American Heritage Test 1

What is Reformed Protestant Christianity?

- A branch of Protestantism that emerged in the 16th century as a response to the theological and ecclesiastical practices of the Roman Catholic Church - Belief in the authority of the Bible, the sovereignty of God, and the doctrine of salvation by grace through faith - Includes the five points of Calvinism: total depravity, unconditional election, limited atonement, irresistible grace, and perseverance of the saints - Started by John Calvin and expanded through Martin Bucer, William Farel, and Heinrich Bullinger

What did the Dred Scott Decision declare? Speak both about the decision regarding the suit of Dred Scott specifically and the evaluation of the Missouri Compromise (restriction of slavery from free-soil areas of the U.S.)

- African Americans, whether free or enslaved, could not be American citizens and therefore could not sue in federal court - Dred Scott was a slave who had been taken by his owner from Missouri, a slave state, to live in Illinois, a free state, and later to the Wisconsin Territory, where slavery was prohibited under the Missouri Compromise of 1820 - African Americans had no rights that white people were bound to respect, and that the Missouri Compromise was unconstitutional because it deprived slave owners of their property without due process of law

When the "Declaration" claims that "all men are created equal," what do you think this means?

- All human beings are born with inherent and equal rights, including the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness - No one is naturally superior to anyone else and that all individuals should be treated with respect and dignity - Governments should be established to protect these rights and that any violation of these rights by a government is a justification for rebellion or revolution

According to Elizabeth Cady Stanton, what is the relationship between equality of nature and equality of rights?

- All human beings are created equal, and this equality is a natural right - Men and women have the same natural rights, and these rights should be protected by law. - Gender differences are natural and should not be a basis for discrimination in the eyes of the law

What is Elizabeth Cady Stanton's argument for the equality of women? What must happen before we make any kind of final determination about women's equality in all respects? How does this shed light on her view of the relationship between nature and nurture?

- All individuals should be judged on their own merits and not on the basis of gender - Women are capable of achieving the same things as men and should have the same opportunities to do so - Before making any kind of final determination about women's equality in all respects, society must first provide women with equal educational and professional opportunities - Emphasized nurture over nature; women's perceived weaknesses and limitations are the result of their socialization and lack of opportunities, rather than any inherent qualities

For Dickinson in the Letters of Fabius, what role does Greece serve in his argument on p. 188? Why does he argue on p. 189 that we need a strong government?

- American colonies should be wary of democratic excess and factionalism. He sees the example of Greece as a cautionary tale of how democratic government can lead to instability and ultimately tyranny. - Only a strong government can provide the stability and security necessary for the preservation of individual liberties

Why, according to Major Sullivan Ballou, is he willing to put himself in mortal peril? Why is he fighting?

- Believed in the cause of the Union and was fighting for the preservation of the nation - The conflict is a "holy and just" one, and that he is proud to be part of the effort to save the Union from those who would destroy it.

1. With respect to Nathaniel Hawthorne's short story, name four things that get burned in the great bonfire. For three of them, tell me why they were considered worthy of being burned? Choose one of these burned things and tell me what suggestions Hawthorne gives in the story that burning it is problematic?

- Books, Manuscripts, Scientific instruments, Machines - Books and manuscripts are considered worthy of being burned because they represent knowledge that threatens the power of the religious authorities - Scientific instruments and machines are considered worthy of being burned because they represent the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake, which is seen as a form of vanity and a threat to the natural order - Burning books is problematic because it represents a suppression of knowledge and a rejection of progress

According to James Henry Hammond in his "King Cotton" speech, how does cotton agriculture benefit the south?

- Cotton agriculture is the foundation of the Southern economy and the source of its wealth and prosperity - Production of cotton gives the South a major advantage in international trade and diplomacy, as well as providing jobs for many people - Slavery is necessary for cotton production and that without it, the Southern economy and way of life would be ruined - Slavery is a positive good, not only for the South but for the enslaved people themselves, who he believes are better off in the care of benevolent masters than they would be on their own

What was John Winthrop's vision for Puritan Massachusetts? (as he unfolds this in the "Model of Christian Charity").

- Create a "city upon a hill" that would serve as an example of a godly community to the world; a society that was based on a covenant with God, where the people would live according to his laws and serve as an example of a Christian society - Emphasized the importance of unity and mutual care among the members of the community, stating that "we must be knit together in this work as one man." - Success of the Puritan experiment depended on the proper balance of power between the different branches of government, with a strong emphasis on the role of the church in governing society.

