Select one colonial leader and explain the specific role he/she played in the coming of the American Revolution. How would that leader perceive America today? Would that leader's character and principles be widely accepted in today's political climate?
Scott David
When discussing how a Revolutionary War leader would view the modern-day United States, it might be useful to look beyond the American Revolution itself to follow the course of their careers and politics in the post-Revolutionary period.
For example, if you're going to discuss Alexander Hamilton (though, note: he would...
For example, if you're going to discuss Alexander Hamilton (though, note: he would have been too young to count as a "colonial leader" in the pre-Revolutionary War), it would be useful to keep in consideration Hamilton's work as Secretary of the Treasury, his support of American manufacturing and commerce, and his support of a centralized government. Now, think about the United States as it is today, both in terms of the power of the presidency and the federal government, but also in the US economy and Wall Street, and try to imagine what the historical Hamilton might think of this vision.
You might apply a similar methodology to Patrick Henry. In this case, you might look forward in time to the Federalist Debates (Patrick Henry was among the Anti-Federalists, opposing the adoption of the US Constitution). Now, with that in mind, how would you expect Patrick Henry (having been someone who viewed the Constitution in and of itself as an overreach of power and a threat to liberty) to view the highly centralized and bureaucratic United States of today?
Last Updated by eNotes Editorial on October 20, 2021
What are the differences between the Roman Empire and the Byzantine Empire?
What are some examples of imperialism?
How were the Indian Ocean routes and Silk routes similar? How were they different?
Why was Christopher Columbus a hero?
Why is the Elizabethan age called the Golden Age of England?
Code Of Hammurabi Laws Compared To Today's Laws
What is the history of physical education in Greece?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of freedom?
What were some impacts that the Copernican Revolution in religion, politics, science, art, music, and so on? What are some things today that were significantly affected by the Copernican Revolution?
Latest answer posted September 29, 2011 at 4:14:28 AM
What was it about the Industrial Revolution that caused the principles of classical liberalism to be modified?