Today is a national holiday honouring Martin Luther King, Jr., the great non-violent civil rights leader of the 1960s. Because of his efforts and the efforts of hundreds of thousands - maybe millions - of USAers, laws enforcing and perpetuating segregation, the USA's apartheid system, were outlawed and racial equality became the law of the land. This was very good.
I do feel the need to point out that passing laws is one thing and getting them enforced is another. [Think of India's anti-dowry laws, for example] The enforcement actually involved quite a bit of violence on both sides. Things seem to have settled down. The election and presidency of Barack Obama is one indication of this.
About the video:
For those who may not know, "Abraham" is Abraham Lincoln, sixteenth President of the USA, who is credited with freeing the slaves;
"John" is John Kennedy, 35th President of the USA;
"Martin" is Martin Luther King, Jr.;
"Bobby" is Robert Kennedy, JFK's younger brother who was running (standing) for President in 1968.
All four were assassinated.
Gentlemen may cry, Peace, Peace--but there is no peace. The war is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle? What is it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!
Showing posts with label Kennedy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kennedy. Show all posts
17 January 2011
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