Week 3 Update

This week we learned the importance of morality in government. People cannot practice republicanism or "self-governance" without first practicing virtue. We also learned a surprising insight by Thomas Paine, that most Americans were more virtuous because they were free-holders of property, and this led to an increased involvement by the colonists in public affairs. A spirit of reformation swept through the colonies in the 2 years prior to the revolution, which inspired the colonists to want to maintain their improved quality of life by becoming independent from Britain, which they viewed as wallowing in "elegance, luxury, and effeminacy."

"Only a virtuous people are capable of freedom. As nations become corrupt and vicious, they have more need of masters." -Ben Franklin

"The sum of all is, if we would most truly enjoy the gift of Heaven, let us become a virtuous people; then shall we both deserve and enjoy it." -Samuel Adams

Here is the video I tried to show in class:



Your opinion paper topic this week is: Why is a moral people required for good government?

Kudos to Dean and Leila for their well-done presentations! Next week, we will hear from Leila again on The Boston Massacre. I'm excited to see what creative visual aid you come up for this one, Leila!

Make sure to complete The Landing of the Pilgrims by Thursday for book discussion, and please come prepared with some questions and/or comments to share.

Please keep working on your award requirements. Remember, I will bring a special treat next week for the scholar who can recite from memory the most of the Declaration of Independence!

-Mrs. Hellyer