as a student of american history, 1492-1865, you now know that the past is never really past. People, ideas, events, and forces from the past impinge and transform our lives even in the 21st century. Analyze SIX of the most important legacies that come fr

Six Important Legacies in American History

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Six Important Legacies in American History

Six Important Legacies in American History

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British author George Orwell said it best : Who controls the past controls the future ‘ For these six people – George Washington , Thomas Jefferson , Benjamin Franklin , Abraham Lincoln , Ulysses Grant and Benjamin Banneker – making simple decisions in the past led to a whole new 21st century America

George Washington , after leading the Continental Army in the Revolutionary War with Britain , became the first president of the United States of America [banner_entry_middle]

. Not many are aware of his strategic capabilities during the war , which allowed the United States to claim victory . He laid down a number of standards in the government and the presidency which are still abided by today . He was also one of the pioneers of the 1787 United States Constitution , and established the Executive branch of government and the US Cabinet . He aided in the development of the national treasury by establishing a national bank and a tax system During his time , he was the epitome of republicanism . He averted the involvement of the United States in any foreign conflict via his Neutrality Proclamation . Presently , the 22nd Amendment of the US Constitution states that no president can serve for more than two terms which was based on George Washington ‘s refusal to serve a third term

Benjamin Franklin was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States of America . Being a prominent figure in science , he invented devices still used today , such as the lightning rod , bifocals and the urinary catheter , among other things . He also deduced several scientific principles that have greatly influenced meteorology and the food industry . He also developed the first fire department and public library in the country . Aside from his scientific contributions , he was also a politician , serving as a Minister to France in the American Revolution By acquiring the support of

Six Important Legacies in American History

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France during the war , he ensured the victory of America over Britain in the Revolutionary War , ad ascertained US independence

Thomas Jefferson , one of the Founding Fathers , was the third president of the United States of America . He was one of the authors of the Declaration of Independence , which , up to now , is instilled in every American . During his term , the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark Expedition were set . He promoted separation of church and state and prohibited external slave trade , which were major steps towards democracy in the country

Benjamin Banneker was an African-American astronomer and mathematician He started studying astronomy during his 5th decade of life , and was able to successfully predict eclipses . He was one of the main proponents of racial equality during his time , appealing for termination of racial discrimination and promoting the rights of African-Americans . His efforts were succeeded by other African-Americans , including Martin Luther King , Jr

Abraham Lincoln was the 16th President of the United States of America He ended slavery in America via the Emancipation Proclamation and… [banner_entry_footer]