US History I Touchstone 4
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Southern University at Shreveport *
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1
Subject
History
Date
Apr 3, 2024
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docx
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7
Uploaded by 13destinygay
Name: Date: 2/20/24
US History I Touchstone 4: Analyzing Primary Sources Template
Complete the following template, including all parts, for each primary source you chose from the Touchstone 4: Primary Source List. Fill
out all cells using complete sentences.
Part 1: Meet the Primary
Source
Primary Source 1 Primary Source 2
Write the title of the
primary source from the Touchstone 4: Primary Source List, and paste the web link here. NOTE: Submissions that discuss primary sources that are not on the provided
list will be returned ungraded.
Deposition of Captain John Parker Concerning the Battle at Lexington: https://www.docsteach.org/documents/document/john-
parker-lexington
George Washington’s First Inaugural Address: https://www.docsteach.org/documents/document/washi
ngton-first-inaugural
What type of primary source is this?
(T
ypes could include a letter, Court Transcript
Speech
speech, court transcript, legislation, diary entry, photograph, artifact, map, broadside, circular,
political cartoon, artwork, etc.)
Provide a brief description of something you notice about the source, as if you were explaining to someone who can’t
see it.
The source appears to be a transcription of a sworn statement given by John Parker, the commander of the
militia in Lexington, on April 25th, 1775. The text has a formal structure, starting with the deposition and then a
certification by Nathaniel Gorham, a notary public, confirming the validity of the deposition and the authority of the justices. The language in the document
is formal and legalistic, as was common in writings from the 18th century. The text describes the events of
the Battle at Lexington, focusing on Parker's account of the British troops' arrival and the ensuing confrontation with his militia, which led to casualties.
This text appears to be a speech delivered by George Washington to the Senate and House of Representatives. It seems to be a printed copy of the speech rather than a handwritten manuscript. The writing style is formal and elegant, reminiscent of 18th-
century speeches. The speech starts with Washington sharing his worries and sense of responsibility when asked to serve as president, then goes on to discuss the importance of freedom and the duties of government. The passage concludes with a prayer for divine guidance and blessings for the new government.
Part 2: Observe its Parts
Primary Source 1 Primary Source 2
Who wrote it or created it? Was it one person, or was it a group, like
an organization? it appears to have been written or dictated by John Parker himself, as it is his sworn testimony recounting the events of the Battle at Lexington.
it was written by George Washington
When was it made?
made on April 25th, 1775 April 30th, 1789
What are two things you know about the personal
background or beliefs of the person or group who created it? (4-
5 sentences)
During the American Revolutionary War, Captain John Parker led the militia in Lexington. He was recognized for his strong patriotism and dedication to protecting the colonies' rights from British tyranny. Parker's deposition highlights his leadership in the colonial resistance movement, detailing the events at the Battle of Lexington and the militia's response to the British troops.
George Washington played a crucial role in the American Revolutionary War and was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. He was recognized for his strong leadership, unwavering integrity, and dedication to the values of freedom and self-rule. Washington's address showcases his humility, sense of duty, and belief in divine providence. He shares his concerns about taking on the presidency
and his optimism for the new government's success.
Was the source meant to be public
or private? If public, who do you
think was the intended audience? (4-5 sentences)
The Battle at Lexington was probably meant to be public, as it stands as a sworn testimony about a significant event in American history—the Battle at Lexington. The target audience would have included the wider community, other colonial leaders, citizens, and possibly even British authorities. The goal was to present the events from Parker's point of view and to emphasize the colonists' complaints against British actions. It might have also inspired more resistance against British oppression.
Address was also intended to be public, as it was delivered as a speech during his inauguration ceremony. The primary audience would have been members of the Senate, House of Representatives, other government officials, and the general public who were present at the inauguration. However, given the significance of the occasion and the themes addressed
in the speech, it was likely meant to resonate with a broader audience, including citizens across the newly formed United States, as Washington sought to unify the nation under the new government and reassure them of his commitment to their well-being.
Part 3: Interpret its
Meaning:
Historical
Primary Source 1 Primary Source 2
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