According to the "Mayflower Compact," what is the purpose of the establishment of the Plymouth Colony?

- Created by the Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower in 1620, before landing at Plymouth, Massachusetts - Established a "civil Body Politick" for the "glory of God" and the "advancement of the Christian faith." - The signers of the Compact pledged to "combine ourselves together into a civil Body Politick, for our better Ordering and Preservation, and Furtherance of the Ends aforesaid."

What does Frederick Douglass think of (white) American patriotic expressions on the Fourth of July?

- Declaration of Independence and Constitution did not fulfill their promise of liberty and justice for all people, and that the Fourth of July celebration was hypocritical in light of continued slavery and oppression - True patriotism involved working toward the ideal of a just and equal society, rather than simply celebrating the country's accomplishments while ignoring its ongoing failures

Offer an interpretation of the fact that Franklin admires Whitefield, but Franklin himself is immune to Whitefield's oratory (i.e., Franklin himself remains contentedly unconverted). What does this suggest about Franklin? (Don't say he's just a bad dude, among the reprobate, going to hell, etc.)

- Deeply committed to reason and critical thinking; despite being moved by his persuasive rhetoric and recognizing the power of his messages, Franklin may have ultimately found that his own beliefs were incompatible - Approached religion and spirituality in a more intellectual and analytical way; he may have valued reason and evidence over emotional appeals and religious dogma, and as a result, he may have found it difficult to fully embrace Whitefield's message

Based on Lincoln's statements in the Lincoln-Douglas debates, how would you describe the Republican attitude toward emancipation?

- Did not explicitly call for immediate emancipation of enslaved people. - Opposed the expansion of slavery into new territories and argued that slavery was morally wrong - Nation could not continue to exist as half-slave and half-free, and that slavery should be put on a path to "ultimate extinction." - Not until the Civil War that Lincoln and the Republican Party began to pursue emancipation more aggressively

What does Thomas Harton Benton believe to be the most momentous human event in history since man's dispersion over the face of the earth? Why?

- Discovery of America by Columbus brought together the two hemispheres of the world, created new opportunities for trade and commerce, and expanded the knowledge and understanding of the natural world

Why did Jamestown nearly perish? What problems did they face?

- Disease, starvation, conflicts with the Native Americans, and poor leadership - A harsh environment with limited resources - Lacked skills in farming and survival - Leadership was initially poor, with many of the leaders being more interested in finding gold and riches than in establishing a functioning colony

In the Lincoln-Douglas Debates, what does Douglas accuse Lincoln of supporting? How does Lincoln respond?

- Douglas accused Lincoln of supporting racial equality and black suffrage, which he believed would lead to social and political chaos. - Lincoln clarified that he did not advocate for racial equality, but rather the principle that all men are created equal and entitled to certain natural rights, including the right to enjoy the fruits of their own labor. He argued that slavery was a violation of this principle and needed to be contained and eventually eliminated, but he did not advocate for immediate abolition or full social and political equality for African Americans.

What features would have made George Whitefield's sermon extremely compelling? (consider especially the latter part of the sermon)

- Dynamic delivery and powerful voice - Vivid and evocative language to describe the joys of the kingdom of God and the horrors of damnation - Extensive quoting from the Bible and referencing the teachings of respected Christian figures - Urgency of repentance and conversion, warning that death could come at any moment and that those who do not accept Christ will face eternal punishment - Hope and comfort to his listeners, assuring them that they can be saved if they only turn to Christ and follow his teachings

Comment intelligently on how Winthrop's "Model of Christian Charity" troubles the dear notion of rugged individualism as central to the American ethos.

- Emphasizes the importance of working together for the common good; individual success and personal wealth should not be the primary goals of human life - Individuals are inherently interconnected and that their well-being is intertwined with the well-being of the community

What is the fundamental textual basis and inspiration from the Western Tradition that is behind the "Laws of Virginia"?

- English legal codes such as the Magna Carta, the Petition of Right, and the English Bill of Rights - Established principles such as the rule of law, the protection of individual rights, and limitations on the power of the monarch or government

How does the Northwest Ordinance regulate (1.) relations with the Indians and (2.) slavery?

