Taking a break from our usual topic of discussion, I want to discuss my potential ideas for the Issue Brief Project for this blog post. I have three options, however, the door is always open to explore a different perspective on the topic, or an alternative pathway altogether.  

1. My first topic is on the implementation of drug-addiction treatments within the criminal system. Despite it being decades later, the Nixon and Regan-era Drug Crime Laws continue to dictate what occurs within our government and justice system in regards to the criminalization of all drugs and the severe punishments which follow. After looking into research, it is evident to notice how prisons in the United States have seen an increasingly large number of individuals who suffer from drug addiction, yet few prisons provide any treatment or help. The population most at risk for fatalities involving “opioid-related overdoses” are those who are currently incarcerated or were recently released. Yet, ironically, they are also the population with the least amount of access to any type of treatment option. Through my paper, I will be advocated for drug-addiction treatments within prisons, rather than simply punishments, due to their success in producing evident changes in addictions and lasting results.  
2. The next idea that I am considering is healthcare reform. Healthcare reform is an issue with an extensive magnitude, influencing almost every American in some shape or form. My issue brief would delve into the disparities and challenges in accessing healthcare services, particularly among marginalized communities. I would find and discuss evidence which highlights the unequal distribution of healthcare resources, including access to primary care, specialist services, and preventive measures. I would explore how socioeconomic factors, geographic location, and systemic barriers contribute to disparities in healthcare access and outcomes. Overall, these disparities have a harming impact on the overall population health and well-being and my brief would culminate with an emphasis of the importance of addressing healthcare inequities through policy reforms, community interventions, and improved healthcare delivery models. 
3. My last idea for a potential topic is the struggles faced by the aging population. Based on some early research completed, the United States’ demographic is shifting to be majority elderly population, yet the policies and acts put into place are not focusing on that, and thus, a lack of proper and sufficient care is emerging. Some of the key concerns include ensuring access to quality healthcare and long-term care services, addressing financial insecurity among older adults, promoting social inclusion and community engagement, and enhancing infrastructure to support aging in place. There is a pressing need to reevaluate pension systems, retirement policies, and workforce dynamics to accommodate longer lifespans and changing labor participation patterns. I have not seen one unified solution which is supported across the research, rather, most seem to advocate for a different solution, thus, there exists a need to explore all proposed solutions and come out with one unified solution which will provide the necessary reform.  

Date: February 8th, 2024

In the vast expanse of our oceans lies a silent epidemic that threatens marine life, ecosystems, and ultimately, our own well-being: plastic pollution. With each passing year, our seas become increasingly filled with plastic waste, posing a threat to not only the animals but to the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. As we engage in Climate Conversations, it’s crucial that we shine a spotlight on the prevalence of plastic in our oceans and explore solutions to combat this environmental crisis.

The statistics surrounding plastic pollution in our oceans paint a grim picture of the magnitude of the problem. Each year, an estimated 8 million metric tons of plastic find their way into the ocean, equivalent to dumping a garbage truck’s worth of plastic into the sea every minute. Shockingly, if current trends continue, there could be more plastic than fish in the ocean by 2050. Furthermore, microplastics—tiny fragments of degraded plastic—have permeated even the most remote corners of the ocean, infiltrating marine food webs and posing a potential risk to human health.

The impact of plastic pollution on marine life is devastating. Countless marine species, from seabirds to turtles to whales, fall victim to entanglement or ingestion of plastic debris, often with fatal consequences. Coral reefs, vital marine ecosystems that support a quarter of all marine life, are also under threat, as plastic pollution smothers and suffocates them. Moreover, the economic toll of plastic pollution is staggering, with coastal communities bearing the brunt of cleanup costs and lost revenue from tourism and fisheries.

Addressing the scourge of plastic pollution requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses both individual and systemic changes. While initiatives such as beach cleanups and plastic recycling efforts are commendable, they alone are insufficient to stem the tide of plastic entering our oceans. Instead, we must focus on upstream solutions that address the root causes of plastic pollution and reduce plastic production and consumption at the source.

One promising solution is the implementation of extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes, which hold manufacturers accountable for the entire lifecycle of their products, including post-consumer disposal. By shifting the burden of plastic waste management from consumers to producers, EPR incentivizes the design of more sustainable packaging and encourages the adoption of circular economy principles. Countries like Canada and those in the European Union have already made strides in implementing EPR policies for various products, demonstrating the feasibility and effectiveness of this approach.

