Our Founding Fathers were not career politicians. They were the outlaws; the “angry extremists” who refused to quietly submit to an elite political establishment’s oppressive rule over their lives.
Never forget that!
Tag: American History
George Washington: The Original Christian Nationalist
“Give me liberty, or give me death!” Patrick Henry’s famous words echoed through the halls of history, but they were not the only rallying cry that fueled the American Revolution. Behind the scenes, another force was at work: Christian Nationalism. And at the forefront of this movement was George Washington, the first President of the United States.
What Christian Nationalism Is
Christian Nationalism is a political ideology that combines Christianity with national identity. It is characterized by the belief that America was founded as a Christian nation and that the Christian faith should play a central role in shaping the country’s laws, culture, and politics. Some believe that Christian Nationalism is a positive force that unites the country under shared values, while others argue that it is a divisive and exclusionary movement that marginalizes religious minorities.
George Washington, the first President of the United States, can be considered the original Christian Nationalist. He was a devout Anglican, and his faith played a significant role in his life and political career. Washington’s speeches and writings are filled with references to God and the divine providence that guided the American Revolution.
How Washington’s faith influenced his leadership and decisions
In his inaugural address, Washington declared, “No people can be bound to acknowledge and adore the Invisible Hand which conducts the affairs of men more than those of the United States.” This statement reflects his belief in God’s guidance and the importance of faith in shaping the nation’s destiny.
Washington’s leadership also drew from his Christian values. He famously said, “I walk on untrodden ground. There is scarcely any part of my conduct which may not hereafter be drawn in precedent.” This quote demonstrates his commitment to setting a good example for future generations, a value that is deeply rooted in Christian teachings.
The influence of Christian Nationalism on the founding
The influence of Christian Nationalism can be seen in the founding documents of the United States. The Declaration of Independence, for example, refers to “the Laws of Nature and of Nature’s God,” and the Constitution mentions “the Year of our Lord” to indicate the date of its adoption.
Moreover, many of the founding fathers were devout Christians, and their faith played a significant role in shaping the country’s values and principles. This is evident in the First Amendment, which guarantees religious freedom, and in the emphasis on liberty and individual rights that is central to the American political system.
Christian Nationalism and its role in modern politics
While Christian Nationalism has played an important role in American history, its influence in modern politics is a subject of debate. Some argue that it is a positive force that unites the country under shared values, while others worry that it is a divisive and exclusionary movement that marginalizes religious minorities.
The key to understanding the role of Christian Nationalism in modern politics lies in the balance between religious freedom and the separation of church and state. The First Amendment to the United States Constitution guarantees that “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” This principle is essential to maintaining a diverse and inclusive society that respects the rights of all individuals, regardless of their religious beliefs.
Final Thoughts
George Washington was the original Christian Nationalist. His faith played a significant role in shaping his leadership and decisions, and his legacy continues to influence American politics to this day. As we grapple with the role of Christian Nationalism in modern society, it is essential to remember the lessons of history and the importance of maintaining a balance between religious freedom and the separation of church and state. By understanding our past, we can better navigate the challenges of the present and work towards a more united and inclusive future.
George Washington Praying at Valley Forge Art Print
How Cats Saved Lives and Lifted Spirits in the Trenches of WWI
World War I was a brutal and bloody conflict that claimed millions of lives and left countless scars on the survivors. The soldiers who fought in the trenches faced unimaginable horrors: constant shelling, poison gas, disease, hunger, and rats.
But amid the darkness and despair, there was a glimmer of hope and comfort: cats. These furry friends served as loyal companions, brave hunters, and even life-saving detectors. In this article, we’ll explore how cats became the heroes and mascots of WWI.
Cats as Rodent Hunters
One of the biggest problems in the trenches was the infestation of rats and mice. These rodents fed on the corpses and food supplies, spread infections, and gnawed on the equipment and wires. They also tormented the soldiers with their squeaking and biting.
To combat this menace, the military deployed an estimated 500,000 cats to the front lines. These cats were trained or adopted by the soldiers, who provided them with food, water, and shelter. The cats, in turn, hunted down the rodents and kept them at bay.
The cats were so effective that they were sometimes rewarded with medals or promotions. For example, a black cat named Pepper was promoted to corporal by the Canadian troops for his outstanding service. Another cat, named Tom, received the Blue Cross medal for killing 300 rats in a single week.
