Hello! In addition to the readings and assignments detailed on the syllabus, I will post several web-based assignments here throughout the semester. Be sure to check this site regularly.
Online Assignment: September 4
Before class read the excerpt from Thomas Paine’s Common Sense and the Declaration of Independence. We will discuss both documents in class.
Online Assignment: September 6
Before class read the entire Constitution. Also read No. 10 of the Federalist Papers. Write a two paragraph response to the piece. Did you find Madison’s argument convincing?
Online Assignment: October 2
Read this excerpt from Frederick Douglass and write a one-page editorial in response to the article from the point-of-view of a Southern slave owner.
Online Assignment: Due October 25
Find an example of a document that represents the burgeoning “American culture” in the early 19th century. You could choose a painting, sculpture, poem, excerpt from a novel, etc.
Online Assignment: Due November 6
Read some of Jefferson’s views on race, a letter written by William Lloyd Garrison in 1830, and an endorsement of slavery from George Fitzhugh.
Online Assignment: Due November 8
Click on the picture of General Winfield Scott and read the address/ultimatum he gave to the Cherokee Nation in 1838. Can you think of any other similar ultimatums issued by American leaders in history?
Online Assignment: Due November 13
Read the following excerpt of Alexis de Tocqueville’s Democracy in America.
Online Assignment: Due November 15
Read Emerson’s “Nature” and an excerpt from Thoreau’s “Walden,” which are linked below. Pick one of the essays and write three paragraphs analyzing the work and explaining why you think the Transcendentalist movement occurred when it did.
Online Assignment: Due November 27
If you have time read Herman Melville’s excellent short story, “Bartleby, the Scrivener: A Story of Wall-street”
Online Assignment: Due November 29
Read the Confessions of Nat Turner and use it as the basis to write a two paragraph op-ed in which you argue that slavery should be abolished.
Online Assignment: Due December 4
Read the Declaration of Sentiments from the Seneca Falls Convention.
Online Assignment: Due December 6
Read James Polk’s “War Message” and write a two paragraph reaction as if you were a Mexican living in the disputed territory.