Essay about Individualism in History - 1061 Words

In today’s world, individualism is everywhere, accepted by many and encouraged by most people in America. However, in the 18th century colonies, when America was finding its beginnings, this was something that was highly frowned upon. Among many beliefs during the 18th century, one that stood out the most were Puritans who thought that everyone was equal and should do their part to help their community. There were, also, the Deists who believed that everyone was a part of a bigger picture than what was actually seen. Not one of the proclaimed Deists strove to be different from the other, always conforming to what was around him or her. During the 18th century, there were two men who could not be more obviously different than Jonathan†¦show more content†¦Unfortunately, soon after Franklin and his son had a major falling out, that greatly dampened their relationship. Edwards’ and Franklin’s use of tone, the reader sees that both men do an excellent j ob in getting their points across, even though they have various ways of showing their thoughts. Franklin and Edward’s beliefs were the root of every other thing they accomplished in their lives. For Franklin, who was a deist, believed that everything could be solved by reason and logic. Franklin was much more into the emerging science that was coming about in the world. Edwards, on the other hand, was a Calvinist. He believed in predestination and the mystical powers of God. Everything Edwards did or saw could all be explained by God’s will. Although both men believed in completely different theories, they both lived by a high moral code. Franklin first listed out his highest virtues in his autobiography and secondly, tried to master every one. Both men tried to better themselves due to their strong beliefs, but they both were trying to accomplish the same things essentially. Both men, also, shared their beliefs of others. Edwards was different in the fact that he felt it necessary to preach his religion to others, such as in his sermon, â€Å"Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God†, while Franklin did not. Franklin and Edwards’ convictions were their primary motivations for their work. Both men’s beliefs, also, had a great effect on the earlyShow MoreRelatedEssay about Individualism in American History1470 Words   |  6 PagesAmerican history there have been struggles for individualism. The American Revolution, the American Civil War, and the separation from family life are all examples of individualism in American history. Individualism is an American paradigm designed by the modern societal structure that is an altered idea of the foundation by immigrants. In today’s society the struggle for individualism is more personal and represents how American values have shifted since the beginning of American history. 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