Cats as Gas Detectors
Another danger that the soldiers faced was the use of chemical weapons, such as chlorine and mustard gas. These gases could cause severe damage to the lungs, eyes, and skin, and often resulted in death. The soldiers had to wear gas masks to protect themselves, but they were not always available or reliable.
That’s where the cats came in handy. Cats have a more sensitive respiratory system than humans, and they can detect the presence of gas before it becomes lethal. The soldiers would watch the cats for signs of distress, such as coughing, sneezing, or running away. If they saw the cats reacting, they would quickly put on their masks or seek cover.
Some cats even saved their owners’ lives by alerting them to gas attacks. One such cat was Pitouchi, who belonged to a Belgian soldier named Lieutenant Lekeux. Pitouchi was born in the trenches and stayed with Lekeux throughout the war. One day, Lekeux was hiding in a shell hole, sketching the enemy’s positions, when a German patrol spotted him. Pitouchi, who was scared by the noise, jumped out of the hole and drew the Germans’ attention. They fired two shots at him, but missed. Pitouchi then jumped back into the hole with Lekeux, who realized that the Germans had mistaken him for a rat. The Germans laughed and moved on, leaving Lekeux and Pitouchi unharmed.
Cats as Mascots and Pets
Beyond their practical roles, cats also served as symbols of hope and joy for the soldiers. The cats offered the soldiers a sense of companionship and normalcy in the midst of chaos and violence. The soldiers would pet, play, and cuddle with the cats, and share their rations and stories with them. The cats helped the soldiers cope with the stress and loneliness of war.
Many cats became the mascots of their units, and were given names, collars, and uniforms. Some cats even traveled across the battlefields with their owners, riding on their shoulders, helmets, or backpacks. The cats boosted the morale and spirit of the troops, and were often featured in photographs, letters, and newspapers.
Some cats also served as messengers of peace and friendship between the warring sides. During the famous Christmas Truce of 1914, when the soldiers from both sides exchanged greetings and gifts, some of them also tied messages around the cats’ collars and sent them across the no man’s land. The messages expressed their hopes for an end to the war and a better future.
Conclusion
Cats were more than just animals in WWI. They were heroes, friends, and allies. They helped the soldiers survive and endure the hardships of war, and they also brought them happiness and warmth. Cats were the perfect companions in the trenches of WWI.
The Last Day of George Washington
George Washington was one of the most influential figures in American history. He led the Continental Army to victory in the Revolutionary War, presided over the Constitutional Convention, and served as the first President of the United States. He is widely revered as the “Father of the Nation” and a symbol of courage, wisdom, and integrity.
But how did this remarkable man die? What were the events and causes that led to his demise? And what can we learn from his final hours?
In this article, we will explore the last day of George Washington, and how he succumbed to a throat infection that proved fatal in a matter of hours.
The Morning Ride
On Thursday, December 12, 1799, George Washington was out on horseback supervising farming activities on his estate at Mount Vernon, Virginia. He was 67 years old, and had retired from public life two years earlier. He enjoyed spending time on his plantation, overseeing the work of his slaves and managing his crops and livestock.
The weather that day was cold and wet, with light snow, hail, and rain. Washington rode for about five hours, from late morning until three in the afternoon. He was wearing his usual riding clothes, which consisted of a woolen coat, a waistcoat, breeches, boots, and a hat. He did not wear a scarf or a cloak, as he was accustomed to the cold.
When he returned to his mansion, he was soaked and shivering. His wife, Martha, suggested that he change out of his wet clothes before dinner, but Washington refused. He was known for his punctuality, and did not want to keep his guests waiting. He also did not think much of his exposure to the elements, as he had endured harsher conditions during his military campaigns.
He ate his dinner as usual, and then spent the evening reading the newspapers with his secretary, Tobias Lear, and his wife. He also wrote some letters and attended to some business matters. He seemed to be in good spirits, and did not complain of any discomfort.
The Sore Throat
However, around two in the morning, Washington woke up with a sore throat. He felt a sharp pain whenever he swallowed, and had difficulty breathing and speaking. He told his wife that he was very sick, and asked her to bring him some honey and vinegar to soothe his throat. Martha was alarmed by his condition, and wanted to send for a doctor, but Washington stopped her. He did not want to expose her to the cold, as she had just recovered from a cold herself.