- Established a government for the Northwest Territory, which encompassed land north of the Ohio River and east of the Mississippi River. - Relations with Indians: - Recognized Native American ownership of land in the territory and required that such ownership be extinguished through treaties negotiated with the tribes. The ordinance also prohibited the purchase of Indian land by private individuals, and only authorized the federal government to acquire land from Native American tribes through treaty negotiations. The ordinance stated that Native Americans should be treated justly and fairly, and that their property, rights, and liberty should be protected. - Slavery: The Northwest Ordinance prohibited slavery in the territory, stating that "there shall be neither slavery nor involuntary servitude in the said territory, otherwise than in the punishment of crimes." This provision made the Northwest Territory the first region in the United States to explicitly ban slavery.

What is "evangelical" Christianity and what distinguishes it from mainline Puritanism/Calvinism?

- Evangelical: Religious movement that emphasizes the importance of a personal relationship with God, a commitment to spreading the gospel, and the authority of the Bible - Mainline Puritanism/Calvinism: Traditional forms of Protestant Christianity that emerged in the 16th and 17th centuries - Evangelicals: Personal conversion experiences vs. Puritans/Calvinists: Living a virtuous life and sacraments - Evangelicals: Evangelism vs. Puritans/Calvinists: Strong Christian community and doing good works - Evangelicals: The authority of the Bible vs. Puritans/Calvinists: Tradition and church authority - Evangelicals: Emotional or ecstatic experiences in worship vs. Puritans/Calvinists: Intellectual and theological pursuits

According to Hammond, what is a "mud-sill" of society and why is it necessary? What is the southern "mud-sill"?

- Every society has a "mud-sill," the lowest class that is necessary to support and maintain society's more elevated classes - The mud-sill is necessary to ensure that the superior classes do not have to engage in menial labor, which would demean and degrade them, such as the African slaves who perform the labor necessary to maintain the plantation system

Who did Alexander Hamilton believe were the kinds of people most threatening to liberty? (see "Federalist 1," pg. 167).

- Factions working in their own interest: "those who are united and actuated by some common impulse of passion, or of interest, adverse to the rights of other citizens or to the permanent and aggregate interests of the community."

How does Sir Edmund Burke (Selections) understand liberty? How is it different than the view of liberty in France? Why did Burke favor the American "revolutionaries" and reject the French?

- France was creating a system with no practical boundaries based on complete and total egalitarianism, leading toward mob rule - American revolution is similar to the drafting of the Magna Carta, where they instill checks and balances so their liberty does not upend tradition or go to far

What are Alexis de Tocqueville's view of censorship and freedom of the press in a highly democratic society?

- Freedom of the press was essential to maintaining a democratic society, as it allowed for the free exchange of ideas and opinions - Censorship and restrictions on the press were inherently anti-democratic, as they limited the ability of citizens to participate fully in the democratic process - The press had a responsibility to exercise self-restraint and to avoid sensationalism and irresponsible reporting

What are Franklin's "metaphysical" beliefs as laid out in the Autobiography (i.e., beliefs about stuff you can't see, such as God, the soul, etc.)?

- God and the divine providence, which he describes as the "kind interpositions of [God's] providence in our favor." - Skeptical of organized religion and believed that personal virtue was more important than following any particular creed or doctrine - Immortality of the soul and the possibility of an afterlife, but also acknowledged the possibility that the soul may simply cease to exist after death - Rejected predestination and instead believed in free will and the power of individuals to shape their own destinies

What does Abraham Lincoln think about slavery up to his First Inaugural Address (1861)? In your view, do his views on slavery change in the course of the war, or remain the same?

- He had no intention of interfering with slavery where it already existed/no constitutional authority to interfere with slavery in the states where it was already established - The federal government had the right and duty to prevent the spread of slavery to new territories - In 1862, he signed the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared that all slaves in Confederate-held territory were to be freed, demonstrating his growing commitment to ending slavery altogether - In 1865, Lincoln gave a speech in which he expressed support for granting voting rights to some African American men

According to Alexis de Tocqueville, what effects does a culture of egalitarianism have on religion?

- In a highly democratic society, people tend to think of themselves as equal, and this leads to a general leveling of society which extends to religion, where people are less likely to defer to the authority of religious institutions and more likely to form their own opinions about religious matters - Religion tends to become more individualistic and subjective in democratic societies, with people seeking personal fulfillment rather than submitting to traditional religious doctrines

In his "Advice to a Young Tradesman," Franklin recommends four virtues. What are these and briefly describe them.

