I have been reading the "Battle Cry of Freedom (chapters 7 and 8)." My illusion of honesty and the integrity of the men responsible for guiding the United States has been shattered. I had NO idea just how conniving politics was back in the 1860's. I am struggling with the desire to learn more about the corruption of our leaders and the desire to read more in this book. I am appalled by the comments of Buchanan (pg. 250-251) when as the President of the United States, he basically says that if the North does not conform to the desires of the South would after all be "justified in revolutionary resistance to the Government." It seems to me that he was choosing sides, but yet not willing to do anything about it. He waits for a new President (Lincoln) to be voted in and just kind of washes his hands of any action.
This author, James McPherson, is really helping me to understand the politics behind the Civil War. It is making a lot more since as to why the war even took place. It is a hard book for me to even read, because of my ignorance of the political history of this country. I am having my eyes opened up and it's rather painful. I just hope that my perception of 'Honest Abe' is still intact at the end of the next few chapters.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I know that Mark made a similar comment earlier, Sharon, but I couldn't help think about the deals and negotiations that took place to pass the health care bill while I read chapters 7 & 8. I, agree with you. So many people elected to represent the people of the states and they took their backs on them for the issues or party and personal advancement. It is discouraging.
ReplyDeleteLarry,
ReplyDeleteI find it scary to think that we (Americans) really don't seem to have a say in the politic of this country. It is very discuouraging! Thanks for your comments.
I couldn't agree more, Sharon. It seems very evident as we look at the whole health care issues. I find it very discouraging to see how many politicians, whether it is now, or during the time of the Civil War are guided in their decisions by money or party affiliation. I couldn't help getting mad at Stephen Douglas as I read in BCOF. How he championed the idea of Popular Sovereignty, in order to get support for the transcontinental railroad going through Illinois, so he could line his own pockets. Then when Popular Sovereignty was accepted he tried to get the President to shoot it down. (What a hypocrite.)
ReplyDeleteLarry,
ReplyDeleteI guess I've had my head in the sand when it comes to politics. Between this book, BCOF, and the things that are happening today, my eyes are pealing like an onion. I am not really enjoying what I'm learning. But on the other hand, it's best to know what's happening.
Sharon.
I was disappointed with myself for not knowing much about Millard Filmore. Why did we name a city and a county after him? What did he do to deserve that? From what I have learned of him so far I am disgusted and far from impressed.
ReplyDeleteFillmore was Utah's first territorial capital and was named for U.S. President Millard Fillmore in recognition of his courage in appointing Brigham Young Utah's first territorial governor. On 4 October 1851 the Utah territorial legislature passed a joint resolution creating Millard County from a portion of Iron County known as "Pahvant Valley"; they named its county seat Fillmore City. This resolution also relocated the territorial capital to the new community and appropriated $20,000 toward that effort. On 21 October two companies set out from Salt Lake City for the Pahvant Valley. Brigham Young headed a delegation of lawmakers making the site selection of the territorial capital. The other company, under the direction of Anson Call, was chosen to make a settlement. On 28 October territorial lawmakers selected a spot located on the hunting grounds of the Pahvant Indians, 150 miles south of Salt Lake City.
ReplyDelete(http://www.media.utah.edu/UHE/f/FILLMORE.html) IT IS JUST ANOTHER EXAMPLE OF POLITICAL "FAVORS." Even Brigham did it.
Tui,
ReplyDeleteI understand your feelings. I think it's terrible to honor people who are corrupt, but as a nation we seem to do this all of the time i.e. sports figures, entertainment people, etc...