Parents and Students,
We had a great week in class! As the week progressed, we recognized that we were very disrespected by other countries for almost thirty years between 1790 and 1820. During this time we were challenged by party rivalry between the Federalists and the Republicans and by foreign affairs. The nasty love triangle that existed between the U.S., France, and Britain certainly paid its toll on Americans and early American leadership.
Presidents Washington, Adams, Jefferson, Madison, and Monroe all dealt with the issues in ways that made it difficult to follow Washington's principle of isolationism and neutrality. When Washington took office, he knew the United States was too weak to be involved. Interestingly enough, it was the War of 1812 and the circumstances that occurred during it that led to respect overseas. By the time Monroe takes office, the United States is able to redefine its desire to be isolated and neutral. It is during this time of prosperity and growth that people in the United States begin calling themselves Americans and establishing a sense of American Identity.
It is this identity that we will study next week. We began today by looking at how everything we know that is "American" began immediately in this period after the War of 1812. The "Star-Spangled Banner", Uncle Sam, "America" ("My country, 'tis of thee"), capitalism, and the idea of national celebrities all have their origins rooted in this period.
I have a poster project that is fun, quick and has the potential for redecoration in mind for next week. This morning when getting it all out of my head, Google Drive was uncooperative and so I wrote all my preliminary handouts on paper. I've shared the five options for next week below so you can start thinking about which aspect of Americanism you would like to research and represent for your classmates. They are my hand-written notes, so, sorry.
Growing Pains Project Options
I hope your weekend is fantastic. Don't forget, Student-Led Conferences are next week. See you all there!
Until then, yours,
Mr. Bruce
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