- Industry: Importance of hard work; "time is money" and encourages the young tradesman to be diligent in his work and use his time wisely - Frugality: Value of thrift and saving; advises the young tradesman to avoid unnecessary expenses and invest his earnings wisely - Sincerity: Honesty and transparency in all dealings; "honesty is the best policy" and warns against the pitfalls of deceit and hypocrisy - Justice: Fair and just in his dealings with others; treat them with respect and avoid any unfair advantage or exploitation

According to John Winthrop (in "Model of Christian Charity") why is there inequality?

- Inequality is part of God's plan and serves a purpose in the world; God has created some people to be rich and powerful and others to be poor and dependent, and that this is necessary for the proper functioning of society - Those blessed with wealth and power have a responsibility to use their resources for the common good, and share their blessings with the less fortunate - The less fortunate have a responsibility to be content with their station in life and to obey those in authority over them

Lincoln's First Inaugural Address was viewed, at the time and subsequently, as both an olive branch extended toward the South and a gauntlet thrown down before the South. How can this speech be read in either way? Give explicit examples.

- Intended to calm fears and tensions, to reassure the South that the North had no intention of interfering with slavery where it existed, and to affirm the national unity that Lincoln believed was crucial to the survival of the United States. - Emphasized that he had no intention of interfering with slavery where it existed, stating, "I have no purpose, directly or indirectly, to interfere with the institution of slavery in the States where it exists. I believe I have no lawful right to do so, and I have no inclination to do so." - Willing to compromise to preserve the Union, saying, "I am loath to close. We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection. The mystic chords of memory, stretching from every battlefield and patriot grave to every living heart and hearthstone all over this broad land, will yet swell the chorus of the Union when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature." - Secession was illegal and unconstitutional, stating, "I hold that in contemplation of universal law and of the Constitution the Union of these States is perpetual." - No state had the right to secede, saying, "I therefore consider that in view of the Constitution and the laws the Union is unbroken, and to the extent of my ability, I shall take care, as the Constitution itself expressly enjoins upon me, that the laws of the Union be faithfully executed in all the States."

How does George Fitzhugh critique northern society?

- It is based on an unjust and unsustainable system of wage labor that creates a form of slavery that is worse than the system of African slavery in the South - The workers in the North have no real freedom or independence, as they are dependent on their employers for their livelihoods and have no control over their own lives - Northern society is marked by a lack of social cohesion and harmony because of the emphasis on individualism and competition

What is John Louis O'Sullivan's attitude toward the past? What is his attitude toward progress? How does religious imagery play an important role in O'Sullivan's argument?

- It was necessary for the present and the future to exist; the present is the result of the past and the future is the result of the present - History as a progression, where every new development is an improvement upon the past - Positive attitude toward progress - Progress is the natural result of human efforts to improve their conditions driven by the human desire to achieve more, to do better, and to live better lives - Expansion of the United States is a divine mission, a beacon of freedom and democracy, a nation that is destined to bring these values to the rest of the world. In this way, O'Sullivan uses religious imagery to give his argument a sense of moral purpose and authority.

Take a look at p. 269.13-19 and reflect on the passage's significance to our discussion of the Second Great Awakening. What are the "jerks"? Why are they important to the democratization of American Christianity?

- Jerks are a physical manifestation of religious enthusiasm that was common during the Second Great Awakening - During revival meetings, individuals would experience sudden and uncontrollable spasms, jerks, and convulsions - This phenomenon was seen as evidence of the Holy Spirit's presence and was often used to convert skeptics and non-believers - They demonstrated that religious experience was not confined to the intellectual and social elite, breaking down traditional hierarchies and empower individuals to take a more active role in their religious lives

In the Lincoln-Douglas Debates, what does Lincoln prefer to talk about? What does Douglas prefer to talk about? Why do these men differ in their points of emphasis?

- Lincoln: Slavery and its moral implications - Douglas: Popular sovereignty - Lincoln sought to unite the Republican Party around the issue of slavery - Douglas sought to maintain his support among both northern and southern Democrats by avoiding taking a strong stance on the issue

How does the "Declaration of Independence" function like a logical syllogism? What are its parts and how do they work together?

- Major premise: A people have the right to dissolve political bonds with another people and to establish a new government - Minor premise: The British people have subjected the American people to tyranny - Conclusion: Therefore, the American people have the right to dissolve their political ties with Britain and to establish a new government - The document presents these premises as self-evident truths and argues that they are logically related to one another. The major premise draws upon Enlightenment ideas of natural rights, while the minor premise cites specific grievances against the British government. Together, these premises lead to the conclusion that the American colonies have the right to seek independence from Britain.

