3.3.2

Class Overview

  • Focus on discussing the wealthy class and their societal obligations

  • Emphasis on philanthropic responsibility of the wealthy

Concept of Patricians

  • Historical reference to the patrician class in Ancient Rome

    • Defined as the wealthy elite responsible for societal benefits

  • Modern parallels observed in philanthropic efforts by wealthy individuals today

    • Example: Andrew Carnegie's contributions (e.g., Carnegie Hall)

    • Noteworthy institutions in NYC: The Morgan Library, The Frick Collection, Rockefeller Center

Government and Philanthropy

  • Discussion on reducing government involvement in favor of market freedom

    • Advocated by figures like Donald Trump

  • Concerns regarding the emergence of monopolies and trusts

    • Monopolies could lead to market failures and lack of competition

American Expansion and Frontier Thesis

  • Reference to Frederick Jackson Turner and the Frontier Thesis

    • Notion that American expansion served as a safety valve for societal tensions and provided opportunities for renewal

  • Shift in the late nineteenth century:

    • America reached its expansion limits, creating fear and anxiety about stagnation

    • Need for new opportunities and expansion beyond American borders

Jingoism and Imperialism

  • The rise of jingoism: aggressive patriotism leading to potential conflict

  • Historical context: Purchase of Alaska by William H. Seward

    • Initial perception of purchase as a mistake (labeled "Seward's Folly") due to cost and perceived lack of value

    • Discovery of natural resources (oil and gold) later justified the purchase

Prohibition Era Context

  • Growing prohibitionist sentiment in America

    • Association of alcoholism with specific immigrant groups, particularly Irish and German immigrants

  • Political landscape:

    • Republicans (GOP) and Southern Democrats manifested differing views on regulation of alcohol

Personal Anecdotes

  • Mention of family connections and personal interests in historical narratives

    • Family stories adding human element to historical discussions

    • Example of an individual's grandfather's historical interest and interaction with cultural artifacts