?
The United States of America is a nation with a rich history, culture, and politics. However, a critical examination of these elements reveals the complex power dynamics that shape the country. The unequal distribution of wealth and the system of control that limits dissent are just a few examples of these dynamics. Additionally, the ways in which marginalized and "bad" Americans have contributed to shaping the nation's identity and expanding its freedoms cannot be ignored. Through the lens of American history, this essay will examine these power dynamics, providing detailed examples from history after 2001 and discussing the positives and negatives of those events. It will also explain why studying this subject is important today.
One of the most significant examples of power dynamics in American history after 2001 is the War on Terror. This war, which began in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, was a response to the perceived threat of terrorism. The government's response to this threat involved significant power dynamics that shaped the country. The Patriot Act, for example, allowed the government to conduct surveillance on citizens without a warrant. This law curtailed individual freedoms and was a clear example of the system of control that limits dissent. The government's response to the War on Terror also involved the unequal distribution of wealth. The cost of the war, which is estimated to be over $6 trillion, was paid for by taxpayers. This placed an enormous financial burden on middle and lower-class Americans.
However, the War on Terror also had some positive outcomes. The creation of the Department of Homeland Security, for example, helped improve the country's security and prevented future terrorist attacks. The war also resulted in the death of Osama bin Laden, the mastermind behind the 9/11 attacks. This event was a significant victory for the United States and helped to restore a sense of national pride.
Another example of power dynamics in American history after 2001 is the Black Lives Matter movement. This movement was a response to the systemic racism and police brutality faced by black Americans. The movement challenged the power dynamics that had been in place for centuries and forced the country to confront its history of racism. The movement also demonstrated how marginalized Americans can contribute to shaping the nation's identity and expanding its freedoms. The protests and demonstrations that took place across the country helped bring about changes in policing and criminal justice. These changes were a significant victory for black Americans and helped improve their lives.
However, the Black Lives Matter movement also had some negative outcomes. Some of the protests turned violent, resulting in property damage and injuries. This violence detracted from the movement's message and led some people to view the movement as dangerous.
Studying power dynamics in American culture, politics, and history is important today because it helps us understand how our country operates. By examining these dynamics, we can identify areas where change is needed and work to improve our society. For example, understanding the power dynamics that led to the War on Terror can help us avoid making similar mistakes in the future. Similarly, understanding the power dynamics that underlie the Black Lives Matter movement can help us address issues of racism and inequality in our society.
In conclusion, a critical examination of American culture, politics, and history reveals the complex power dynamics that shape the country. History after 2001 has provided us with many examples of these dynamics, including the War on Terror and the Black Lives Matter movement. While these events have had both positive and negative outcomes, they have taught us valuable lessons about power and its impact on society. It is important to study this subject today so that we can continue to learn from the past and work towards a better future for all Americans.
Work Cited:
"The Cost of War" - Watson Institute, Brown University
"The Patriot Act" - American Civil Liberties Union
"Black Lives Matter" -
"Black Lives Matter: A Movement, Not a Moment" - The New York Times
"The Power of Black Lives Matter and Why It's Different This Time" - TIME
"The 9/11 Commission Report" - National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States
"The War on Terror: How It All Began" - History.com
"Policing in America: Understanding Public Attitudes Toward the Police" - Pew Research Center
THE RUNDOWN
QUESTIONS
".... A Renegade History goes deeper. It goes beneath what the new “social history” portrayed as the bottom. It tells the story of “bad” Americans—drunkards, prostitutes, “shiftless” slaves and white slackers, criminals, juvenile delinquents, brazen homosexuals, and others who operated beneath American society—and shows how they shaped our world, created new pleasures, and expanded our freedoms. This is history from the gutter up.
A Renegade History also offers a different way of conceiving historical progress than is found in textbooks. The story of this country is not just one of struggles between rich and poor, white and black, men and women. American history was also driven by clashes between those interested in preserving community and those more interested in pursuing their own desires—the “respectable” versus the “degenerate,” the moral versus the immoral, “good citizens” versus the “bad.” This is the story of American civilization and its discontents..."