In his "Speech to the General Court," Winthrop mentions two kinds of freedom. Name these and briefly distinguish them.

- Natural Freedom: Freedom to do what one wants, regardless of the consequences or the impact on others. It is a state of nature where everyone is free to pursue their own self-interest. - Moral Freedom: Freedom to do what is right and just, even if it means sacrificing one's own desires or interests; living in accordance with law and God - Winthrop argues that natural freedom is a dangerous concept because it can lead to selfishness and individualism, whereas moral freedom is a higher form of freedom because it recognizes the importance of community and the need to live in accordance with moral principles. He suggests that the goal of government should be to promote moral freedom and to create a society where people are able to live virtuous and fulfilling lives.

The first part of the "Declaration" contains an account of human nature and, consequently, a vision of what proper government looks like. Describe these briefly.

- Natural Rights: All people are created equal and endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness - Purpose of Government: The purpose of government is to secure these rights and that governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed - Right to Revolution: When a government fails to secure these rights, it is the right and duty of the people to alter or abolish it and to institute new government that will better secure their rights

On what grounds does Benjamin Franklin admire George Whitefield?

- Preaching ability and connecting with audiences - Able to draw large crowds and hold their attention - Philanthropic efforts, such as his fundraising for an orphanage in Georgia

What are Washington's concerns in the Farewell Address? Why does he reject the "spirit of party"? Review 217.2, 217.38-218.4. What is Washington's view of liberty (221)?

- Rejected the "spirit of party" because he believed it could lead to the division and weakening of the country - Against forming permanent alliances with foreign nations, arguing that such alliances could lead to entanglements that would draw the nation into conflicts that were not in its best interest - Washington's view of liberty was grounded in the principles of natural rights and the idea that the government exists to secure these rights - Liberty could only be preserved through a strong and virtuous government that was accountable to the people. He warned against the dangers of excessive democracy, which he believed could lead to tyranny and anarchy

Give a brief description of the Second Great Awakening. What is its relationship to the era of Jacksonian Democracy? (Democratization, anti-elitism, anti-clericalism, distrust of established ecclesiastical authorities and traditions...)

- Religious revival movement in the United States that began in the late 18th century and lasted until the mid-19th century - It was marked by a series of emotional religious revivals that swept across the country, led by traveling preachers who attracted large crowds with their fiery sermons - The movement emphasized individual piety, personal conversion experiences, and a more democratic approach to religion - Era of Jacksonian Democracy was marked by a push for greater democratization and anti-elitism in politics, as well as a distrust of established authorities and traditions - The movement was marked by anti-clericalism and a push for greater religious freedom and autonomy, which mirrored the broader democratic impulses of the era

In the Lincoln-Douglas debates, Douglas advocates Popular Sovereignty. What is Popular Sovereignty, and how does Lincoln critique it?

- Settlers of a territory should decide for themselves whether to permit slavery or not, rather than Congress making the decision for them - Democratic decision-making and avoid the controversy of Congress making the decision - It was impossible for the people of a territory to make an unbiased decision on slavery, as they would be subject to the influence of powerful pro-slavery or anti-slavery interests - It was the role of Congress, as the representative of the entire country, to make decisions on issues as important as slavery - Constitution gave Congress the power to make decisions on slavery in new territories, and that Popular Sovereignty would undermine this power

Describe how George Fitzhugh's Sociology for the South represents a transition in the discourse justifying African slavery. What ancient discourse is Fitzhugh drawing on?

- Shifts from religious to scientific and economic arguments - Uses paternalism to defend slavery, arguing that the institution of slavery is a necessary and natural system that promotes the well-being of both slaves and masters - African slaves are better off under slavery than they would be if they were free, as they are provided with food, shelter, and protection by their masters - Slavery is a form of socialism, in which the wealthy take care of the less fortunate, and that this is a more humane and just system than the free-market capitalism of the North - African slaves are inferior to whites in terms of intellect and morality, and that they require the guidance and supervision of their masters in order to live productive and fulfilling lives

How is Franklin's notion of virtues like Aristotle's and unlike Aristotle's? (You can draw on his "Advice to a Young Tradesman" and/or his Autobiography)

- Similar: they are habits that are developed through practice and repetition and are necessary for leading a virtuous life - Different: - Franklin's list of virtues is more focused on practical matters related to business and social life, while Aristotle's list is more comprehensive and includes virtues related to intellectual pursuits and personal character - Franklin's approach to virtues is more pragmatic and results-oriented, while Aristotle's is more focused on cultivating virtues for their own sake and for the sake of achieving eudaimonia (happiness or flourishing) - Franklin's virtues are more oriented towards individual success and personal improvement, while Aristotle's are more oriented towards living a life in accordance with moral and ethical principles that benefit the community as a whole.