He tried to go back to sleep, but his symptoms worsened. He became restless and agitated, and could not find a comfortable position. He also developed a fever and a cough, and started to sweat profusely.
At daybreak, Martha sent for Tobias Lear, who rushed to the room. He found Washington in bed, gasping for air and barely able to speak. He immediately sent for George Rawlins, an overseer at Mount Vernon, who had some experience in bloodletting. Washington believed that bloodletting was an effective remedy for many ailments, and requested that Rawlins bleed him. Lear also sent for Dr. James Craik, Washington’s family doctor and trusted friend for forty years, who lived in Alexandria, about 10 miles away.
Rawlins arrived first, and extracted about half a pint of blood from Washington’s arm. Washington felt some relief, but it was short-lived. He asked to be bled again, but Martha and Lear objected. They were worried that he would lose too much blood, and weaken his already frail body.
The Doctors Arrive
Dr. Craik arrived around nine in the morning, and examined Washington. He diagnosed him with “cynanche trachealis”, also known as the croup, an inflammation of the throat that obstructed the airway. He bled him a second time, and applied a blister to his throat, hoping to draw out the infection. He also ordered a solution of vinegar and sage tea to be prepared for gargling.
However, none of these treatments helped. Washington’s condition continued to deteriorate, and he became more and more suffocated. He could not swallow the vinegar and tea, and almost choked when he tried. He also could not tolerate the blister, and asked to have it removed.
Martha, seeing that Craik was at a loss, requested that he send for another doctor. Craik agreed, and sent for Dr. Gustavus Brown, a physician from Port Tobacco, Maryland, who had a reputation for diagnosis and moderate medicating. Craik also sent for a third doctor, Dr. Elisha Cullen Dick, a young and innovative surgeon from Alexandria. He hoped that one of them would have a better idea of how to treat Washington’s illness.
Dr. Brown arrived around three in the afternoon, and Dr. Dick shortly after. They consulted with Craik, and agreed that Washington had a severe case of quinsy, or tonsillitis, that had spread to his larynx and trachea. They decided to try another round of bloodletting, hoping to reduce the inflammation and ease the pressure on his throat. They also administered an enema, and applied more blisters to his chest and feet.
Washington consented to these procedures, but they had no effect. He lost about four pints of blood in total, or about 40 percent of his blood volume. He became weaker and paler, and his pulse grew fainter and irregular. He realized that he was dying, and asked for his will. He made some minor changes to it, and gave it to Lear. He also gave some instructions about his funeral, and asked to be buried in the family vault at Mount Vernon.
The Final Moments
As the sun set, Washington’s breathing became more labored and noisy. He was in great pain, and could hardly speak. He whispered to Lear, “I am just going. Have me decently buried; and do not let my body be put into the vault less than three days after I am dead.” He then asked, “Do you understand me?” Lear replied, “Yes, sir.” Washington said, “Tis well.”
He then closed his eyes, and remained silent for a while. He opened them again, and looked at the doctors. He said, “Doctor, I die hard; but I am not afraid to go.” He then looked at Lear, and said, “I thank you for your attentions; but I pray you to take no more trouble about me. Let me go off quietly. I cannot last long.”
He then uttered his last words, “Tis well.” He tried to lift his hand to his face, but it fell back. He breathed his last at 10:20 in the evening, on Saturday, December 14, 1799.
Martha, who was sitting at the foot of the bed, said, “Tis well. All is now over. I shall soon follow him. I have no more trials to pass through.”
The doctors confirmed his death, and left the room. Lear stayed with Martha, and tried to comfort her. He also sent a letter to Congress, informing them of the sad news.
The Aftermath
The news of Washington’s death spread quickly, and caused a wave of grief and mourning throughout the nation. He was widely honored and celebrated as a hero, a patriot, and a statesman. His funeral was held on December 18, at Mount Vernon, and was attended by thousands of people, including many dignitaries and military officers. His body was placed in a lead coffin, and then in a wooden one, and then in a brick vault. A simple inscription on the vault read, “I am the Resurrection and the Life.”
The cause of Washington’s death has been debated by historians and medical experts for over two centuries. Some have suggested that he died from diphtheria, pneumonia, strep throat, or epiglottitis. Some have also argued that the treatments he received, especially the bloodletting, hastened his death, rather than helped him.
