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About Me
- Paul Aleckson
- I’m Paul Aleckson. I am the District Social Studies Coordinator. I also teach an Advanced Placement U.S. History and a pre AP Seminar Class. I am the Project Coordinator for our Oral History Project (www.dceoralhistory.com) which received the Beveridge Family Teaching Award. I have coached both boys and girls basketball for many years. I am fortunate to work with an amazing social studies staff. They are dedicated to teaching social studies in a fun, exciting manner and to truly helping students become historians and active citizens. I really like to push students to do their very best!
The two most important events in this section were the formation of the Continental Congress and the Battle of Breed's Hill (aka Battle of Bunker Hill). For the people of that time, the Congress proved that the revolution wasn't just mobs and people shouting. It made people realize that wealthy, influential individuals supported the Son's of Liberty and that they were actually trying to do something about the many problems between the colonies and the Empire. Another turning point in history was The Battle of Breed's Hill. It was essensially the start of the Revolutionary War, and a great victory for the Americans, even though they were driven away. It proved to the British that the Americans were willing to fight for their cause. I wonder what would have happened if the British hadn't been so confident the colonists would run away at the sight of their army. Would they have "won" the battle? Nobody will ever know, I suppose.
ReplyDeleteDelaney Ketchum
Delaney, despite a moral victory at Breed's Hill - (American's actually killed a ton more British than the Brits killed Americans) the British still considered it a victory for them since they eventually took the Hill and scattered the Americans to the winds. I think it just fired up the British to bring in a full army, which they did. They always outnumbered the Americans and consequently won most of the Battles. So , then , why did the Americans win? Keep asking good questions Delaney!
ReplyDeleteOlivia Vruwink
ReplyDeleteSection 2 of Rise to Rebellion was very good and very engaging because it seemed like there were more things happening than in part one.
-In response to your suggestion Mr. Aleckson that I watch John Adams, I must say I have seen parts of it before and so those actors are the ones I visualize as I read. Paul Giamatti as John Adams is the character I can most easily picture.
-And since this is historical fiction I have reminded myself to ask more questions and not just accept everything as the exact truth. Most of the time though, I wonder how many emotions described are valid as it is written from many people's perspectives. I assume that Jeff Shaara took letters written between 2 people (or even journal entries) and tried to convey them in conversations to make it more interesting and I think he has done an amazing job.
-One of the cause and effect parts that I recognized as important was when Paul Revere made his ride and warned Sam Adams and John Hancock that the British were coming. Because he did that Adams and Hancock were able to escape and were not captured by the British.
-Also, there were many turning points throughout the book, I believe the biggest one was the Battles of Lexington and shortly after, Concord. This was the 1st time the British had permission to fight back against the rebels and these were skirmishes turned battles with many casualties. I believe that this was a big turning point because there was no going back to peacefulness under the King's rule after this point. The Americans would have to move forward in their steps to Independence whether they liked it or not because after this, they simply could not (or more likely, would not) go and apologize to the King and beg him to forgive them. I believe those 2 battles were the true start to the war.
-I agree with Delaney that the formation of the Continental Congress was an important part of the Revolution because of the things she listed and also because they could join all the colonies together and organize things such as the army which they chose General Washington to lead.
I can't wait to go on to the 3rd section of this book!
Olivia:
ReplyDeleteYou are have put it together. The colonists could not go back after Lexington and Concord. The King would reject colonial appeals for protection from Parliament and declare the colonies in a state of rebellion. The Continental Congress had little choice but to seek Independence. Your cause and effect idea is excellent, without Adams and Hancock the Congress may not have pushed so hard for Independence.
Hannah Anderson
ReplyDelete-After concluding section 2, I am certain that the collection of events that took place throughout the colonies will have a large effect on the events that will take place in section 3. First and foremost, with the Battle of Breed's Hill at the end of the section, and even the Battles at Lexington and Concord, there will be dire consequences for the colonists, and I'm sure several surprises in store for the British. Since section 1, the level of tension between rebel and British soldiers has escalated at alarming rates due to the growing amount of British soldiers occupying Boston and also the first few shots fired at Lexington and Concord. The growing amount of tension negatively affected both the rebels and the British. At one point, Dr. Warren had to risk his own safety by going to General Gage and slyly requiring that citizens be able to leave Boston for more safety outside of the town if they wished to do so. At Dr. Warren's reminder that Tories from all over the colonies would seek shelter under the protection of the British soldiers in Boston, General Gage had to agree to a compromise with Dr. Warren. If the tension hadn't been so high, the level of uncertainty throughout the colonists also wouldn't have been as high. All of their shared uncertainties helped them unite in confronting their now-common enemy at both the Battles of Lexington and Concord and also the Battles of Breed and Bunker Hill.
-I found it sort of humorous that while Generals Gage, Howe, Clinton and Burgoyne were making a plan of attack, many of the ideas that they came up with had the responses of the rebels in mind. For instance, the generals all seem certain that with their grand show of soldiers and artillery, they will have the rebels running for the hills in no time. I would've thought that by this time, they'd have realized how serious the rebels were about the whole ordeal.
-Initially, I was curious as to how the addition of Benjamin Franklin as a member of the Continental Congress would affect the decisions the men would make. Because they had very little success at the first meeting of the Continental Congress, I was surprised just how much influence one man could have over such a vast amount of intelligent men. Therefore, I believe that a major turning point for the Continental Congress came when Benjamin Franklin addressed the men and presented them with his influential views from his many years spent living and dealing with the people of England. Had he not come to the Congress, I'm not sure that the men ultimately would have understood that every negative thing that they had encountered was due to King George sending his approval overseas.
