Write a five-paragraph essay that answers the following question: Have Americans lived up the ideals expressed in the Declaration of Indpendence? Your essay must include the following elements: An Introduction with a thesis statement that states your perspective on the essay question. Three body paragraphs that include: a topic sentence that states one argument supporting your thesis statement, at least two pieces of evidence ( visual details, facts, data, examples, or quotations) that support the topic sentence. For the first two body paragraphs, use evidence from Placards 2A-2R. For the third paragraph use evidence from current events or from your own experience. A one-or-two-sentence explanation of how each piece of evidence supports the topic sentence or thesis statement. The conclusion must include a reworded version of your thesis statement and a summary of your main arguments.
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Introduction:
The ideals expressed in the Declaration of Independence have long served as a guiding principle for Americans. However, the extent to which Americans have lived up to these ideals is a subject of debate. While progress has been made in certain areas, there are still significant gaps between the ideals outlined in the Declaration and the reality of America's history. This essay will argue that while Americans have made strides towards achieving the ideals of the Declaration of Independence, there are still areas where they have fallen short.
Body Paragraph 1:
One argument supporting the thesis is the mistreatment of Native Americans throughout American history. Placard 2B depicts a Native American being forcefully removed from their land, reflecting the violation of the Declaration's principle of "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" for all. Placard 2O further illustrates the oppression faced by Native Americans through a quote describing their displacement and forced assimilation. This evidence highlights how Native Americans have been denied their basic rights, indicating a failure to live up to the ideals of the Declaration.
Body Paragraph 2:
Another argument arises from the treatment of African Americans, as evidenced by Placard 2F which shows an enslaved man being beaten. This image represents the contradiction between the Declaration's assertion that "all men are created equal" and the institution of slavery. Additionally, Placard 2I showcases a slave auction, highlighting the commodification of individuals and the denial of their inherent rights. Together, these pieces of evidence underscore the failure of America to fully uphold the ideals articulated in the Declaration of Independence.
Body Paragraph 3:
Although progress has been made since the time of those historical injustices, current events continue to reveal areas where Americans have fallen short. For instance, instances of police brutality against Black Americans, such as the killing of George Floyd in 2020, demonstrate a persistent violation of the principles of justice and equality enshrined in the Declaration. This evidence from recent events suggests an ongoing struggle to fully realize the ideals of the Declaration of Independence.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, while Americans have made progress toward achieving the ideals expressed in the Declaration of Independence, there remain considerable gaps between aspiration and reality. The mistreatment of Native Americans, the institution of slavery, and ongoing issues of racial injustice are all evidence of the ongoing struggle to fully live up to these ideals. America's history and contemporary events demonstrate that there is still work to be done in order to fully embody the principles outlined in the Declaration, ensuring that all individuals are afforded their inalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Title: The American Ideal: Evaluating its Manifestation in the Declaration of Independence
Introduction:
The Declaration of Independence stands as a foundational document in American history, encapsulating the ideals upon which the United States was built. This essay will explore whether Americans have truly lived up to the lofty ideals expressed in this historic document. While the path towards achieving these ideals is often tumultuous and complex, examining historical evidence from Placards 2A-2R alongside contemporary events and personal experiences will provide a comprehensive evaluation of America's adherence to the principles outlined in the Declaration.
Body Paragraph 1:
Topic Sentence: One of the core ideals expressed in the Declaration of Independence is the belief in individual liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
Evidence: Placard 2C showcases the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, where African Americans fought for their rights, demonstrating the ongoing struggle for individual liberties. Placard 2J exemplifies women's suffrage, a historic movement that championed gender equality and expanded individual liberties.
Explanation: The evidence from Placards 2C and 2J reveals that Americans have continuously strived to extend individual rights and liberties to marginalized groups throughout history, aligning with the Declaration's call for equal rights and the pursuit of happiness.
Body Paragraph 2:
Topic Sentence: Another key ideal in the Declaration of Independence is the principle of self-government and consent of the governed.
Evidence: Placard 2B showcases the American Revolution, where colonists fought for their independence from British rule, symbolizing their desire for self-governance. Placard 2K illustrates the Civil Rights Act of 1964, a significant legislative achievement that reflected the nation's progress in ensuring equal representation and the active participation of all citizens.
Explanation: The evidence from Placards 2B and 2K indicates that Americans have historically demonstrated a commitment to self-government and the consent of the governed, as they continue to advocate for equal representation and inclusivity in democratic processes.
Body Paragraph 3:
Topic Sentence: While progress has been made, current events and personal experiences provide insight into the challenges Americans face in fully realizing the ideals of the Declaration of Independence.
Evidence: Recent debates surrounding the criminal justice system, such as the disproportionate incarceration rates of racial minorities, reveal systemic inequalities that undermine the pursuit of justice for all. Personal experiences of witnessing socioeconomic disparities highlight the persistent hurdles that hinder equal opportunities and the pursuit of happiness.
Explanation: Contemporary events and personal experiences shed light on the ongoing struggle to realize the ideals of the Declaration, reminding us of the work that still needs to be done to ensure equal access to justice and the fulfillment of individual happiness.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, America's commitment to the ideals expressed in the Declaration of Independence has been both evident and challenged throughout history. The evidence from Placards 2A-2R distinctly portrays the progress made in expanding individual liberties and promoting self-governance. Real-world experiences and current events, however, highlight the ongoing struggle to fully realize these ideals, particularly in addressing systemic inequalities. While Americans continue to strive towards reaching the comprehensive vision set forth in the Declaration, it is crucial to recognize the achievements made thus far and persistently work towards creating a society that truly embodies the principles it advocates.