Another key solution is the promotion of alternative materials and packaging designs that minimize plastic use and maximize recyclability. Innovations such as biodegradable plastics, compostable packaging, and reusable alternatives offer promising alternatives to conventional plastic products, reducing our reliance on fossil fuel-derived plastics and mitigating their environmental impact. Additionally, initiatives to redesign single-use plastics, such as banning certain items like plastic bags and straws or incentivizing the use of refillable containers, can significantly reduce plastic waste generation and littering.

Date: January 27th, 2024

For the first time, we delve into an event that unfolded within the last 50 years. It is a war fought over communism and a war which remains controversial despite the time that has past. 

On this day 50 years ago, the Vietnam War ended.  

The Vietnam War, fought from 1954 to 1975, was a conflict primarily between the communist government of North Vietnam, supported by its communist allies, and the government of South Vietnam, supported by the United States and other anti-communist nations. The root cause of the war lay in the division of Vietnam after the Geneva Accords in 1954, which split the country into communist-controlled North Vietnam and non-communist South Vietnam. The communist North aimed to reunify the country under its rule, while the South sought to maintain its independence and resist communism. It emerged as a pivotal battleground during the Cold War era, pitting communist forces against the anti-communist forces. The United States became deeply involved in the conflict due to its policy of containment against the spread of communism. They feared the domino effect, whereby the fall of one Southeast Asian nation to communism might trigger the collapse of others. 

The major battles of the Vietnam War were characterized by guerrilla warfare, ambushes, and counterinsurgency tactics. The Battle of Dien Bien Phu in 1954 marked the end of French colonial rule in Vietnam and laid the groundwork for the division of the country into North and South Vietnam. The conflict escalated with the Gulf of Tonkin incident in 1964, which led to the escalation of U.S. involvement in the region. Key engagements like the Tet Offensive in 1968, though militarily inconclusive, eroded American public support for the war effort due to the scale and intensity of the attacks launched by North Vietnamese forces throughout South Vietnam. The Battle of Khe Sanh, fought around the same time, underscored the challenges faced by U.S. troops in combating a determined enemy across difficult terrain. 

The beginning of the end of the war was marked by the signing of the Paris Peace Accords in 1973 which signaled the withdrawal of American troops and a ceasefire agreement. However, without the presence of U.S. forces, the South Vietnamese government struggled to fend off the advancing communist forces. The Vietnam War ultimately ended with the fall of Saigon, the capital of South Vietnam, to North Vietnamese forces on April 30, 1975, resulting in the reunification of the country under communist rule. 

Ultimately, the Vietnam War was a multifaceted struggle driven by ideological, geopolitical, and historical forces. It represented a critical chapter in the broader Cold War confrontation between the United States and the Soviet Union, and its repercussions continue to reverberate in both Vietnam and the international community to this day. In speaking of the United States, the conflict deeply divided American society, fueling anti-war protests and sparking a reassessment of U.S. foreign policy in the wake of its perceived failure in Vietnam. 

Source: Spector, Ronald H.. “Vietnam War”. Encyclopedia Britannica, 24 Jan. 2024, https://www.britannica.com/event/Vietnam-War.

Date: January 22nd, 2024 (posted on January 18th)

Throughout this blog, battles, prime ministers, monarchs, conferences, foreign ministers, prime ministers, and key events have all been covered. Events have spanned across eras of time, beginning in the early 1700s and moving onward, and have covered various countries and territories. Yet despite all that has been covered, a fascinating era in Great Britain remains to be spoken about. The Era of the First British Monarch to Live in Buckingham Palace. The Era of Queen Victoria. This leads me to…. 

On this day 123 years ago, Queen Victoria passed away, marking the end of the Victorian Era.  

Alexandrina Victoria, known as Queen Victoria, ruled Great Britain from 1837 to 1901 and is known to be one of the most influential monarchs. Ascending to the throne at the age of 18, she ruled over a period known now as the Victorian era, a time marked by significant economic and technological changes. Her reign saw the expansion of the British Empire to its greatest prosperity and witnessed the Industrial Revolution, a revolution which transformed Britain into an industrial powerhouse.  

