Thomas Jeffersonnnn

So Jefferson was a pretty interesting guy... So um I don't really know where to go from here, so I suppose I will start at the beginning (how his writings appeal to each of the target groups).

The Ideas that Ignited the Revolution
Nationalists: Jefferson provides logical support for the preconceived notions of the nationalists. The nationalists could use his arguments to strengthen their position
Neutrals: He used the theories of Descartes, Hobbes, and Locke to formulate a theory for a government that would be workable and would not infringe upon the rights of others (separation of powers, rational against the divine right to rule, etc.). Jefferson's use of the Bible stories also strengthened his claim that God was obviously on the side of the Americans.
Enemies: Jefferson's use of the English Common Law and the beliefs of the Whig party against England itself would serve to demoralize the enemies and deter them from fighting
Allies: I'm not quite sure how this group was addressed... any ideas?

Declaration of Independence
Nationalists: By listing all the grievances against the Crown, Jefferson gives the nationalists support for their rage against the Crown. He also claims that "it is their duty, to throw off such [oppressive] government, and to provide new guards for their future security," giving them a purpose and a means of channeling their emotions.
Neutrals: By claiming that the Americans "have petitioned for redress in the most humble terms" and "that in constituting indeed or several forms of government, we had adopted one common king..." Jefferson shows that the Americans have tried to reconcile with England but that is no longer possible and that it is now their duty to God to implement change.
Enemies: The extensive list of grievances shows the wrongness of the Crown and would demoralize the enemies.
Allies: I think one grievance above all would appeal to the allies: "For cutting off our trade with all parts of the world." This line shows the allies that England is depriving them of trade with a land rich in resources. By supporting the Americans, these trade lines will open again, leading to increased wealth for the allied nations.

Well that was longer than I intended but oh well. Anything else anyone wants to add?

Midterms yayyy!

Post questions HERE!!
Don't think its going to be to late.
I don't know about you, but I don't plan on sleeping. :)

(i doubt anyone will actually post)

BF aeaeae

So begins a new chapter in our year- neoclassicism.

I never imagined Ben Franklin was so sarcastic. His writing is very advanced. I wonder how much of his audience understood what he was writing? One would not think that your average farmer could appreciate Franklin's irony, yet his audience was so widespread.

Patrick Henry, on the other hand, was much more down to earth. Perhaps this is because Henry was a farmer in Virginia, not so influenced by Northeastern Puritan ellitist ideals. Ben was clever, but Henry was inflammatory. I love when he says, "Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God!" So dramatic...

Franklin v. Henry- who do you think was more effective?

-Theresa