1. Introducing America’s Ideals

2. Introduction: Declaration of Independence:
Thomas Jefferson: “all men are created equal with certain unalienable rights”
Life
Liberty
The Pursuit of Happiness
Thomas Jefferson envisioned a nation based on ideals
These ideals have evolved since Jefferson introduced them

3. 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????

4. 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?

5. 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?

6. The Founding Ideals: Liberty
LibertyFreedom
“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?

7. 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?

8. 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?

9. 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?