Throughout her rule, British Prime Minister Lord Melbourne was her trusted advisor and confidante and with his aid, Victoria quickly won back the public’s approval of the monarchy and it’s status as she worked to modernize the empire, “supporting the arts and charities and championing industrial advancements” who were available to all classes (“Queen Victoria”). Her ability to win back public approval for the monarchy during her reign was closely tied to her efforts in modernizing the empire and promoting inclusivity. Recognizing the changing societal dynamics of the time, Queen Victoria strategically positioned the monarchy as a progressive force. Her patronage of the arts contributed to the flourishing of literature, music, and fine arts, fostering a vibrant cultural scene that resonated with the public across different social classes. 

Beyond that, Queen Victoria played a crucial role in fostering the Industrial Revolution. Her reign witnessed remarkable advancements in technology, transportation, and industry. The development of the railway network, the growth of factories, and the emergence of new technologies propelled Britain into an era of rapid industrialization. Allowing industrial advancements to be accessible to all classes was another key aspect of Queen Victoria’s modernization efforts. The Industrial Revolution brought about significant changes, and she recognized the importance of ensuring that the benefits extended to all classes of society. Much of her support aimed at making progress inclusive, creating opportunities for economic growth and social mobility.  

Countless sources remark that during Queen Victoria’s reign, the British Empire was at its largest and most powerful. Her empire “included India, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and South Africa” and “accounted for roughly one in four people on Earth” (“Queen Victoria”). She remains the second-longest-reigning English royal in history, beaten only be her great-great-granddaughter Queen Elizabeth II. Queen Victoria’s steadfast rule and commitment to public service left an indelible mark on the British monarchy and shaped the trajectory of the 19th century. 

Source:

“Queen Victoria – Children, Family Tree & Facts.” History.Com, A&E Television Networks, 9 Nov. 2022, www.history.com/topics/european-history/queen-victoria.

Where I’m From

I am from the land of Southern hospitality

from the winters that are never too cold

and the summers where the stifling heat never stops.

I am from homemade sweet iced tea,

BBQ from the local farmers,

and ground up corn for grits.

I am from a bustling city,

where the population never stops growing

and the cars and apartment complexes keep on emerging.

I am from the sounds of dogs barking

and the splashes from the pool out back.

I am from “no phones at the table,”

and “always say goodnight”

and a central focus on family.

I am from Argentine steaks and corn on the cob

and a kiss on the cheek to say goodbye.

I am from the home of famous country artists

and failing sports teams.

I am from a love of all country music,

the weekend trips to the lakes nearby,

a soul-curing outdoor concert,

and the iconic blue skies.

This I Believe

Two Ideas for “This I Believe:”

1. I believe in the importance of stopping – In one’s life in general, there always seems to be a lot going on. Especially as a college student, one’s days are filled with balancing classes, completing homework, hanging out with friends, extracurricular responsibilities, self-care, and plenty more. Within all of that chaos, many (including myself) struggle to find anytime for myself or to simply just stop. I truly do believe in the importance of taking the time to stop amidst chaos and appreciate the things going right in your life, find gratitude for the things/people/events/hobbies that one has, and to simply take a second to breathe.
2. I believe in the power of playing cards – Cards, at least for my family, have always been played after dinner during every family reunion and large gathering. Not only does learning how to play cards give one a unique sill set and ability to think critically, but it brings people together, all sitting around a table or on the floor, no phones in sight, and just enjoying something together. For me, some of the most eye-opening and heartfelt conversations have happened over cards and there’s simply nothing like it.

Passion Blog

Two Ideas for Passion Blog:

1. My first idea for the passion blog is a continuation of the blog which I created last semester focusing on history. My blog centered around historical events which happened “x amount of years ago,” however, I would usually focus on events or people which were not well known or recognizable. I really enjoyed working on this blog last semester as it gave me a chance to highlight significant European events which had occurred or overview an European leader who was foundational in their specific area.
2. My second idea for the passion blog would focus on the evolution of #BookTok and it’s impact on the rise (and fall) of the popular books seen on TikTok. Each blog post would focus on one particular book and go through it’s overview plot (like what is on the back cover with no spoilers), a short description of the author, and lastly, an analysis of what “BookTok” thought of the book. I feel that this blog would help to highlight both books people have and have not enjoyed and show readers other works completed by authors that they may have enjoyed previously.

