American Freedom

Everyday in my United States History class at school, I learn more and more about the people that have came before me and fought for their rights. Since the beginning of American history, the people have been in a constant struggle for independence. It started when the puritans, as they struggled for their independence from England, founded Jamestown in the early 1600s or even when the United States was split during the Civil War as they were fighting for the freedom of slaves. Freedom is a reoccuring battle in the United States. I find our independence to be the most important ideal to our country and that it is important to work to preserve freedom for future generations.

Freedom is important to me because it allows me to act freely. In 1775, at the Virginia Convention, Patrick Henry yelled “Give me liberty, or give me death!” as the people of early America fought for their independence from England. This made me realize how crucial it was to be under the strict control of another nation. The early Americans strived for their freedoms, to such a large extent, that the people were willing to leave England and establish a new life in a new land. The people of early America were the founders of freedom. They make me truly appreciate the independence I have that they had to struggled for. Women also demanded their rights during the Seneca Falls Convention in 1848. During this convention the historic document, the ‘Declaration of Sentiments’ was written. In the document, women demanded equal social status and legal rights, such as voting. These women were not afraid to ask and demand their freedom even when others would not listen. I admire these women’s bravery and they inspire me to stand up for what is right. I know that these women were not afraid to demand what they wanted and that I, too, can stand up for others who need it. Freedom is a basic right in the United States, but many still do not have the same equality. It is important for every citizen to have the independence they deserve.

The United States has come a long way in bringing freedom for the citizens who previously did not. It is important for all people are able to have individual rights that have been promised by the nation. We, as a country, must work together to insure equality for everyone. Abraham Lincoln stated that “America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves.” Lincoln tell us, as a nation, that the only way for Americans to lose their freedoms is if we, as in the people of America, destroy it ourselves. This means that as a nation the people must include everyone and move on from the past. It is the time now to show equality to all people no matter what race, identity, or gender. All of these people are citizens of the United States and deserve the freedoms that everyone else has. I think that we can work now to accept everyone, no matter what, and guarantee freedom for future generations. Afterall, we are all Americans.

Every morning, right before school starts, I say the Pledge of Allegiance and it is a reminder to me of the rights and freedoms that I have in this country. It gives me hope that someday everyone will have equal independence; no matter who they are or what they believe in. It is important that our nation works to constantly move forward and keep our independence for future generations to come. I treasure the freedom that I have always been able to live with. It is the way that life should be for everyone and is what America has been built on.