-After reading that Dr. Warren was appointed to Major General, or second in command under Artemas Ward, I questioned its historical accuracy. It seemed unbelievable that a man who had no previous military training or experience was being awarded such a major title. I looked up Joseph Warren online, and found that it was indeed true, however unbelievable. Knowing that it's true, I'm wondering what exactly made him seem more qualified then any of the other men, especially the war veterans of the French and Indian War. Of course, while Sam and John Adams were off at the Continental Congress, I believe Dr. Warren was a large symbol of what the colonies were longing for, and therefore found him just as qualified as any other man, or if not qualified, an inspiring symbol who would help the rebels remember their reason for joining the colonial militia.
-Olivia's comment on the Battles of Lexington and Concord being major for the colonists because they couldn't look back to the King for help anymore. I completely agree. I'm sure that at the announcement of those two battles, the King was outraged. Not only would he not be willing to support or even attempt at reasoning with the colonists, the colonists would not be willing to reason with a man who sent the soldiers that fired upon the men at Lexington and Concord.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_WGjwNnq0Ic and clip two http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T1Txi1687wo . Hannah, you might want to watch these two clip from You Tube, actually they are clips from the HBO series John Adams. You get a feel for the presence of Ben Franklin at the Continental Congress. His reputation was so great that usually when he spoke you could hear a pin drop! He had quite a few years of experience on the founding fathers who were all in their 30s and 40s. I like your perception that his presence at the 2nd Continental Congress was the turning point or catayst for moving the congress towards independence. You may be right. John Adams of course had an impact as well as others. And yes King George and England's Parliament had such a big ego that once blood was shed at Lexington, the colonist would pay dearly. Of course they would continue to underestimate the upstart Americans. Good work Hannah.
ReplyDeleteCarly Bender
ReplyDeleteI agree with Olivia's comment on Cause and Effect. I also thought that it was important when Paul Revere warns John Hancock and Sam Adams about the British, therefore letting them both get away.
-When the men arrive in New York, they have hit a new turf so to say. Its a new culture change to them. The descriptions of the British ships, the cargo being removed, and the workmen, all helped me get a better visual image of what the area must have looked like to the men.
-Lions and Lambs was so far my favorite part to read. The Battle of Lexington was a big turning point at this time. It let the Brits fight back and the battle ended with many casualties and the Americans finally got to move on toward Independence. Another important battle was the Battle at Bunker Hill. It was an initial start to the Revolutionary War, and the Americans won! The Brits also got to see that the Americans were actually fighting for a cause of their own.
-Of the many different perspectives in Shaara's book, I tend to agree most often with John Adams. He doesn't seem as opinionated as some of the other characters. He seems to keeps things moderate and more calm unlike Sam Adams who seems more energy filled and more willing to argue. I hope that the end of the book will be as good if not better than the second part.
Carly:
ReplyDeleteVery insightful. Your interpretaion of the material is very good. New York was a different place for the colonial army. They were not prepared to fight the British there. Paul Revere did save the revolt by warning Hancock and S. Adams. Lexington gave the colonists a chance to fight for their independence and rights, while the British army got to finally legally shoot at the colonists. Bunker Hill did show that the Americans did have a chance to win the war, but it also showed how a shortage of supplies would hurt the colonial army in the first part of the war. The British did capture the hill after the Americans ran out of bullets. John Adams was a level headed individual who always had an intelligent perspective on the revolution. He kept his cool and hought out his every move.
Bailey Schepp
ReplyDelete-I agree with Carly when she states that John Adams' perspective is easiest to agree with. He doesn't really see who is right and who is wrong. He is more focused on the law and justice and what is right.
-I feel the most important aspect of this section is the battles at Lexington and Concord due to the fact that this is the first time that the English army faces the colonial army. They realize that the Americans have land, the element of surprise, and raw passion to fight for what they believe in on their side. Another important aspect to this section is the meetings of the Continental Congress. The first meeting they come to the conclusion that the situation in Boston may happen to any other city and that they need to find a way to stop the situation. The second meeting though, I feel, is more important. At this meeting they make plans to take action against the English. The elect Colonel George Washington from Virginia to lead the army and they determine that a war is inevitable and they need to gater a stronger army and supplies to fight the war.
-When it came to visualizing this section, the Battle of Bunker Hill is most memorable. Shaara uses such vivid detail that as the reader I found myself in Warren's shoes. I could feel my heart racing. I could hear the drums and the screams and the gunshots. I could feel sweat forming and the gun going off on my shoulder. It was the most exciting part of the section and gave a great insight to the next section and future battles.
-I feel that General Gage has changed the most throughout the novel. Throughout section 1 and at the beginning of section 2, he is a man that wants to avoid war at all costs. But near the end of the section he and his wife are discussing plans for the army when he states that,"...more men will die!" Showing the consumption that the war has had on him.
-"Lions and Lambs" was the turing point in the book. Actions were being taken and plans were being followed. From the battles of Lexington and Concord, and most recently the Battle of Bunker Hill, there is no turning back for either side. They have to finish what they started and can't look back.
Karlie Merkel
ReplyDelete-By chapter 23 of Rise to Rebellion, I was able to make connections to my own life. I lived about an hour away from Philadelphia until I was eleven and have been there quite a few times. The last time I was there (about 5 years ago) I took a tour of Independence hall. While waiting for the tour to start, I told my brother to go and stand in front of a building that I was told had some historical significance, so I could take a picture. Now, while reading this section, I was fairly certain I had seen Carpenters hall, simply because I had been around Philadelphia and seen lots of old historic building, but I couldn’t seem to picture it. I ended up image searching the hall, and sure enough, it’s the building in the background of a couple of pictures I took. Being able to picture in my mind where these meetings took place made this part of the book pretty exciting for me.
