The essay was sponsored by James Thomas Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution, under the direction of Donna Krantz, history and government teacher. Mrs. Krantz forwarded the essay to Margaret E. Martin, State DAR Good Citizen Chairman. The winner of the contest on the state level will be forwarded to East Central Division for judging, And the winner there will be sent to national for judging.)
Hanna’s essay reads as follows:
"Our American Heritage and Our Responsibility for Preserving It"
When you think of American heritage, you generally think back to the colonists defeating the British in the Revolutionary War and thus breaking their ties to their “Mother Country” … Great Britain. From this legendary triumph, not only did the colonists obtain their desired freedom from Britain, they also brought an end to the system of mercantilism and opened the door to a new economic system known as capitalism.
This allowed Americans to break from their bondage that chained them to the all powerful British trade, and pursue a life where they themselves could have control both over their government and their economy. Due to these heroic efforts by those who fought for our independence and constructed our Declaration of Independence, we as Americans should be indebted for the blood that was shed for its formation and protection.
Why shouldn’t we as Americans take pride in our country and work to preserve the document that serves as its foundation … the Constitution? This document stands as the oldest written Constitution in the world. The very core of our government is so unique in the fact that it is able to stand the test of time and adjust to our country’s current needs.
These timeless words formulated by our wise and noble forefathers have made America’s systems of democracy and capitalism some of the most powerful and influential in the world. Their success has most definitely made our country one of the most respected and sought after forms of government around the globe.
With the weight of our founders’ knowledge on our shoulders, we should unite to support their courageous act and to preserve our independence no matter what the cost. It is up to every state official, congressman, cabinet member, military officer, and we the people to protect and uphold this American heritage from anyone who should try to snatch it away.
How can we continue this protection you ask? We as citizens ensure protection through performing our civic duties, such as voting in state and national elections and staying informed on key issues. We should serve our country by joining the military, and our community through community service to those who may be less fortunate than us. Also, we should protect ourselves by obeying the laws of the land and by paying taxes to allow for the general welfare of all Americans.
In conclusion, it is no secret that our foundations of capitalism and democracy have made America what it is today, a powerful and well respected nation. Our government is desired by many as millions of immigrants have flocked to our nation in search of its benefits. It is due to the brave men and women that serve in our armed forces all over the world that we may be entitled to such benefits. In turn, it is our utmost responsibility to honor these selfless efforts by respecting our Constitution and by giving back to others through community service, so that all Americans in years to come may experience these same opportunities.