What Does Professor Lancaster Think?
The United States of America is a nation with a rich history, culture, and politics. However, a critical examination of these elements reveals the complex power dynamics that shape the country. The unequal distribution of wealth and the system of control that limits dissent are just a few examples of these dynamics. Additionally, the ways in which marginalized and "bad" Americans have contributed to shaping the nation's identity and expanding its freedoms cannot be ignored. Through the lens of American history, this essay will examine these power dynamics, providing detailed examples from history after 2001 and discussing the positives and negatives of those events. It will also explain why studying this subject is important today.
One of the most significant examples of power dynamics in American history after 2001 is the War on Terror. This war, which began in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, was a response to the perceived threat of terrorism. The government's response to this threat involved significant power dynamics that shaped the country. The Patriot Act, for example, allowed the government to conduct surveillance on citizens without a warrant. This law curtailed individual freedoms and was a clear example of the system of control that limits dissent. The government's response to the War on Terror also involved the unequal distribution of wealth. The cost of the war, which is estimated to be over $6 trillion, was paid for by taxpayers. This placed an enormous financial burden on middle and lower-class Americans.
However, the War on Terror also had some positive outcomes. The creation of the Department of Homeland Security, for example, helped improve the country's security and prevented future terrorist attacks. The war also resulted in the death of Osama bin Laden, the mastermind behind the 9/11 attacks. This event was a significant victory for the United States and helped to restore a sense of national pride.
Another example of power dynamics in American history after 2001 is the Black Lives Matter movement. This movement was a response to the systemic racism and police brutality faced by black Americans. The movement challenged the power dynamics that had been in place for centuries and forced the country to confront its history of racism. The movement also demonstrated how marginalized Americans can contribute to shaping the nation's identity and expanding its freedoms. The protests and demonstrations that took place across the country helped bring about changes in policing and criminal justice. These changes were a significant victory for black Americans and helped improve their lives.
However, the Black Lives Matter movement also had some negative outcomes. Some of the protests turned violent, resulting in property damage and injuries. This violence detracted from the movement's message and led some people to view the movement as dangerous.
Studying power dynamics in American culture, politics, and history is important today because it helps us understand how our country operates. By examining these dynamics, we can identify areas where change is needed and work to improve our society. For example, understanding the power dynamics that led to the War on Terror can help us avoid making similar mistakes in the future. Similarly, understanding the power dynamics that underlie the Black Lives Matter movement can help us address issues of racism and inequality in our society.
In conclusion, a critical examination of American culture, politics, and history reveals the complex power dynamics that shape the country. History after 2001 has provided us with many examples of these dynamics, including the War on Terror and the Black Lives Matter movement. While these events have had both positive and negative outcomes, they have taught us valuable lessons about power and its impact on society. It is important to study this subject today so that we can continue to learn from the past and work towards a better future for all Americans.
Work Cited:
"The Cost of War" - Watson Institute, Brown University
"The Patriot Act" - American Civil Liberties Union
"Black Lives Matter" -
"Black Lives Matter: A Movement, Not a Moment" - The New York Times
"The Power of Black Lives Matter and Why It's Different This Time" - TIME
"The 9/11 Commission Report" - National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States
"The War on Terror: How It All Began" - History.com
"Policing in America: Understanding Public Attitudes Toward the Police" - Pew Research Center
THE RUNDOWN
- The United States has a rich history, culture, and politics with complex power dynamics.
- Examples of power dynamics after 2001 include the War on Terror and the Black Lives Matter movement.
- The War on Terror involved limiting individual freedoms, unequal wealth distribution, and significant financial burden on taxpayers.
- However, it also led to improved national security and the death of Osama bin Laden.
- The Black Lives Matter movement challenged systemic racism and police brutality, leading to changes in policing and criminal justice.
