Key Historical Events
Looking back at transformative events that altered the trajectory of our civilization accords us with a good sense and a coherent understanding of historical defining events that left an indelible mark on our collective journey. Some of the events covered in this course represent a significant milestone that embodies human resilience and ingenuity and explains the world we live in today. Slavery and the Civil War stand out as key events that have had the most lasting influence on my worldview. Unconsciously, how I interpret and perceive things, besides deciding and acting, can be passively explained through the lenses of these events.
The trauma of slavery has been passed down through the generations for ages, and still today, its harsh realities are apparent in our society, influencing our perception of social classes, power dynamics as well as races. Our ancestors were deprived of their liberty, basic dignity, and opportunity for education, wealth, and due process, which were the sacrifices that made America great (Wright, 2022). Yet, credit is not given due; instead, the descendants of those who died for the betterment of this nation continue to be subjected to disproportionate treatment. Why do we still, in times of prosperity and abundance, treat others like second-class citizens? Today, no man should fight to be treated equally or be free. Humans are all equal. Being okay when others are being mistreated or victimized due to their race, origin, background, religion, sexuality, or other characteristics is absolutely wrong. This course serves as a reminder that creating an equitable and just world is a work in progress, but it starts with inherent dignity and respect for all humanity.
The political and economic control of slavery marked a fatal flaw of Southern society during the Civil War. But could holding onto slavery justify the years of destruction and mass slaughter? It remains mystifying why the Southerners were so bitter about the enslaved individuals finally having a taste of what it meant to be free. Maybe it was due to the cheap labor the blacks were providing and the capitalist mentality that made them see them as production means. But resorting to subjecting them to inhumane torture and killing them for their desire to be free and belong is baffling. I can only imagine what the blacks went through during the Civil War, but it is through times like this that paved the way for societal progress in terms of equality. In an actual sense, we will forever be indebted to our forefathers who sacrificed everything they had to ensure their descendants enjoyed freedom like any other individual. What stands out is their resilience, which truly paid off. The journey to make society better is not as straightforward as people may think because it is plagued with daunting adversities. Some people still want to benefit from others and exploit them. So, it is no surprise that striving for that change may hurt, but it is in the face of race inequalities, systemic injustices, and oppression that change will be seen. Remaining staunch in activism while upholding respect and dignity for all humanity would go a long way in creating a fair and just world where all individuals can thrive and contribute to the betterment of society.
Reference
Wright, G. (2022). Slavery and the rise of the nineteenth-century American economy. Journal of Economic Perspectives, 36(2), 123-148.
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