Introducing Americas Ideals Introduction Declaration of Independence Thomas

Introducing America’s Ideals

Introduction: Declaration of Independence: Thomas Jefferson: “all men are created equal with certain unalienable rights” Life Liberty The Pursuit of Happiness Thomas Jefferson envisioned a nation based on ideals These ideals have evolved since Jefferson introduced them

Founding Ideals: Equality Throughout all history people have been divided unequally Set into social classes Some people have more wealth or power than others In 1776 equality meant that all men were equal under God Slaves? ?

Equality America has made great progress to ensure equality Civil Rights, LBGT Rights recently Slavery abolished in 1865 1920: women's right to vote America is equal in opportunity not equal in condition What does this mean? Can we achieve equality of condition? How?

The Founding Ideals: Rights are powers or privileges granted to the people by law People have natural rights when they are born Life, liberty and property Government must protect these rights U. S. Constitutions Bill of Rights First 10 Amendments to the Constitution Are these rights enough? Should we have more economic and social rights like the right to free health care?

The Founding Ideals: Liberty Freedom “Give me liberty or give me death” Political, religious and civil freedoms There is no absolute liberty We must follow laws and respect others liberties as well. To what extent do we have freedom of speech? Should we be able to say anything we please even if it hurts others? Should liberty be limited to protect the greater good?

The Founding Ideals: Opportunity Jefferson said we have the right to the pursuit of happiness What does that mean? Chance for people to pursue their hopes and dreams without prohibition by the government Economic opportunity: minimum wage, job opportunities Do some have more opportunities than others? Is there a level playing field?

The Founding Ideals: Democracy: power to rule comes from the consent of the governed The definition of the “governed” has changed over time Originally only white property owning men It took women more than 100 years to be heard Today any citizen 18 or older can vote Why do so many Americans choose to not vote?

American Ideals have helped shape our country from 1776 until today Keep these ideals in mind when we analyze American history throughout this course. How do these American ideals impact you on a day to day basis? What does it mean to be an American?