Positive Effects Of American Exceptionalism

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Exceptionalism of a country is the idea that it holds different, more ethical decisions, than all the other countries through time. Some believe the great experiment of america is one of these great exceptions. However, slavery, the industrial revolution, and the expansion of the federal government have all threatened this idea of greatness.
Although it was quite necessary to establish a strong central government in the 18th century, this also created discourse with the American people and threatened the idea of American Exceptionalism. In lieu of the articles of confederation, that gave no solution for a number of issues such as taxation, border disputes, and organizing war, the Constitution was established granting more power to the federal government. However, this shift in …show more content…

The industrial revolution presented positive effects on the availability of manufactured goods and also enabled women to have means of earning money. However, the god complex that many of the business owners attained proved to threaten the rights of the workers. The workers became dependent on the factories to sustain themselves which created a life of subservience in relationship with the owners of the factories. When dependencies arise, those in power can virtually do as they would like without restraints. For example, the Lowell mill girls could not participate in dance classes because of the factory owners views. Those in the book titled Sam Patch, had no control over so much as the hour in which they consumed their lunch. This was a clear infringement on the personal rights and liberties of the workers and threatened american exceptionalism. However, individuals like Sam Patch fought back by jumping off waterfalls and organizing into unions. Large masses of people would gather and riot until lunch hours were restored. Soon, laws would be passed to protect the workers

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