-After the motion to make George Washington commander of the continental army, I found the exchange between Washington and Ben Franklin to hold some importance. Washington says “...I am not so sure about this. I am but an amateur in these affairs.” Franklin replies with a laugh, saying “So are we all, Colonel. So are we all.” (pg. 305) I found this sort of amusing, it seems like Washington is talking about his duties commanding an army, but Franklin, always seeing the big picture, is talking about creating an independent country. Of course you are and armature at these “affairs”, it’s not every day you have to figure out how to start and run a country.
-Since part one, violence has escalated greatly. Before now, it was much more a war of words. Everyone seems to be taking things a bit more seriously. Previously, it seemed like the entire situation was just an annoyance to England, and while they still don’t seem to be taking it as seriously as the Americans, it’s a pretty big problem. The only thing that has stayed consistent in England’s urge to just have the problem taken care of, whatever it takes. They don’t seem to be concerned with who gets hurt in the process.
-King George seems to view the world as his to do with what he wants. Because of this feeling, it doesn’t seem like he has a full understanding of the situation, of why the colonies might disagree with the things he does. With this view of the world, his decisions tend to be less based on what his people need, and more based on what will work best for him.
-I agree with Bailey, the most important part of this section has to be the battles of Lexington and Concord; it kicked of the violent element of the war. As I stated before, while there were a few violent outbursts previously, it had been more a war of words.
Bailey:
ReplyDeleteExcellent thoughts and insights. John Adams was concerned about rights and justice and as time past more colonists would see things from his point of view. Lexington and Concord was a great surprize to the British Army. The colonial militia fought well, they had a cause and were letting off all of the pent up frustration due to British taxes and laws. Bunker Hill was a victory for the British, they won the hill, but it was a great boost to the colonials. They fought well until supplies ran out. The battle was a key indicator that the British would fight in the european style, which would be hard to win with in the colonies.
Karlie:
ReplyDeleteExcellent conclusions. Ben Franklin was the wisest man in the world at his time. He was talking about the big picture, but was trying to assure Washington that the revolution would have a chance to succeed. England did not think the colonials had a chance to win the war for independence. But as time passed the colonial army became a better fighting force and the British were caught off guard. Both sides had good reasons to think they were right and the other was wrong. Time would show that the American leaders grew in their abilities to handle tough situations and the British would tire from not being to win the war.
Kathryn Block
ReplyDeleteAs the British soldiers marched back from Concord, it says "by the time the soldiers finally reached the safety of Boston, they had left in their wake a terror of their own, citizens who had no part of the day's fight murdered in their homes, houses and farms put to the torch." This instantly reminded me of a connection to the Civil War. This description is similar to one of Sherman's March to the Sea with disastrous affects of total war.
Also, during Adam's speech (page 303) he describes the British as a coiled snake, waiting to strike anyone who treads on it. My prediction is that this speech was the influence for the flag saying "Don't tread on me" although it is used in a different context.
Unquestionably, this section contained major turning points, one of them being the Battle of Bunker Hill. As the British soldiers fled through the smoke of musket fire, the advantage in the war turned in favor to the Americans. The militia proved that they had the capability and the spirit to face the British and possibly defeat them.
There is extensive cause and effect for both the British and the American armies. One cause is the three disagreeing generals coming over from England. This caused the British strategy to take longer in planning, leaving more time for Washington, the generals, and the soldiers to prepare for battle. During this point of British weakness they are inadvertently giving strength to the Americans.
I agree with Karlie's thoughts on Washington's words. In addition to the meaning of what is said, it shows some of Washington's personality. He is humble and cautious about the position to which he has been appointed.
Hi Kathryn
ReplyDeleteI love that you are making historical connections. It is so true that wars have common themes but these marches are a lot more specific than that and a very valid point. I would also add this fits in with Washington's strategy--keep alive...as long as the American troops exist..America has not lost the war. (Speaking of humble just wait until we look at his Presidency.) Looking forward to your next comments.
Matt Murphy
ReplyDeleteThis sections starts off with Adams having to leave his wife and kids. The departure reminded me of when people have to leave for war and they have to say goodbye to their family.
Another reading thought that I had was predicting that the violence would continue to increase. In the first section battles were fought with words rather then physical battles but in the second section physical conflicts start to occur such as the Battle of Bunker Hill. So I predict that these kind of battles will continue and grow in the number of people fighting until the British leave America.
I think that giving the perspective of General Gage made the book better because it let you know what the British were feeling like during the battles and specifically what Gage was feeling. Like when the Cerberus showed up and he thought for sure he was going to be replaced but he didn't he. He did realize that London was counting more on the other three men then him.
I completely agree with Kathryn about the Battle at Bunker Hill to be a major turning point. I think she is right on about it lifting the colonists' spirits and giving them belief that they could beat the British and gain their independence.
Elita Miller
ReplyDeleteThis section amazes me because it moves so quickly (for their time period anyway). Once the catalyist that was the First Continental Congress met, everything seemed to take off in the book. We flashed to Franklin who became the first person to realize that all the petitions were being intercepted and never even reaced the king. I was wondering that, since the book never said that the king gave the order to not recieve anything from the colonies, why is it he never got the Petition of the Continental Congress?
On another note, in part II the word "independance" has become less of a taboo idea, which i think is a very key idea.
THL
A very important thing that has changed is that the British have it in their heads at this point that war is inevetable. Now, instead of shunning the words and ideas of the American in their midst, the Commanders (like Admiral Howe) want to use his influence to try and stop a war from happening.
Another intersting idea is that, by using their presence in Boston, Gage hoped to scare the sons of liberty into stopping their rebellion, but Sam Adams used to his advantage to get morepeople on his side by saying that they were threatening the people.
Kathryn uses the word "war"in her last post, but at this point it is not offically stated. But i agree with the term because England and the colonies have been butting heads for quite some time. It was time that they used this word for real .
