Journals are intended to engage students in deeper thought concerning a specific topic and are aligned with the original source readings from The Patriot’s History Reader. The journals for this course are formal in nature and should be organized as miniature essays. They are specifically not to be written in a casual manner or relate simply the feelings of the writer. It is hoped that students will use the journals as opportunities to practice their skill at writing essays.

Each week students are required to write an answer to one of the questions posed. In some of the weeks, students may select a question to answer, while other weeks will only provide a single selection. Journals should be two pages in length, printed using Times New Roman or Times font, 12 point type, and have 1-inch margins. They are not to go over two pages. The length is intended to both help the student not do too much work, and to also hone the student’s writing skills.

• Question A: The concept of secession was not a new one in U.S. history.

  • The New England states held a convention during the War of 1812 and many in the South were advocating for a break with the north in the decade leading to the Civil War.

  • What were the reasons given for Secession and what was Lincoln’s answer to their concerns and their actions?

OR

• Question B: The U.S. was founded on the establishment and expansion of basic human rights, even if the actual practice was uneven.

  • What are the common ideas and assumptions you can glean from both the Seneca Falls Declaration and the Emancipation Proclamation?

  • Were these ideals inherent in American culture since 1776 or were they new?