Hammond claims that "[Africans] are elevated from that condition in which God first made them, by being made our slaves. None of that race on the whole face of the globe can be compared with the slaves of the South. They are happy, content, un-aspiring, and utterly incapable, from intellectual weakness, ever to give us any trouble by their aspirations." Comment on this quotation. What discourses or theories is Hammond drawing on?

- Slavery was a "positive good" that elevated Africans from their "primitive" state and provided them with a superior way of life -Black race is inherently inferior to the white race -Gives them a purpose in life, a chance to work, and be taken care of by benevolent slave owners -Intellectual inferiority of Africans

Give an example of a religious transformative experience as told by Jonathan Edwards' Faithful Narrative of the Surprising Work of God. What triggers a spiritual crisis in the persons mentioned and how is it resolved?

- Story: - Little girl sits in closet - Ponders about how she will go to Hell, triggering a crisis - As she prays, she experiences an emotional sense of peace (the salvation of God)

Based on the letters published under the title "The Meaning of the Revolution" in the Reader, how did "the American mind" understand the armed struggle for independence from Great Britain? (Answers should be based both upon the anonymous broadside "America" and Jefferson's letter to Henry Lee).

- The American mind understood the armed struggle for independence as a means of securing their rights as freeborn Englishmen, rather than as a revolutionary overthrow of the existing social order - The broadside "America" described the colonists as being driven to take up arms by the "tyranny" of the British government and the threat it posed to their "sacred rights and liberties." - Jefferson's letter to Henry Lee suggested that the revolution was a necessary response to the unjust exercise of power by the British government, which had repeatedly violated the colonists' rights as Englishmen - Both the broadside and Jefferson's letter emphasized the importance of preserving the principles of limited government, individual rights, and popular sovereignty that had animated the American Revolution

How does Lorenzo Dow understand the significance of the Declaration of Independence? What are Dow's expectations for the future? (272)

- The Declaration of Independence is a "moral document," a "great and sublime declaration" that asserted the natural equality of all men before God - America was a special nation with a divine mission to spread the gospel and to be an example of Christian virtue to the world - He also expressed his hope for the future, stating that "the time is coming when the knowledge of the Lord shall cover the earth as the waters cover the sea."

What is Chief Justice Roger Taney's view of the intentions of the Framers of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States?

- The Framers of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution did not intend for African Americans, whether free or slave, to be regarded as citizens of the United States - Black people were considered "an inferior order," and that they were "not intended to be included" in the phrase "all men are created equal." - The Framers of the Constitution did not intend to prohibit slavery in the territories, specifically, the Missouri Compromise of 1820, which prohibited slavery north of the 36°30′ parallel in the Louisiana Purchase territory

What are Puritans? What is the difference between "Separating" and "Non-Separating" Puritans?

- The Puritans were English Protestants who sought to purify the Church of England from remnants of Roman Catholic practices and beliefs. They believed in the authority of the Bible, the doctrine of predestination, and the importance of individual piety and a personal relationship with God. - Separating Puritans believed that the Church of England was irredeemably corrupt and that they needed to separate from it entirely to form their own congregations - Non-Separating Puritans believed that they could remain within the Church of England and reform it from within

How does Frederick Douglass evaluate the role of the Christian Church amidst the ongoing moral blight of African slavery in America?

- The church was complicit in the moral depravity of slavery by failing to speak out against it and even actively promoting it - Many churches in the South allowed slaveholders to become members and even allowed them to preach pro-slavery messages to their congregations - The northern churches were silent on the issue - The church's teachings on the dignity and worth of all human beings are fundamentally incompatible with the practice of slavery

According to Hammond, do the northerners have a "mud-sill"?

- The class of wage-earners who are dependent on their employers

In Andrew Jackson's "First Annual Address," why is he so concerned about the way that presidents are elected? What is the problem of the current arrangement in his view? What is his view of the role of the office of the President?

