Chapter 4

In this chapter I read about the rise of Colonial Elites. In this era the Elites were of course white males who were large planters, farmers, attorneys, or clergy men. What caught my attention was in the 1700’s class structure was invisible because usually in society class structure is what define and categorized the rich from the poor. However after 1720 the display of wealth increased (didn’t surprise me). The wealthy men displayed their wealth by their fashion (happens today), carriages, books and furniture. What surprised me was the “less fortunate” weren’t that less fortunate. They had modest homes and wood frame houses. Unlike today the less fortunate barely owned their own houses let alone can pay their bills. The colonial politics was another interesting event to read because they had many rules to live by. In order to “qualify” to vote they had to be white males women, blacks and Indians weren’t allowed to vote. (of course the minority ) what I found shocking was in 7 colonies voters had to own land and when voting did happen the Governors called elections randomly. That to me is unfair and is very sneaky because the people who weren’t notified to vote are the people who lived in rural areas because the voting place took place in the county seat. (Long distance to travel for those who lived far out) the whole process of votes and running election was very different than today’s society. For example the voters stated their votes face to face often with the candidates. Today it is very private and inclusive. Also the people running nominated themselves and usually ran based on their reputation not on the issues. This is very different from our society today and I am glad it changed because back then it was very unfair and surreal to believe that the candidates basically had all the power. What was the purpose of voters (back then) anyway?

The Enlightenment era was fascinating to read about because it encouraged people to search for answers. Ask questions and be involved in the natural world. Of course it raised a red flag for the church. People challenged the beliefs of the church and questioned the church. This is when the Deists came to be. I have never heard of this group before but they believed that the universe operated by natural law. In this section the women gained more freedom, they gained religious freedom. They were able (or had the right) to vote and speak in church meetings. This was a big step for women since we all know they were seen as little minded people.