- Based on the arguments found in both readings, its clear that the constitution was written by the capitalist class of America. This can be seen because of how strongly it excluded any of the working class from voting and participating in most processes. The requirements for voting were very steep and in some areas required a high valuation and ownership of property; effectively blocking out a majority of the population. As a result, more then 90% of people were left without the power to vote due to these unattainable standards put upon them.
- I would say that the social class structure of early United States of America are very similar if not the same, as how they are today. The reason I believe this to be is because the capitalist still have a firm controlling power in the way the government works. Ultimately, the government still conducts itself im a way which has the best in mind for the rich. The capitalist group is often able to influence changes in state and national laws allowing them to maintain their wealth. Although the working class has gained some powers in finding a voice, the capitalist still maintain a large majority of the wealth which in part is thanks to the government protection.
- The people who wrote the Constitution were afraid of ‘democracy’ because they wanted to keep what they had in their land and power. By creating a democracy, they were be giving power away to the working class who they believed were not capable of making the proper decisions. A democracy would certainly lead to the field becoming more leveled which meant that the capitalist’s would end up losing money and their status compared to the working class. Because of this, they shifted away from any possibility of a democracy.
2 thoughts on “Discussion Board 6.1 – Hector Lopez”
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.
Hello Hector, I agree with you, for voting in early America, one had to be a man, landowner and white, therefore, election votes were limited to men with property. Such as women, black people Native Americans and people without property were barred from voting. The writers of the constitution became afraid of democracy because of the overwhelming powers given to the majority, especially the lower classes, were viewed as leading to more instabilities, which were likely to pose serious threats to the wealthy class.
Hi Hector. I just got done reading your responses to the Questions for Discussion Board 6.1 and I have to say that you did a great job on it! The requirements for voting effectively left out a large majority of people who were living in America, since it was required to own a form of property in order to vote, which was something that most people in America couldn’t have access to due to the wealthy preventing them from doing so. I do agree that the social class within early America is similar to how it is today, just not as severe. It is unfortunate that the government frames things as if the working class has a strong form of power, since ultimately, it is the wealthy that usually get the final say on laws. If democracy was something that was truely available in America, the wealthy would’ve gotten overrun by the working class due to the sheer number difference between the two classes. Well done on your answers!