Matt
ReplyDeleteI am curious to find out what you already know about the battles of this war and now knowing more about the British side how has it changed your thoughts about this war. It sounds like hearing the personal side of war is giving you some new perspective or as we would say in thinking like an historian terms--"through their eyes". I think it is great that you point out a major theme of war escalating and advancing. Thanks for you comments.
Elita
ReplyDeleteI can't speak to all specific correspondence. But we do know for example that king knew of the existence of the Olive Branch Petition (1775)and just refused to see it. (This document was the patriots one last attempt at reconciling and giving the crown one last chance.) It is also clear that the king believed that the colonists were being represented through "virtual representation" and that would have very likely been his arguments for not receiving all of these petitions. (Obviously that would not be good enough for the patriots). I appreciated the thoughtful questions..keep it up.
Jazzmin Nylund
ReplyDeleteAs I was reading the second section of Rise to Rebellion the question that kept going around in my head was ‘How is the Congress ever going to move forward when they take so many steps back?’ The Continental Congress was split in two so much that it seemed hard to ever find some sort of middle ground where they both feel like it’s a good idea. It seemed like all they did was fight about who was right and who was wrong. Either they forgive the king or fight. And because there two very different things it seems too hard to find a middle ground. And this seemed to be the strong conflict throughout this section, and not only just inside the Congress.
When I was reading the speeches in the book I slowly started to think of today’s politics. When in the time of the book the Continental Congress was debating about either to get the kings forgiveness, or take action and fight against Britain. Today there are the two big opposing sides; Democrats and Republicans. Two different sides and both want different things. Even though it’s not exactly the same it still has the fact that there’s always that other side to disagree and it’s always hard to find the middle ground when both think interlay different things. But it does show when something tragic happens that effects both side they seem to come together as one and start agree on certain issues.
When Battle of Bunker Hill was happening a man named, Rafe Johnson, talked to Dr. Warren he explained that because of him and his writings he had come to the hill to fight. “If you hadn’t come up here, half these men would have been gone already. Maybe even me.”( pg. 369) It was interesting to read that when standing up and stating their beliefs for others to hear and read it really influences a lot of people’s views on the issue. It showed that if people keep quiet about their view on the world things may never change and always remain the same. I also believe if no one spoke up in the first place it would have caused a ripple effect so that the Congress wouldn’t have been made and the Battle of Bunker Hill wouldn’t have taken place.
I agree with the perspective in what John Adams was thinking in the beginning of chapter 31, and that war was needed to be taken into consideration. Seeing as how things were playing out war did seem like the only real option. Both the patriots and the loyalist couldn’t find a thing they could agree with, and now that the British are taking violent actions it did seem like the thought that should be taken into account.
When Elita was saying that everything was moving fast I agree with what she’s saying. It’s hard to gather so many people as quickly as they seemed to do when there so far away from one another without easy transportation. So I was a little shocked in how quickly the congress was thought up and brought together.
Larissa Woolsey
ReplyDeleteAs the second section starts, I can start to feel the anticipation in the characters. With the strengthening of the Son’s of Liberty, and a gathering of all 13 colonist, you can start to feel the scale shift to the favor of the radicals, whose ideas start to become less of an enigma to the common citizen. Although I had made predictions about the congress, I found them swept away within the first few pages. I had always assumed that the congress was compiled of the same minds. But, I find myself realizing that these men were very different and had come with very different backgrounds. Which, I guess that makes more sense then my preconceived notions. It is obvious that people like Dickinson definitely do not share the same thoughts as people like Sam Adams. And, never did I think the debates were to be that long or tedious. I find myself sorry to admit that if I were one of the congressmen, I would have simply dropped out after the first month of bouts.
I did come to one question while reading…more or less. It is often depicted in the “The Midnight Ride” That Paul Revere is bellowing “the British are coming” and did it all without help. But, in the book (which I’m sure is a more accurate texts) tells of a rather hushed event with the assistance of William Dawes, who seems to be overlooked by most of history
You can clearly see a turning point with the battle at Lexington and Concord. It is now become apparent to the British that the colonist are willing to stand up to their cause, and have the men and arms to do it. Of course, this becomes a stressor to General Gage to take appropriate actions to eliminate opposition. Finally, it is becoming apparent that a war is duly approaching.
Once again, I find myself drawn in with the use of different perspectives. I can almost feel Pitcairn’s apprehension as he faces 400 armed men at Concord. I can also feel his resignation as he decides upon a retreat that ends up dooming most of his men.
I agree with Elita in the aspect that “independence” doesn’t seem like such a foreign concept. It has become a much more tangible accessory in the eyes of the colonist.
Jazzmin:
ReplyDeleteExcellent thoughts. You have a good understanding of the situation. Congress did try to avoid the war, but as the King refused to listen to them and as the war gave them success at Bunker Hill. The Congress were forced to seek independence and the war was on.
Larissa:
ReplyDeleteExcellent ideas. Yes there were many different points of view in the Congress. Some were moderates and wanted to avoid war if possible. Others were demanding independence. Understanding different perspectives gives us a total picture of the time period and how some people do get left out if the people recording the history do not agree with their point of view.
Jenna Terek
ReplyDeleteThe scene that I remember most from this section was the last chapter, 33, when Dr. Warren ends up in a battle. It is very intense and the movie is still clear in my mind. Seconds before Prescott proclaimed "Fire!" the description of the man that Warren was hoping to kill captured my attention. Minutes later he stirs up a conversation with Rafe Johnson and their connection for the next few minutes is also invigorating when they exchange, "Aim Low"'s. Previously in the section, Gage is talking to his wife Margaret and they begin to bicker. Since Margaret is from America she begins to mock the king, and Gage forgives her for her outburst. This showed that men in that time, displayed stubborn attitudes and believed in the superior of the household. I think that Gage got very angry because he knew his wife had made a strong point but he wasn't going to back down from his beliefs.