- However, some protests turned violent, detracting from the movement's message.
- Studying power dynamics in American history is important to understand how the country operates, identify areas for change, and work towards a better future for all Americans.
QUESTIONS
- Why is studying power dynamics in American history and politics important today? What lessons can we learn from events such as the War on Terror and the Black Lives Matter movement, and how can we use this knowledge to improve our society?
- How have marginalized and "bad" Americans contributed to shaping the nation's identity and expanding its freedoms? What examples can you provide from history after 2001, and how have these events impacted American society and politics?
- In what ways do power dynamics shape American culture? How do these dynamics impact our understanding of history, politics, and society?
THE RUNDOWN
KEY TERMS
- 2000 Y2K
- 2000 Napster
- 2000 Rulon Gardner
- 2001 September 11 Attacks
- 2001 Afghanistan Wars
- 2001 Patriot Act
- 2003 The Iraq War
- 2004 The Minutemen
- 2004 Abu Grahib
- 2004 Hurricane Katrina
- 2005 Podcasting Invented
- 2005 The Modern Age of Gaming
- 2006 Disney Buys Pixar
- 2008 President Barack Obama's election
- 2009 Rosa's Law
- 2009 Operation Fast & Furious
- 2010s- Fashion
- 2010 Affordable Care Act
- 2012 Chicago Black Sites
- 2012 Arizona v. United States.
- 2012: Tinder
- 2013 Guantanamo Bay
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: The Fall of the Berlin Wall
Objective: To explore the significance of the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 and its impact on US history.
Instructions:
Activity: "The Rise of the Internet and the Information Age"
Objective: To explore the impact of the internet on American society and culture during the 1990s.
Instructions:
SUMMARY
ASSIGNMENTS
Forum Discussion #15
The History Channel YouTube channel is an online platform for history-related content, featuring a wide range of videos, including documentaries, series, and clips from TV shows. It covers various historical topics, including ancient civilizations, wars, technology, and famous figures. The channel also features original programming created exclusively for the platform. With over 11 million subscribers and millions of views, the History Channel YouTube channel is a popular source of historical information and entertainment for audiences worldwide. Do some outside research and answer the following questions:
Activity: The Fall of the Berlin Wall
Objective: To explore the significance of the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 and its impact on US history.
Instructions:
- Begin the activity by displaying a map of Europe and asking students to locate Germany and the city of Berlin.
- Show students images of the Berlin Wall and explain its history, including why it was built and the impact it had on the world.
- Provide a timeline of events leading up to the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, including the role of US leaders such as President Ronald Reagan.
- Divide students into small groups and assign each group a different excerpt from a speech given by a US leader during this time period. Examples include Reagan's "Tear Down This Wall" speech, George H.W. Bush's address on German reunification, and Bill Clinton's remarks on the 10th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall.
- In their groups, students should read and analyze their assigned excerpt, focusing on the language used and the message conveyed.
- Once students have had time to discuss their excerpts, bring the class back together for a discussion on the significance of the fall of the Berlin Wall and its impact on US history. Topics to consider might include the end of the Cold War, the reunification of Germany, and the changing geopolitical landscape of Europe.
- As a final activity, ask students to reflect on what they've learned and write a short essay on the following prompt: "Why was the fall of the Berlin Wall significant for US history?"
Activity: "The Rise of the Internet and the Information Age"
Objective: To explore the impact of the internet on American society and culture during the 1990s.
Instructions:
- Begin by introducing the topic of the internet and its impact on American society during the 1990s. Ask students to share their own experiences with the internet during this time period.
- Divide the class into small groups of 3-4 students.
- Instruct each group to research a different aspect of the internet's impact on American society during the 1990s. Possible topics could include:
- The rise of e-commerce and online shopping
- The impact of the internet on journalism and the news media
- The emergence of online communities and social networking
- The impact of the internet on entertainment and popular culture
- Once each group has completed their research, have them present their findings to the class. Encourage them to use visuals such as images, graphs, or videos to enhance their presentations.