Civic Issues Blog

Two Ideas for Civic Issues Blog:

1. Animal Cruelty – Animal Cruelty is a complex topic in that it oftentimes hides underneath larger, more focused on issues, and thus, struggles to get the attention and focus that it deserves. Through this blog, I would look into current practices within governments, companies, and well-known attractions and explain controversial ideas and debates which have previously been held.
2. Environmental Issues – Most in our world are well aware of the failing status of our environment and the constant exploitation which occurs in order to gain access to natural resources. This blog would expand on that information and begin to discuss the key players in the current environmental crisis, both good and bad, as well as the role that current everyday citizens play in worsening or relieving the current status.

Date: November 28, 2023 

Throughout this blog, we have explored a variety of wars, ranging from conflicts fought over small strips of land to those driven by the desire for religious dominance. Among these wars, none are quite like the next. World War II, recognized not only as the largest conflict in civilization’s history but also as the deadliest, stands out as a unique and unparalleled event. This post, diverging from the common knowledge about the war, will specifically focus on the Tehran Conference. This leads me to…. 

On this day 80 years ago, The Tehran Conference began.  

Before we begin, it is important to highlight two points. Initially, when the war began, Josef Stalin, the Soviet Premier of the Soviet Union, formed an alliance with Adolf Hitler, creating a formidable partnership between the nations. Furthermore, the Axis Powers comprised the Soviet Union, Germany, Japan, and Italy. However, in the summer of 1941, Hitler betrayed Stalin by invading the Soviet Union, prompting Stalin to switch sides and join the Allied Powers which included France, the United States, and Great Britain. Due to Stalin’s previous alliance with Hitler and his highly autocratic rule, the Allied Powers initially did not trust Stalin or his intentions. The Tehran Conference marked a significant moment as it was the first major wartime conferences where the Allied Powers invited Stalin, signifying a step towards him earning their trust.  

The Tehran conference was the first wartime conference which all three members of the Big Three attended: U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, and Soviet Premier Joseph Stalin.  

During the conference, the three leaders collaborated on coordinating their military strategies against the Germany military, a military which had yet to suffer a major defeat. The conference had two primary focuses. The first focus was to make decisions regarding the upcoming military phases against the Axis Powers in both Europe and Asia, where all three sides were equally engaged on the battlefield. The second focus centered around the opening of a “second front” in Western Europe. Before the conference, Germany had been dominating the Eastern Front in their battles with France and Great Britian. The Allied Powers hoped that in opening the second front,Germany’s resources would be stretched thin, making it challenging for them to handle intense fighting on both sides. Stalin agreed to the second front, which would lie between the Soviet Union and Germany, further underlining a major milestone in the relationship among the three countries.  

“The major result of the conference was the decision to go ahead with the cross-channel invasion of Europe – Operation Overlord,” known to most as D-Day (“World War II”). This invasion of northern France by the Western Allies ultimately altered the trajectory of the war and stands as one of the most significant victories of the Western Allies.  

Ultimately, the Tehran Conference remains one of the most notable wartime conferences held by the Allied Powers. It set the military stage for the upcoming months and marked a milestone of agreement and cooperation across the three nations.  

Source

“World War II Conferences.” Franklin D. Roosevelt and World War II, ww.fdrlibrary.marist.edu.

Date: November 17th, 2023 

The time has finally arrived to discuss one of Europe’s greatest monarchs, Queen Elizabeth I. She single-handedly brought her nation from an era of chaos and crisis to an era of prosperity, all while facing doubts about her abilities due to her gender. This leads me to…. 

On this day 465 years ago, Elizabeth I was crowned Queen of England. 

Upon the death of her “sister,” Bloody Mary, in 1558, the throne passed to Elizabeth. Her sister’s reign, marked by the persecution of Protestants, left the English public deeply mistrustful of the monarch and fraught with tensions over the nation’s religious affiliation. Thus, the future of the Church of England and the publics’ trust in the monarchy rested in Elizabeth’s hands. Recognizing the costly effects of harsh rule, Elizabeth committed herself to ruling with respect rather than fear.  

On top of religions issues within England and threats from powerful neighboring nations, Queen Elizabeth I also grabbled with the insurmountable difficulties that came with being a woman at the time. “Since her sister’s reign did not provide a satisfactory model for female authority, Elizabeth had to improvise a new model, one that would overcome the considerable cultural liability of her sex” (“Accession of Elizabeth”). Not only was Elizabeth a female monarch, but she also lacked a husband. She refused to marry, stating that she had neither the intention nor desire to do so, knowing that marriage would quickly strip her of her power and authority over the state.  