The colonists in this time viewed their world as a stressful but changing place. Most viewed England as a controlling place and the people who didn't would eventually change their views. This affected the Continental Congress's choices because they realized they could be living in a much more productive and free world, and that life could be a lot fairer and happier. This led them to creating the Continental Congress in the first place. The major turning point of this section was the Battle at Breed's Hill. It was really the start of the war and kind of the announcement to the British that the American's were passionate about this change and were not going to back down until something different would take place in their government. This battle also gave colonists a lot more trust to what the American's where doing and gave the revolutionists more support.
I agree with Larissa that during this section the tensions are rising and a war is approaching. Also, her assumptions that the debates were shorter and they all consisted of much of the same ideas. I am confused though as to why she would think that this text would be any more accurate than that of the Midnight Ride, but her predictions could be completely true.
Michelle Mumper
ReplyDeleteTo begin, section two was very exciting to read because this is where the rebellion against the British really started to heat up and get moving. I was a little disappointed at the beginning however, when the colonists held their first Continental Congress. I was under the impression that many of the other delegates were more supportive of a break with England and therefore predicted these long passionate speeches from the delegates as to why they should do it. One of the reasons I truly believed this was because of how Sam Adams spoke to John in his room. The way he spoke made it seem as if all these people were on their side. However, in the end my prediction was proved wrong. The congress was in fact more conservative and rather than drawing up a plan to break with England they made a plan to try and stay with England. Also, I have a question concerning the mission General Gage had his British troops perform in the beginning of the section. How did the information about his mission get to Dr. Warren? I just don’t understand how something so important was so easily leaked to the public. To continue, I think the message the author wants to send is that colonists really have grown as one people. I mean the section begins with the first Continental Congress and nobody’s really on the same page. Everybody kind of has their own idea as to how to deal with the issues facing England, but as the section continues you can see everyone start to tie together, especially once Benjamin Franklin comes to America and to the second Continental Congress and gives his insight of how the government really is in England and what the colonists aren’t able to see. Well anyways, they are able to really come together and form an army able to hold up a fight against the British which is really something. Furthermore, there was one part in this section where I could really visualize in my head what was happening. Towards the very end of the section when we see the Battle of Breed’s Hill through the eyes of Dr. Warren, the paragraph where he gets shot and starts dying was not just very upsetting but very clear and easy to visualize as well. Finally, while reading Larissa’s blog I really liked how she discussed how differently the book portrayed Paul Revere’s ride to Lexington and I also agree with her when she says the book is probably more accurate, but then again I guess it may not be.
Paige Wolfe
ReplyDeleteWhen reading Section 2, thing really began to heat up between the colonists and the British. Main events happening in this section was the battle at Lexington and Concord, the formation of the Continental Congress and the Battle of Breed's Hill. When I was reading about Paul Revere seeing the two flashes from the lantern from the church meaning the British were coming by sea it reminded me of the movie, National Treasure, in the end where the main character Ben Gated tricks the antagonist Ian into thinking it was the next clue. Also when I was reading I was wondering on how the author knew what all the character were thinking back then that he was able to write it from the characters perspectives. My best guess would be that he used letters that he found when he researched them. The book really became interesting when the colonists began to revolt at Lexington and Concord. This ended up becoming the start of the war and General Thomas Gage really started to find an opposition towards British. The British were really caught off guard by the colonists because they didn't think they were as organized and as tough as they were. Another moment in the book I really liked was when they were electing a man to command the army. When George Washington's name was proposed by John Hancock the room became very quiet before Sam Adams seconded the motion. This was the a very powerful moment because now the colonist were an official army with a commander that could lead them to victory. Moreover, I agree with Michelle that when Dr. Warren was dying it was easy to visualize. When Dr. Warren is getting killed he first starts to hear a loud roaring then his body fully going numb and finally he loses all consciousness.
Rachelle Belott
ReplyDeleteI would like to start off by agreeing with the majority of the bloggers that this section is the turning point of the book. This being said, the Battles of Lexington and Concord, Breed and Bunker Hill occur and symbolize the colonists finally starting to rebel. Shaara did a good job in displaying the tension between the colonists and the king. We have all learned and memorized Paul Revere's famous statement, "The British are coming!" However, reading this book really gives the full insights of these famous historic leaders. Futhermore, I found the last few pages of this section to be very tense. I feel like I could relate; it must be like hunting. One's heart races just as they are about to be given the order from their dad to pull the trigger, just like these soldiers are awaiting their kill. Lastly, I had also been wondering how the author knew all these thoughts from the characters, like Paige had been. I would have to agree with him on the fact that he probably looked back at letters and interviewed descending relatives from these historic heroes.
Morgan Aubrey
ReplyDeleteAlong with the first section, reading this section brought many new insights to me. The American Revolution used to just be another point on our country's history to me, but after reading this novel, I can make many more connections and fully appreciate its true importance. This section opens up with John Adams leaving his family. I made a connection with this-- people still have to go through that. Soldiers that go away to war have to leave their spouses and children as well. I really enjoyed the insights Shaara provided into John Adam's life. It made the story more relatable and interesting to readers.
I also agree with most bloggers that this section is the turning point of the novel. Many important events happened during this section, as Rachelle said, the battles that went down demonstrated the colonists begin of rebellion. I also really like Rachelle's connection of the war to hunting. I personally have never hunted, but I see what Rachelle means. There is a lot of anticipation and tension involved with both of those activities.
