THOMAS JEFFERSON (1743-1826)

Credited as author of the Declaration of Independence, Jefferson was a wealthy Southerner that believed in the economic opportunity of the United States. He believed that government should be for a wealthy, educated upper-class to control the uneducated lower-class. He was even a member of the Virginia House of Burgesses (the law making group) that traced its origins back to Jamestown. Tommy made the Louisiana Purchase in 1803 which doubled the size of the nation overnight. This event was a precursor for the idea of “Manifest Destiny.” During this time Jefferson had an open sexual relationship with Sally Hemings, one of his slaves, much to the chagrin of his wife. This portrait was taken in 1800 while he was serving as the 3rd President of the US.

QUESTION:

The Declaration of Independence is highly praised for its message of equality and democracy. What message does it send that Jefferson was a slave owner and did not do any actual fighting in the Revolutionary War?

DANIEL SHAYS (1747-1825)

After serving as a soldier in the Continental Army, Daniel Shays returned to his New England farm to find himself in great amount of debt. Like many veterans, the Revolutionary War provided post traumatic stress disorder but no money. When he was unable to pay taxes on his land, the local Massachusetts government attempted to imprison Daniel and other veterans. Soon, under his command, 800 veterans and farmers marched against the local government militia (soldiers). Daniel and his group were overpowered and captured in 1787 when this etching of him was made. After losing “Shays Rebellion” Daniel was condemned to death but later spared. He died poor and unknown in New England.

QUESTION:

What message was the government sending by mistreating veterans that were too poor to pay their debts. Why were they not given more aid for sacrificing their lives in the Revolutionary War? Has the treatment of veterans improved since then (Vietnam, Iraq, etc.)?