Class Update: 10-16-12 and 10-17-12

Yesterday in class we read the Declaration of Independence. Then, we were put into groups and each group was assigned a section of the Declaration. My group had the closing. The authors stated that they were now separate from Britain and gave themselves full right to act as their country and make all their decisions with the consent of the King. They closed by declaring that they would give everything (such as their fortunes and sacred honor) to make it work. They would rather put their lives on the line for treason and loose everything than break their promise to give the colonies liberty. The next day we were put into groups with people we were not with the day before. We each told each other about what we learned the yesterday. Then, as a class, we talked about what it means that each man signed the Declaration as opposed to the conspirators in Julius Caesar who simply gave each their word. We also discussed what it means to trust people- that to everyone trust is different and may be easier or harder to give out. I really don't blame the signers for wanting their promise in writing; they had a lot to loose if they weren't able to win the Revolution and I'm sure some of them would consider going back on what they said. But, this document was more than just about a promise. It was also showing King George III that they were serious and 56 highly respected men wished for independence and were willing to do whatever it takes. Also in class, we talked a little bit about the debate and how the government has changed and how we can still use our rights to change what we don't like.