Beginning in 1559, she proceeded cautiously, gradually implementing a series of reforms known as the  Elizabethan Settlement. Within this settlement, she struck a middle ground by respecting both Catholics and Protestants, a balance previously unattained by any European ruler. The Church of England retained many of the Catholic ceremonies and rituals, however, she reaffirmed that the monarch served as the head of the Church. Most notably, the Act of Supremacy established Elizabeth as the supreme governor of the Church of England, requiring all clergy member and royal officials to swear an oath to obey her authority over the Pope’s. This act largely repealed the anti-Protestant legislation put in place by her sister. The Elizabethan Settlement allowed for freedom of religion within Catholicism and Protestantism, without any threat of prosecution. As she sought this compromise and defended it to the Church, the public gradually restored their respect and trust in the monarchy.  

In 1563, Elizabeth issued the Thirty-Nine Articles of Religion, officially establishing Protestantism as the official religion of the Church of England. In doing so, she brought religious peace to England for the first time in decades.

Ultimately, Elizabeth I remains as one of the greatest monarchs of all time due to her intelligence, political savvy, and determination. The defeat of the Spanish Armada, a fleet of Spanish ships attempting to overthrow Queen Elizabeth, stands as one of England’s most significant military achievements, entirely executed under her leadership.She brought political, economic, and religious stability to England, reestablishing her nation as a superpower and a force to be reckoned with.  

Greenblatt, Stephen J. “Accession of Elizabeth I.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., www.britannica.com/biography/Elizabeth-I/Accession. Accessed 8 Nov. 2023.

Date: October 31, 2023 

By the 1500s, the Church had amassed an unprecedented level of wealth and authority. With its power extending to all aspects of European life, the Catholic Church became increasingly driven by manipulative figures and widespread corruption. Observers of the faith took note of the corruptive practices, the exploitation of the poor, and the sale of indulgences, prompting them to take to the pen to voice their concerns. Martin Luther saw first-hand the issues within the Catholic Church, fueling him to write the 95 Theses in which he explicitly articulated his grievances with the Church. This leads me to… 

On this day 506 years ago, Martin Luther posted his 95 Theses, sparking the beginnings of the Protestant Reformation.  

Martin Luther was a German monk and theologian whose beliefs gave rise to Protestantism, the third major domination of Christianity. Fueled by his frustrations with the corruption within the church, Luther published the 95 Theses, a compilation of 95 complaints and issues he felt needed to be addressed. It is important to note that Luther did not intend for his message to gain traction and gain wide circulation across Europe; rather, he had originally hoped to raise community awareness. However, after Luther posted the pamphlet on the door, an anonymous individual took it to the local printing press, causing it to rapidly circulate throughout Europe. Few dared to voice concerns about the church’s conduct or criticize its officials due to their intimidating status, and as a result, Luther’s denouncing pamphlet rapidly garnered attention.  

Luther drastically altered the religious sphere of Europe as he and his Protestant faith gained popularity. He passionately advocated for the necessary reform of the Catholic Church and the introduction of his own religious ideas. The primary points in the Theses centered around five ideas: (1) salvation is achieved by faith alone, (2) the Primacy of Scripture, affirming that the Bible is the sole valid authority, (3) universal access to God, (4) the recognition of two sacraments, baptism and communism, instead of the original seven sacraments in Catholicism, and (5) the right for clergy to marry. Luther emphasized that those in position of power within the Church had strayed significantly from the tenets of the Bible and could no longer be trusted nor regarded as holy figures due to their corruptive behaviors. He called out members of the church for the selling of indulgences, asserting that there should be no world where absolution from sin can be bought off using one’s wealth. The 95 Theses marked the beginning of the Protestant Reformation, a movement where Catholicism suffered and Protestantism quickly rose.  

Throughout the 95 Theses, a recurring theme was his direct challenge to the authority of the Catholic Church, an unprecedented action at the time. He aimed to strip power away from the Pope and the institutional body of the Catholic Church and return it to the hands of God. Ultimately, Luther posed the questions that few were willing to ask at the time, ensuring that his legacy would far outlast his lifetime. 

Source:

“Ninety-Five Theses.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., 24 Oct. 2023, www.britannica.com/event/Ninety-five-Theses.