- The current arrangement of the electoral system was corrupt and undemocratic because the people's will was being subverted by a group of elites who had too much influence over the outcome of elections through the electoral college - The President should be elected by a direct vote of the people, rather than by an intermediary body such as the electoral college - The President is a representative of the people, accountable to the people, and act in their best interests at all times

In connection to "The Salem Covenant": Where does the idea of "covenant" come from? What does this idea of "covenant," considering its origin, tell us about the mentality and mission of the Puritans in Salem?

- The idea of "covenant" comes from the Bible, specifically from the Old Testament, where it refers to the solemn agreement between God and the Israelites - The Puritans in Salem believed that they were a chosen people of God who had entered into a covenant with Him, similar to the Israelites of the Old Testament - This idea of covenant meant that the Puritans saw themselves as a separate and distinct community that was bound together by their shared religious beliefs and commitments - The covenant also created a sense of obligation among the Puritans to live up to their religious ideals and to support and care for one another as members of a spiritual community - In Salem, the covenant served as a foundation for the town's religious and social life, shaping the Puritans' views on morality, government, and community

Does the fact that humans apparently have a "right to the pursuit of happiness" mean that humans are entitled to do whatever they like and if a government stops them that the government may be dissolved?

- The idea of natural rights, including the right to the pursuit of happiness, was not meant to justify any and all actions - These rights are to be balanced with the duty to respect the rights of others and the common good. - Therefore, the government has the responsibility to protect the natural rights of its citizens, but it may also impose reasonable limits on individual behavior when necessary to ensure public safety and the well-being of society as a whole

According to William Penn, which matters more: the arrangement of government or the morals of the citizens? Why?

- The morals of the citizens matter more than the arrangement of government - Good government is important, but it could only be sustained if the people were virtuous and lived according to the principles of justice, charity, and mutual respect - Purpose of government is to promote the common good and to protect the rights and freedoms of the people, but this could only be achieved if the people themselves were virtuous and committed to the common good - Good government required a balance of power and a system of checks and balances to prevent any one group from dominating the others - "If men are good, government cannot be bad."

According to Alexander Stephens, what is the most important foundation of the new Confederacy with its modified constitution? What principal error does the new Confederate constitution explicitly correct?

- The new Confederacy was founded on the principle of slavery as the "cornerstone" of its foundation, because the new constitution corrected the principal error of the original US Constitution, which failed to recognize the natural and fundamental inequality between white and black races - The Confederacy's constitution had remedied this error by explicitly recognizing slavery as a positive good and elevating it to a central and protected position in the new government

What is the only sufficient condition for salvation (for being "OK" in an ultimate, Christian sense) as understood by Whitefield? You can express this in a number of different ways, but you must use at least one word that starts with a "c."

- The only sufficient condition for salvation is "conversion": A personal, spiritual transformation in which a person turns away from sin and towards God through faith in Jesus Christ. - Conversion is not something that could be achieved through one's own efforts, but was a gift from God, given to those who repent and believe in the Gospel message; characterized by a deep sense of conviction for sin, followed by a sense of assurance and peace that came from knowing that one's sins had been forgiven through Christ - Not just a one-time event, but an ongoing process of growth and sanctification, as the believer was conformed more and more to the image of Christ

What is John Taylor's argument for agrarianism?

- The ownership of land is the foundation of liberty and that agrarian societies are the only ones capable of maintaining a truly republican government - The ownership of land was the only means by which people could be truly independent, and that the accumulation of wealth and property by a small group of people would inevitably lead to tyranny and the erosion of individual liberty - The growth of cities and industry as a threat to the agrarian way of life and the republican values that it represented - Promote policies that would encourage the growth of agriculture and rural communities, such as land reform, low taxes, and government support for farmers

What does the "Declaration" say the "people" can do to governments that fail to fulfill their purpose? Which early-modern political philosopher is influential here?

- The people have the right to alter or abolish a government that fails to fulfill its purpose, and to institute a new government in its place - Influenced by the political philosophy of John Locke, who argued that government is a social contract between rulers and the ruled, and that the people have the right to overthrow a government that violates their natural rights

Why are the efforts of the reforming "burners" in vain? Think about when the Devil-figure shows up at the end of the story. What is the lesson of this story? What is the one thing about humans that does not change?

- The reforming "burners" are in vain because they burn only the outward manifestations of people's faults and not the root causes - Even though people might think they are on the right path to heaven, they are actually on the wrong path, having been seduced by the allure of progress and modernity - Burning something is problematic because it represents an attempt to destroy something without understanding its true nature or worth

In the "Fast Day Proclamations" issued by continental congresses in 1776 and 1779, what is the main reason cited for the hardships endured by the United States during the ongoing war with Great Britain?

