US History I Touchstone 4
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Southern University at Shreveport *
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1
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History
Date
Apr 3, 2024
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docx
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7
Uploaded by 13destinygay
Name: Date: 2/20/24
US History I Touchstone 4: Analyzing Primary Sources Template
Complete the following template, including all parts, for each primary source you chose from the Touchstone 4: Primary Source List. Fill
out all cells using complete sentences.
Part 1: Meet the Primary
Source
Primary Source 1 Primary Source 2
Write the title of the
primary source from the Touchstone 4: Primary Source List, and paste the web link here. NOTE: Submissions that discuss primary sources that are not on the provided
list will be returned ungraded.
Deposition of Captain John Parker Concerning the Battle at Lexington: https://www.docsteach.org/documents/document/john-
parker-lexington
George Washington’s First Inaugural Address: https://www.docsteach.org/documents/document/washi
ngton-first-inaugural
What type of primary source is this?
(T
ypes could include a letter, Court Transcript
Speech
speech, court transcript, legislation, diary entry, photograph, artifact, map, broadside, circular,
political cartoon, artwork, etc.)
Provide a brief description of something you notice about the source, as if you were explaining to someone who can’t
see it.
The source appears to be a transcription of a sworn statement given by John Parker, the commander of the
militia in Lexington, on April 25th, 1775. The text has a formal structure, starting with the deposition and then a
certification by Nathaniel Gorham, a notary public, confirming the validity of the deposition and the authority of the justices. The language in the document
is formal and legalistic, as was common in writings from the 18th century. The text describes the events of
the Battle at Lexington, focusing on Parker's account of the British troops' arrival and the ensuing confrontation with his militia, which led to casualties.
This text appears to be a speech delivered by George Washington to the Senate and House of Representatives. It seems to be a printed copy of the speech rather than a handwritten manuscript. The writing style is formal and elegant, reminiscent of 18th-
century speeches. The speech starts with Washington sharing his worries and sense of responsibility when asked to serve as president, then goes on to discuss the importance of freedom and the duties of government. The passage concludes with a prayer for divine guidance and blessings for the new government.
Part 2: Observe its Parts
Primary Source 1 Primary Source 2
Who wrote it or created it? Was it one person, or was it a group, like
an organization? it appears to have been written or dictated by John Parker himself, as it is his sworn testimony recounting the events of the Battle at Lexington.
it was written by George Washington
When was it made?
made on April 25th, 1775 April 30th, 1789
What are two things you know about the personal
background or beliefs of the person or group who created it? (4-
5 sentences)
During the American Revolutionary War, Captain John Parker led the militia in Lexington. He was recognized for his strong patriotism and dedication to protecting the colonies' rights from British tyranny. Parker's deposition highlights his leadership in the colonial resistance movement, detailing the events at the Battle of Lexington and the militia's response to the British troops.
George Washington played a crucial role in the American Revolutionary War and was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. He was recognized for his strong leadership, unwavering integrity, and dedication to the values of freedom and self-rule. Washington's address showcases his humility, sense of duty, and belief in divine providence. He shares his concerns about taking on the presidency
and his optimism for the new government's success.
Was the source meant to be public
or private? If public, who do you
think was the intended audience? (4-5 sentences)
The Battle at Lexington was probably meant to be public, as it stands as a sworn testimony about a significant event in American history—the Battle at Lexington. The target audience would have included the wider community, other colonial leaders, citizens, and possibly even British authorities. The goal was to present the events from Parker's point of view and to emphasize the colonists' complaints against British actions. It might have also inspired more resistance against British oppression.
Address was also intended to be public, as it was delivered as a speech during his inauguration ceremony. The primary audience would have been members of the Senate, House of Representatives, other government officials, and the general public who were present at the inauguration. However, given the significance of the occasion and the themes addressed
in the speech, it was likely meant to resonate with a broader audience, including citizens across the newly formed United States, as Washington sought to unify the nation under the new government and reassure them of his commitment to their well-being.
Part 3: Interpret its
Meaning:
Historical
Primary Source 1 Primary Source 2
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Context
Describe two other
things that were happening at the time the source was created.
(4-5 sentences)
t the time the Deposition of Captain John Parker Concerning the Battle at Lexington was created in April
1775, tensions between the American colonies and British authorities were escalating, leading to the outbreak of the American Revolutionary War. Battles and skirmishes, such as those at Lexington and Concord, were occurring as colonial militias clashed with British troops. Additionally, the Second Continental
Congress was convening in Philadelphia, where delegates were deliberating on how to respond to the escalating conflict with Britain and considering the declaration of independence. The Continental Army was also being formed under the command of General George Washington, with volunteers from various colonies mobilizing for military action against British forces.
During the time George Washington's First Inaugural Address was delivered in April 1789, the newly ratified United States Constitution was being implemented, marking the beginning of the federal government under
the new framework. George Washington's inauguration
as the first President of the United States marked the end of a long fight for independence and the creation of a reliable republican government. Furthermore, there were continuous debates and conversations about the ratification of the Bill of Rights, which would eventually be included in the Constitution to ensure individual liberties and rights. America was dealing with
economic challenges, such as war debt and the necessity to create a stable financial system under the guidance of the newly established Congress and President Washington.