Michael Bushar
ReplyDeleteWhen the colonies declared their independance from Great Britain, it forever changed the course of the world. Not only were they rebelling against the taxes imposed on them by the British, they were also rebelling against tyrranical monarchies who gained wealth and power at the expense of others. The Declaration of Independance stated that all men are created equal and that all people have certain inalienable rights. The writers of the document had some grand ideas for a new way of thinking. It went entirely against a system where a few elitists had control over "lesser" people. Also, since slavery was common, the US was now forced to eventually rethink this practice.
It is also amazing to me how determination,guts and conviction can defeat a well-trained army. It can be thought of as a life lesson---anything can be achieved through had work and belief in yourself.
Morgan;
I agree with you about making connections with the past and present. It kind of makes you wonder how much has really changed between then and now.
Christina Olbrantz
ReplyDeleteThis section of the book was really interesting to read because it's when the rebellion really starts to get moving. A connection I made in this section was when Adams had to leave his family to go to the continental congress. He knew he had to go and do what was best for everyone else, but he didn't want to leave his family. This reminded of some people I know that have left their families to fight the war in Iraq. During the continental congress, I was expecting most of the delegates to want a break from the British. I was surprised to find out that many of them didn't actually want that at first.
I also agree with many of the bloggers about this section being a turning point of the novel. This is when the colonies start to work together to get rid of the British. At the beginning of the section many Americans didn't want a break from the British. As the section went on, a lot of their views changed as they realized that they needed a break.
I agree with Michael when he says that guts and conviction can defeat a well-trained army. In most cases the well-trained army will always be victorious. However, I agree with him that with hard work and belief in yourself, any army could be victorious.
Becca Dottenwhy
ReplyDeleteIn section two I found two of the main events to be the rejection of Lord Chatham’s proposal to parliament and the different perspectives between John Dickinson and Benjamin Franklin. I thought that the rejection of Chatham’s proposal was one of the major turning points toward the realization of war with the colonies. By parliament agreeing with John Montagu in the immediate refusal of Chatham’s proposal, they were effectively saying that they had given up on reestablishing connections with the colonies, and that they were ready to go to war. Moreover, I found the differences of opinions between Dickinson and Franklin to be interesting. In Mr. Dickinson’s opinion there is still hope for the colonies to establish peace with the mother country if they would appeal directly to the king. However, Mr. Franklin, from living in England, knows that any hope of instituting peace with the king has been extinguished. It was interesting to see that those two very different opinions could exist together, and that Mr. Dickinson could be so in denial of losing his king’s loyalty. I agree with Christina that during this section we begin to see the colonists working together to break with England. One place where this can be clearly seen is in the Continental Army. The agreement alone to create the army was a significant step in working together to push the British out.
Josh Zahrt
ReplyDeleteSome of the things in the book remind me of people going away to war today with iraq but also there is somethings that can remind people of times such as the vietnam war or korean war with people being recruited into the army to help defend ourselves
it seemed to me that some people thought that we were just fighting for our land or for a few rights but it was much more then that it was rebelling against tryanical leaders who prey on the poor and lowly to make their wealth and gain power and it also after many years made a safe haven for many who are prosocuted for color race religion or the like
THL
one POV from this chapter was that of the british after breeds hill to them it seemed that it was a win because they scattered the colonists but to the colonists it must have seemed to be a win because they killed so many more british even though the british were much better trained and armed this could have been because the colonists were out numbered to it was easier for one person to take out many british then it was for the british to find and take out many colonists
another POV thats interesting to think about it the kings, he has sent people to the new land to aquire land for england so he can spread his holdings and to gain more power and wealth but then to his suprise the colonists that he sent and has helped to grow have started to rebel so they can be free of him
i like how Becca brought up the differences between Franklin and Dickinson with looking at the kings side of things we can see that Franklin was correct that the king would have never accepted the colonists plea for peace
Josh Paulson
ReplyDeleteJust a side note before i begin, i got a chance to watch The Revolution on History channel so it really gave me a good background when comparing and contrasting this book to the show.
Part two starts to really pick up, i predicted a quite obvious prediction that battle will eventually breakout because of the increasing hostility between the colonies and Great Britain.
One thing i was majorly surprised of was how John Adams was so active in the revolution. I always pictured Adams as a laid back, watch from the sideline type. The book really opened my eyes and gave me more respect for him.
When people say in this section there is the major turning point, i would have to agree and disagree. I agree because the americans are finally holding their own in battles, but i disagree because the major turning point would be when they finally decided to take action. i think that turning point has more value than the actual war.
As for the battle of Bunker Hill, that was most definitely a shock to everyone. The so called "army" that these colonists have, just put up an amazing fight against the greatest army in the world. The redcoats must've been shocked and ashamed.
I agree with Josh's comment about modern warfare is similar to war long ago. War never changes, and there will continue to be war as long as there is conflict.
Steve Nicklaus
ReplyDeleteThings are now starting to escelate alot. The war has started and things are turning ugly. The book describes the events in the book very well and am able to picture what is going on. It describes the events better than any other book that I have ever read about the American Revolution.
There are also other things in this book I have read that I didn't know about. Like the battle of bunker hill didn't really take place on bunker hill itself. I also didn't know that the British burned Charlestown. There are also other things I didn't know about, but those are the two big ones. Can't wait to see what else I didn't know.
Kelcey Daniels
ReplyDeleteAs almost every other person has already stated, Part Two of Rise to Rebellion is definitely has major turning points and really picks things up. What with the Continental Congress’s first meeting, the midnight ride of Paul Revere and the Battle of Breed’s Hill, this would certainly make the section the most exciting.
It was interesting to know what really went on and how certain people felt and acted at the first meeting of the Continental Congress. There were radicals and conservatives, some quiet and others outspoken. No one really knew what they wanted to accomplish or where the whole meeting was going, but it was a start. They of course accomplished more in later meetings, but I think a huge part of the first meeting was when there were rumors that the British destroyed Boston and everyone came together in a prayer. No matter what they believed in or who they were, they all joined together for their country.