- After each group has presented, lead a class discussion on the overall impact of the internet on American society during the 1990s. Use the whiteboard or chalkboard to create a visual map of the different ways the internet impacted American life during this time period.
- As a class, reflect on how the rise of the internet and the Information Age continues to shape American society today.
SUMMARY
- 2000-2013 was a crucial time in US history
- Significant events: controversial 2000 election, 9/11, War on Terror, 2008 financial crisis, and election of Barack Obama
- Advancements in technology and social media had a significant impact on American society
- Positives: achievements of Obama's presidency, rise of technology and social media
- Negatives: economic downturns, wars, and political polarization
- Studying this era is essential to understand contemporary American society and its challenges and opportunities
- Power dynamics after 2001 include the War on Terror and the Black Lives Matter movement
- The War on Terror limited individual freedoms, unequal wealth distribution, and significant financial burden on taxpayers, but also improved national security and led to the death of Osama bin Laden
- The Black Lives Matter movement challenged systemic racism and police brutality, leading to changes in policing and criminal justice, but some protests turned violent, detracting from the movement's message
- Studying power dynamics in American history is important to understand how the country operates, identify areas for change, and work towards a better future for all Americans.
ASSIGNMENTS
- Forum Discussion #15
Forum Discussion #15
The History Channel YouTube channel is an online platform for history-related content, featuring a wide range of videos, including documentaries, series, and clips from TV shows. It covers various historical topics, including ancient civilizations, wars, technology, and famous figures. The channel also features original programming created exclusively for the platform. With over 11 million subscribers and millions of views, the History Channel YouTube channel is a popular source of historical information and entertainment for audiences worldwide. Do some outside research and answer the following questions:
How can we prevent another economic downturn like the Great Recession, and what measures can be taken to mitigate the impact on individuals and businesses if such a situation arises?
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
THE RUNDOWN
The Great Recession was a severe economic downturn that lasted from December 2007 to June 2009 and was the worst financial crisis in the US since the Great Depression. The primary cause of the recession was the subprime mortgage crisis, where banks began giving subprime mortgages to people with low credit ratings. The housing bubble burst in 2007, leading to a rapid drop in home prices and foreclosures. The economic downturn had devastating effects on many people and businesses, resulting in job losses, foreclosures, and business closures. Bank bailouts, federal aid to the auto industry, and government spending programs helped avoid an even bigger crisis.
WORK CITED
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, my friends.
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
THE RUNDOWN
The Great Recession was a severe economic downturn that lasted from December 2007 to June 2009 and was the worst financial crisis in the US since the Great Depression. The primary cause of the recession was the subprime mortgage crisis, where banks began giving subprime mortgages to people with low credit ratings. The housing bubble burst in 2007, leading to a rapid drop in home prices and foreclosures. The economic downturn had devastating effects on many people and businesses, resulting in job losses, foreclosures, and business closures. Bank bailouts, federal aid to the auto industry, and government spending programs helped avoid an even bigger crisis.
WORK CITED
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, my friends.
- "Science in the Ancient World." Ancient History Encyclopedia, April 7, 2021, https://www.ancient.eu/science/.
- "Science in the Medieval Islamic World." Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, April 6, 2021, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Science_in_the_medieval_Islamic_world.
- "Euclid." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., April 16, 2019, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Euclid.
- "Hippocrates." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., March 10, 2021, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Hippocrates.
- Cartwright, Mark. "The Spanish Conquest of Mexico: Causes and Consequences." Ancient History Encyclopedia.
- Ripley, Gabe. "The Indian Removal Act: Causes, Effects, and Legacy." National Park Service.
- Kruse, Kevin M., and Stephen Tuck. "Eugenics in America." The New York Times.
LEGAL MUMBO JUMBO
- (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).
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- 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.