How does that context (or background information) help you understand why it wa
s created? (4-5 sentences)
Understanding the context surrounding the creation of the Deposition of Captain John Parker Concerning the Battle at Lexington provides insight into why it was created. The deposition was likely made in response to
Discussing the growing tensions between the American
colonies and British authorities, particularly following the Battle at Lexington, one of the initial clashes of the American Revolutionary War. Parker's testimony provides a detailed account of the events and actions carried out by the colonial militia in defense against British forces. This adds to the overall story of colonial resistance and helps explain the reasons behind the armed rebellion against British rule. The goal was to offer a personal perspective on the events to gather backing for the colonial movement and to record British
the context surrounding George Washington's First Inaugural Address elucidates its purpose. Given the establishment of the federal government under the newly ratified Constitution, Washington's speech was intended to establish the atmosphere for his presidency and comfort the nation amidst a time of major political change. The aim was to instill confidence in the new government's capacity to tackle the nation's challenges, such as governance, national unity, and foreign relations. Moreover, the address highlighted Washington's modesty, dedication to democratic values, and belief in divine guidance, delivering a unifying message to the American people at a crucial point in the nation's history.
hostility for audiences at home and abroad.
Part 4: Interpret its
Meaning: Main
Points and
Purpose
Primary Source 1 Primary Source 2
What is the main idea or point of the
source? Use specific evidence from the source itself to support your answer. (4-5 sentences)
Washington's speech was intended to establish the atmosphere for his presidency and comfort the nation amidst a time of major political change. The aim was to
instill confidence in the new government's capacity to tackle the nation's challenges, such as governance, national unity, and foreign relations. Moreover, the address highlighted Washington's modesty, dedication to democratic values, and belief in divine guidance, delivering a unifying message to the American people at a crucial point in the nation's history.
George Washington's First Inaugural Address aims to communicate his modesty, dedication to democratic values, and appeal for unity as he takes office. He shares his concerns about assuming the duties of the president and his faith in divine providence to lead the next administration. Washington also exhorts the American people to seek the common good and preserve the stability and prosperity of the country by highlighting the significance of preserving the ideals of liberty, morality, and free governance.
Why do you think this primary source
was made? Provide evidence from your prior responses to support your claim.
(4-5 sentences)
This was created to give a sworn testimony about what
happened during the Battle at Lexington. The document's formal structure, such as the certification by a notary public and justices of the peace, indicates its purpose as legal documentation. According to Captain Parker's testimony, it helps to record British aggression and support the actions of the colonial militia in opposing British authority. In the midst of rising tensions between the American colonies and British authorities in the American Revolutionary War, the deposition is used to highlight the colonists' grievances and support their resistance to British oppression.
The address highlighted his humility, dedication to democratic principles, and appeal for unity as he took on the presidency. The speech shows Washington's concerns about assuming the duties of the presidency and his belief in divine providence to lead the new government. Furthermore, Washington stresses the significance of maintaining the principles of liberty, morality, and free government, encouraging the American people to strive for the common good and uphold the stability and prosperity of the nation. Considering the circumstances surrounding the formation of the federal government under the recently approved Constitution, Washington's address was
intended to establish the tone for his presidency and provide reassurance to the nation amidst a time of major political change.
Part 5: Use it as
Historical
Evidence
Primary Source 1 Primary Source 2
What are two historical questions this source could help you to answer? How did the events of the Battle at Lexington unfold, and what were the circumstances leading up to the clash between colonial militia and British troops?
What role did local militia leaders, such as Captain John Parker, play in organizing colonial resistance efforts against British authority during the early stages of the American Revolutionary War?
What are two pieces of information the source presents that you should “fact check” (verify
as true) by checking other primary or secondary sources?
The specific details provided in Captain John Parker's deposition regarding the actions of the colonial militia and the British troops during the Battle at Lexington. It would be important to cross-reference these details with other primary sources, such as eyewitness accounts or military reports, to verify their accuracy and
ensure a comprehensive understanding of the events.
The sentiments expressed by George Washington in his First Inaugural Address regarding his anxieties, commitment to democratic principles, and call for unity.
While the address provides valuable insights into Washington's mindset and priorities as he assumed the
presidency, fact-checking could involve consulting other primary sources, such as letters or diaries written
by Washington or his contemporaries, to corroborate these sentiments and gain a more nuanced understanding of the political context at the time.
This primary source shows one British military commanders or soldiers could offer valuable insights into the motivations and orders given People who saw or took part in the local community could provide different viewpoints on what happened at
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perspective on this
topic. What are two other perspectives you should get to better understand this event or topic, and why? (4-5 sentences)
to the British troops, as well as their interpretation of the events leading up to and during the battle. It may uncover different viewpoints on the actions taken by both sides and provide insight into British perspectives on colonial resistance.
Lexington. It would be valuable to gather their accounts. Considering viewpoints such as civilians affected by the conflict or witnesses from nearby areas can offer a deeper insight into the impact of the events on the community and varying interpretations.
Reflection: What perspective do you bring to this topic and source? How does your background and the time in which you live affect your
perspective? (4-5 sentences)
My improved understanding of the broader historical context, such as colonial tensions with Britain, the fight for independence, and the increasing conflicts before the American Revolutionary War, shapes how I interpret the source and its importance.
My perspective on military conflicts like the Battle at Lexington is unique. In the era I currently reside in, I view historical events through the perspective of present-day issues, debates, and societal norms, which can impact how I comprehend and analyze the past.
Checklist for Success:
❒
Did you select two primary sources from the Touchstone 4: Primary Source List?
❒
Did you select sources from different time periods?
❒
Did you complete all sections of the template for both sources?
❒
Did you review the grading rubric and compare it to your responses?
❒
Did you review the sample to see an example of a completed assignment?
❒
Did you proofread your work for proper grammar, punctuation, spelling, and capitalization?