I really like the perspective that Sharra writes. He doesn’t flat out say what each event is; you kind of have to figure that out for yourself. Such as when Paul Revere has his midnight ride to warn the townspeople that the British are coming. I also like how you get to know the colonists viewpoint along with the British viewpoint for each event.
I believe that the most memorable part of the section is the Battle of Breed’s Hill. It is not only memorable because it is the last chapter in the section, but also because of the insight it gives into the mind of Warren during the battle. The fact that he is a doctor makes the entire thing just a little bit messed up. He’s injuring people who he would normally be treating. This really shows how far people will go for Independence and what they believe is right.
I agree with Steve, that this book really describes things so that it feels like you’re there, and there is a lot of information that I didn’t know before about the American Revolution (ex: The British burning Charlestown).
Sarah Plummer
ReplyDeleteSection 2, Lions and Lambs, really got me excited to read more and more. Shaara outdid himself in this section by making it much more engaging and fast-moving than section 1. As I read Lions and Lambs, I often found myself relating back to a part in section 1. When Ben Franklin discovered how poorly the Irish lived and were being treated on his tour in Ireland, it made me believe that the author included that for a specific reason: to reveal exactly how the Americans and their rights were treated by the king.
In this section, I continue to hold the upmost respect for how Jeff Shaara wrote this book. The best aspect, in my opinion, is that you're not given just dry facts. Shaara includes the everyday lifestyle of the characters, which makes it much easier to connect to. For example, the very beginning of Lions and Lambs pulls at reader's heartstrings by explaining how Adams has to leave his family behind to travel to Boston. The detail of him unsuccessfully holding back his tears forces readers to consider how difficult it would be to be separated from their family for such a long time.
My favorite part in Lions and Lambs is Paul Revere's warning to Sam Adams and John Hancock. "The British are coming, the British are coming!" is such a well known piece of the Revolution's history. However, I never expected the excitement of Adam's and Hancock's escape. I also love the description Shaara includes of Paul Revere's ride: "As he (Revere) passed, each house roared to life...It took barely a minute, and with a last soft word, the men were out of their houses, moving into the road..." I love the visualization of each individual house's lights turning on in a row, and the huge crowd of men walking through the darkness towards Lexington.
TLH
The battles of Lexington and Concord were the largest turning points in section 2. Because of these battles, Congress' only rational choice was to seek independence. All other choices were eliminated from the drawing board, including asking the king for redemption. Seeking forgiveness would only put their process back even farther. Therefore, these battles were the true spark of the war.
Taking into perspective how each person felt at the time of the Revolution is difficult considering how long ago this war was. In the same token, the detail of these citizen's lives in Rise to Rebellion clarifies this for readers. Through their eyes, in my opinion, it would be extremely terrifying to never know for certain if you would reach independence or not. Moreover, it would be very unnerving to be a spouse of a soldier fighting the war. Not only would husband and wife not see each other for an extended period of time, but news travelled very slow during this time. The wives of the soldiers had to live months on end not knowing whether their husband was still alive.
Hannah Karlen
ReplyDeleteSo, I think it is rather evident that this section of the book was indeed the exact turning point and starting point for that matter. This being said I feel there were four or so events that should be pin-pointed.
-First and foremost I feel the need to talk about the Continental Congress. I was blown away at what I had always percieved them to be compared to what actually happened. Obviously, as we all know, they definately started off a little "shakey." In fact I hesitate in using the word "they" because every delgate had such differing opinions. You had the more moderate group who wanted to avoid war while other demanded war and said it was the only way. From everything I've always studied I have always pictured them being more together and in agreement. Not just agreement, but also all for breaking away from England, after all they were very upset about the actions against them so I was expecting more passion from them in the beginning. My view in that manner was furthered more by the conversation Sam had while speaking to John. He had me convinced of the idea that there were more people on the bandwagon for independence (which at this point maybe seemed a little radical but after the battles, not so much). So the delgates were more conservative than I expected. I really feel like the turning point came when Benjamin Franklin joined the Continental Congress. It seems as if the men came together and started making progress in the right direction at the second meeting.
-Another important, yet shorter event in this time period was Paul Revere's famous announcement that the "British are coming!" This was very essential in that it gave the colonist a forewarning and allowed them to somewhat prepare for what was coming. This important new avoided total annihilation.
Hannah Karlen continued...
ReplyDelete-Then we have the most famous battle of Lexington and Concord. This was a major turning point for the colonist because they had the element of suprise on their side against England. The colonial militia also faught extremely well out of pure passion and pent up anger and hatred from all they had been deprived of and forced into doing. I feel this created a lot more drive for them to do better. This was also a major event because it was the first battle where England was allowed to fight the colonists. Here is the first real showing of the formation of an army for the colonists-the minutemen
-And lastly, but possibly more importantly, was the Battle of Breed's Hill. Otherwise known as the Battle of Bunker Hill. This was a very key event at this time and Shaara did an outstanding job telling the events and giving descriptive details. I literally felt as if I myself were in the war and could feel and hear everything going around me, down to the littlest sweat dripping down my face. It was so intense and Shaara didn't stop short of keeping us on our toes. So fast paced and intense, the British did indeed win in that they conquered the hill. However the colonial militia showed great percervance and dedication when they faught till defeat which was essential when they shorted out on supplies and ending in a somewhat phrrhic victory. It is also important to realized the the British also faced many casualties and injuries at this point which probably added that sense of fear of the colonist actual power. This was an eye opener for both sides. The British realized that this small, inexperienced colonial army was not afraid to stand up and fight against a major force. On the other hand the colonist realized that British were going to fight in a eurpoean style which would in the end be hard to withstand.
