Introducing America’s Ideals

Introduction: Declaration of Independence:

Thomas Jefferson: “all men are created equal with certain unalienable rights”Life LibertyThe 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 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 LibertyFreedom

“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 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 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?