However, the exact diagnosis and the role of the doctors remain uncertain. What is certain is that Washington died from a throat infection that was common and treatable in his time, but that proved fatal in his case. He died as he lived, with dignity, courage, and grace.
Final Thoughts
George Washington was a remarkable man, who played a crucial role in the founding and shaping of the United States. He was admired and respected by his contemporaries, and by generations of Americans. He left behind a legacy of leadership, service, and virtue, that continues to inspire and guide us today.
His death was a tragic and unexpected event, that shocked and saddened the nation. He died from a throat infection that was caused by his exposure to the cold and wet weather, and that was aggravated by the treatments he received. He died in his bed, surrounded by his wife, his secretary, and his doctors. He died peacefully, and with faith.
He died as the Father of the Nation, and as a friend of mankind.
The Incredible Turbine Engine: Running Cars on Unconventional Fuels
In the fascinating world of automotive innovation, there have been numerous breakthroughs that have pushed the boundaries of what we thought was possible. One such innovation took place in the 1950s and 1960s, when car manufacturers developed a turbine engine that had the remarkable ability to run on any type of fuel without requiring any modifications. To demonstrate this incredible feat, these cars were driven to different countries, powered by unconventional fuels such as tequila in Mexico and even Chanel No. 5 perfume in France. Let us look into this captivating era of automotive history and explore the development and achievements of these turbine engines.
The Turbine Engine: A Revolutionary Concept
At its core, the turbine engine is a type of internal combustion engine that operates on the principle of extracting energy from the flow of gases. Unlike conventional piston engines that rely on the reciprocating motion of pistons, turbine engines utilize a rotary design, harnessing the power of a rapidly spinning turbine to generate power. This design offers several advantages, including a high power-to-weight ratio, simplicity, and the ability to run on a wide variety of fuels.
Running on Any Type of Fuel
One of the most remarkable aspects of the turbine engine developed in the 1950s and 1960s was its adaptability to different types of fuel. Unlike traditional engines that require specific fuel types or modifications to run properly, these turbine engines were designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of fuels. This versatility opened up new possibilities for exploration and experimentation.
The Tequila-Powered Journey to Mexico
To showcase the turbine engine’s incredible flexibility, a daring and unconventional journey was undertaken. A turbine-powered car embarked on a memorable road trip to Mexico, fueled by an unexpected source: tequila. This bold demonstration captured the imagination of car enthusiasts and the public alike. By using tequila as fuel, the manufacturers proved that their turbine engine could run efficiently and effectively on unconventional sources of energy.
The Pioneering Journey to France: Powered by Chanel No. 5
Following the success of the tequila-powered adventure, the turbine engine’s capabilities were further highlighted with another audacious endeavor. This time, the destination was France, and the fuel of choice was none other than Chanel No. 5 perfume. This unexpected choice of fuel showcased the engine’s remarkable ability to run on even the most unconventional substances. The car’s journey through the streets of France, powered by the iconic fragrance, captivated the attention of people worldwide, making it an unforgettable moment in automotive history.
The Legacy and Impact
While the turbine engine’s ability to run on any fuel without modification was undeniably impressive, challenges remained that prevented its widespread adoption. Issues such as high fuel consumption and relatively low efficiency limited its practicality for everyday use. Additionally, the refinement of piston engines and the subsequent advancements in fuel efficiency and emissions control diverted attention from further developing turbine engines for mainstream applications.
Nonetheless, the pioneering work carried out by car manufacturers during the 1950s and 1960s laid the groundwork for future advancements in engine technology. The turbine engine’s adaptability to different fuel sources inspired researchers and engineers to explore alternative energy solutions, leading to the development of more efficient and environmentally friendly engines in the years that followed.
Conclusion
The 1950s and 1960s marked a period of remarkable innovation in the automotive industry. During this time, car manufacturers developed turbine engines capable of running on any type of fuel without requiring modification. These engines astounded the world as cars powered by unconventional sources like tequila and Chanel No. 5 perfume embarked on incredible journeys. While the turbine engine’s practicality for everyday use was limited, its legacy lives on as a testament to human ingenuity and the pursuit of engineering excellence. The pioneering spirit of this era continues to inspire future advancements in automotive technology, driving us towards a more sustainable and efficient future.
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