-I really liked Kelcey's comment of how it was weird being in Warrens perpective viewing the war when he was actually a doctor. I feel like I did not really pick up on the irony to an extent but I agree with her in that it shows just to what extent and individual will go to fight for what they think is right. I know that Warren was most definately not the only example it this section.
Sarah Plummer
ReplyDeleteAlmost forgot to respond to Kelcey's blog!!!
Kelcey brought up a fabulous point about the Continental Congress' meeting. The fact that Shaara included the prayer at the end of the meeting was brilliant. Kelcey hit the nail right on the head: it didn't matter what these people's backgrounds were, or what they believed in. What mattered is that they were all there for the same reason: to support their cause, no matter what the cost.
Becca Bacon
ReplyDeleteSection 2, "Lions and Lambs," had two key ideas. The first key idea was the formation of the Continental Congress. Section 1 ended with, "the sharp voices of thirteen colonies coming together to speak as one." This quote was a preview of colonists sending delegates to Philadelphia for them to unite. The second key idea was the Battle on Breed's Hill. That was a major beginning battle between the the British and Americans. Just because the British ended up gaining the Charlestown Peninsula, the Americans should have won because they killed more British, but they ended up having to retreat. I agree with Kelcey that the Battle of Breed's Hill is memorable. It must of been difficult for Dr. Warren to fight his instinct of automatically helping the injured. Especially the soldiers he shot.
Change and Continuity: Instead of the Sons of Liberty just causing commotion, a real war has started. The colonists who want their independence have benefitted because they can fight for it. The decision of the British and Americans fighting have narrowed the choices for the loyalists or anyone else who is against fighting because they are now on two different sides of either being a colonist or going back to England and following the king's orders.
I really enjoyed section two of Rise to Rebellion. There were so many monumental things that occurred during this section, such as the different battles, and the meeting of the first continental congress, that really made this section come alive and keep me wanting to read on to find out what would happen next.
ReplyDeleteThe battle of Bunker Hill was a very important part in this section. Although in the end the Americans did lose to the British due to their lack of ammunition, it showed that the Americans really did have a shot at winning this war, and that their strong passion for the cause could project them to do so. But it also showed that their lack of supplies would end up hurting them in some ways.
The first Continental Congress was also a very important event. It showed that the Americans were not going to put up with the unfair things the British were imposing upon them, like the intolerable acts for example. And the second meeting really showed that America was in it to win it with the creation of the Continental Army and the Declaration of Independence.
I agree with Kelcey's insight about Warren in the battle of Breed's Hill. It really does show how far people will go for something they believe in, even if it goes against something they would normally do.
*The last post was from Dakota Rine.
ReplyDeleteTanner Jaglinski
ReplyDeleteSections 2 was a section that I saw to be the real heating up of the war between the Colonies and the British. The Battle at Lexington and Concord, the formation of the Continental Congress and the Battle of Breed's Hill just lead to more heated battles and arguments between the two a want for separation even greater. As the battles and stuff progressed in my mind I kept having mental images pop in my head from Mrs. Gajewski’s 8th grade class that taught us about much of this time period. I had planned on doing the battle that took place at Bunker Hill for my history day topic but after 2 weeks of researched realized that the topic didn’t really relate to the overall topic so I quit but that’s beside the point. I remember researching the back ground of the battle and now finally reading this gave me a whole new perspective of people who were actually there in a sense. As events from the story played out the Battle at Lexington and Concord was the first and seemed to send a statement to the British that the colonies are serious. While reading it almost seemed as if the colonist didn’t quite understand what got into the colonist because they were not prepared for an opposing for to be organized due to the fact that they were one of the best in the world at the time. Confidence built in the colonies and even general Gage seemed to question British power but I felt the most confidence came when a leader of the colonies military was named. I read that George Washington was placed into this position and thus later after victory became our country’s first president. As Dakota had stated in the previous post I also do believe that Battle of Bunker Hill was an important part of the war despite the defeat. Even though the colonies were not as prepared for the battle as they could have been, as he stated with the lack of ammunition, they had gain a great confidence that later lead to victories in the war.
Jena, you did a great job visualizing the scene with Warren! Great analysis of the importance of Breed's Hill Battle.
ReplyDeletePafoua Yang
ReplyDeleteSection 2 as I and most of the other students agree that this was the highest peak in the book, it brought a lot of attention to the audience. As I was reading this i thought about our politics nowadays compared to theirs. The democrats and republicans reminded me much of the continental congress, there was always two sides and one always had a disagreement such as whether they wanted to forgive the kind or to act upon him. I felt as though war was about the only action that could fold the solution up. Because of so much conflicts and disagreements with one another.
The Battle of Bunker hill brought an insight to me and it was that one voice could represent and stand for many other voices; it could be the voice to influence one another and to come together to conclude. A man named Rafe Johnson told Dr. Warren that because of him, his writing he had come to the hill to fight.
With what Tanner said about both battle of breeds hill and the battle of Lexington and concord causing more arguments and heated battles making the strive to separation was even harder.
Zachary Schneider
ReplyDeleteIn the second section of the book, The conflicts kept getting worse as the battles of Lexington and concord. My favourite battle of this section was the Battle of Bunker Hill. Even though we may have lost the hill we did more to weaken the British. This battle also proved the fact that this war was not a matter of number but it was a matter of wits and who wanted it more.
The Continental Congress was extremely important as it showed that the Americans were tired of Parliment and wanted their own form of government. Their second gathering was the most important because it was the meeting that created the Decleration of Independence and the Continental Army.
The choices that the colonists made would eventually lead them to their independece even though that was in 1783. The turning points in this war come from the colonists wanting their own country more than the British want the colonies.
I agree with Steve's post, that this book really describes the events so that it feels like you are actually witnessing them,and there is a lot of information that I didn’t know before about the American Revolution. For example the Congression meetings lasted so long.