- The sins of the American people, specifically their failure to adhere to the teachings of Christianity and their lack of moral discipline - The war was a punishment from God for these sins, and that the only way to end the suffering was to repent and reform their ways

What is Frederick Douglas' understanding of the legacy of the Founding Fathers?

- They were revolutionary thinkers who helped to create a new form of government that was unprecedented in human history - Their vision of liberty and equality was limited in important ways - They were products of their time, and that they may not have been able to fully envision a society without slavery

What does George Whitefield understand the Scripture stating that the "Kingdom of God is not meat and drink" to mean?

- True religion is not a matter of outward forms and rituals, but rather an inward transformation of the heart; outward forms of religion, such as attending church or performing good works, are important, but only as expressions of the inward change that had taken place in the believer's heart through faith in Christ.

What is the role of "emotion" or "feeling" in the religious transformations narrated by Jonathan Edwards?

- True religious experience is not just a matter of intellectual assent to a set of doctrines, but also involved a deep emotional response to the truths of the Christian faith - Holy Spirit worked in the hearts of believers to produce strong emotions such as joy, love, and gratitude, which in turn deepened their faith and strengthened their commitment to the church - These emotional experiences were evidence of the work of God in the lives of believers, and he encouraged his listeners to seek them out as a sign of their spiritual health - Don't relying too heavily on emotional experiences, and emphasized the importance of a solid grounding in Scripture and Christian doctrine as the basis for true faith

You should be able to contrast the motives and experiences and principles of Virginia and New England. Which do you think has shaped America more? Justify your answer in writing.

- Virginia: Primarily economic venture; struggled with disease, starvation, and conflict with the Native Americans, but found success in tobacco production - New England: Primarily for religious reasons; had a strong emphasis on education, community, and moral discipline, shaping the religious and political values of American society - New England has had a greater impact on shaping America's values and ideals. The Puritan emphasis on individual responsibility, community, and education shaped the American sense of identity and established religious freedom, democracy, and individual liberty. They also played a key role in the American Revolution and the establishment of the United States as a nation, providing leaders and ideas that helped to shape the country's political and social institutions.

What is the response of the other states to the Kentucky and Virginia Resolutions? Why? What is the view of the Counter-Resolutions, particularly of Massachusetts, about the relationship of liberty and government?

- With various counter-resolutions that rejected the idea of nullification and emphasized the supremacy of the federal government - Constitution was a compact among the states and that the federal government was the final arbiter of any disputes that might arise between the states and the federal government - States had no right to nullify federal laws and that any attempt to do so would be an act of rebellion - Massachusetts emphasized the importance of a strong federal government in protecting individual liberties. The resolution stated that the federal government was necessary to secure the blessings of liberty and that any attempt by the states to nullify federal laws would undermine the very foundation of the Constitution and threaten the stability of the nation.

Does Alexis de Tocqueville see a potential threat to liberty in America resulting from democracy's overall emphasis on equality? Why are liberty and equality potentially opposed to each other?

- Yes, democracy's emphasis on equality can lead to a tendency towards conformity and uniformity that can threaten individual liberty - Democracy "tends to raise men to a level with each other" and that this can lead to a "tyranny of the majority" in which the majority imposes its will on the minority, even if that means limiting individual liberty - Liberty allows individuals to pursue their own interests and goals, which can lead to inequality in outcomes, whereas equality seeks to ensure that everyone has the same opportunities and resources, which can require limiting individual liberty in order to achieve greater overall equality

What is the Declaration of the Rights of Man of the Citizen's definition of liberty?

- "Liberty consists of the power to do anything that does not harm others; accordingly, the exercise of the natural rights of every man has no limits other than those that assure to the other members of society the enjoyment of the same rights. These limits can only be determined by law."

In July of 1775, the Second Continental Congress published its "Causes and Necessities for Taking Up Arms." What is the point of this document, and how is it different from the "Declaration of Independence," issued one year later?

Causes and Necessities for Taking Up Arms - Justifies the American colonies' decision to take up arms against Great Britain. - Colonists were acting in self-defense, as the British government had failed to protect their rights and had engaged in a series of oppressive actions against them Declaration of Independence - A formal declaration of the colonies' independence from Great Britain, and a statement of the principles that would guide the new nation - Included a broader statement of the ideals and values that underpinned the American Revolution, including the principles of liberty, equality, and self-government