Blog 2 - Change Markers Griselly Andrade
Change Makers of America: Learning from Different Generations of Leaders
During our change makers of America project, our professor divided the class into four different groups. Each group was assigned a specific historical period and had to research important individuals who made a significant impact in the United States during that time. Every member selected a historical figure to study and present. Listening to all the presentations was interesting because it allowed us to see how different people throughout history have shaped the country in political, social, and cultural ways. I would like to briefly reflect on some of the ideas and individuals that stood out to me from each group.
Group 1 – The 1700s
The first group focused on influential leaders from the 1700s who helped establish the foundation of the United States. Their presentation highlighted important figures such as James Madison, Benjamin Franklin, Alexander Hamilton, Roger Sherman, George Mason, and George Washington. These individuals played a crucial role in shaping the early political structure of the country.
One of the main ideas discussed was how these leaders worked toward independence from Great Britain and created the framework for a democratic government. Through their efforts, the Constitution was developed as the main document that would guide the new nation. In addition to this, they also helped create the Bill of Rights, which was extremely important in protecting individual freedoms. These rights were designed to prevent the kind of government abuse and unfair treatment that colonists had experienced under British rule. Their work continues to influence the political system we have today.
Group 2 – The 1800s
Group two focused on several influential individuals from the 1800s, including Frederick Douglass, John Brown, Florence Nightingale, Clara Barton, Andrew Carnegie, and John D. Rockefeller. Although all of these individuals made important contributions, the part of the presentation that interested me the most was the discussion about Florence Nightingale and Clara Barton.
I found their stories particularly inspiring because they helped transform the nursing profession and improve medical care during times when women were not given the same opportunities as men. Florence Nightingale played a major role in organizing hospital practices and promoting sanitation, while Clara Barton founded the American Red Cross and helped provide medical care during times of war and crisis.
When I think about their impact, it really makes me appreciate the healthcare system we have today. Without the work of pioneers like Nightingale and Barton, the nursing profession might not have developed the way it did. Doctors are responsible for diagnosing illnesses and prescribing treatments, but nurses are essential in carrying out care plans and supporting patients during recovery. Their contributions also helped open doors for women to work in professional fields and prove that women could succeed and lead in important roles.
Group 3 – The 2000s
I was part of group three, which focused on change makers from the 2000s. My group members presented figures such as Barack Obama, Ketanji Brown Jackson, Stacey Abrams, Alejandro Mayorkas, and Sonia Sotomayor. For my part of the presentation, I chose to research George W. Bush, the 43rd President of the United States.
I decided to focus on George Bush because his presidency had a major impact on the country during the early 2000s, especially during times of national crisis. One of the most significant moments during his presidency was the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, which deeply affected the United States and the entire world. During that time, Bush played an important leadership role by addressing the nation and focusing on strengthening national security.
After the attacks, his administration created new policies and organizations aimed at protecting the country, including the establishment of the Department of Homeland Security. These changes were designed to improve safety and prevent future attacks. His presidency also focused heavily on international relations and the fight against terrorism, which shaped many of the political decisions during that time.
Another area that stood out to me was his work on domestic policies, such as the no child left behind act, which aimed to improve the American education system by increasing accountability in schools and ensuring that students received a better quality education.
Learning about George Bush helped me understand how leadership during difficult moments can influence the direction of a country. His presidency shows how political decisions made during times of crisis can have long-lasting effects on national security, education, and international relations.
Group 4 – The 1900s
The fourth group presented influential figures from the 1900s who fought for civil rights, equality, and social justice. Some of the individuals discussed included Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King Jr., Alice Paul, and Betty Friedan. These leaders dedicated their lives to challenging discrimination and advocating for equal rights.
Through activism, legal reform, and political leadership, they helped advance important movements for racial equality, women’s rights, and human rights. Their efforts contributed to major social and political changes, including civil rights legislation and anti-discrimination laws that aimed to provide equal opportunities for all people regardless of race or background.
For example, Martin Luther King Jr. played a key role in the Civil Rights Movement in the United States, while Nelson Mandela fought against apartheid in South Africa. Their leadership helped challenge systems that oppressed marginalized communities and inspired people around the world to fight for justice.
Although many important changes have been achieved, the fight for equality is still ongoing. Women have gained many rights over time, such as the right to vote, the ability to open bank accounts independently, and legal protections against discrimination. However, many people still believe that full equality has not yet been reached. This reminds us that the work started by these leaders continues today, and future generations must keep working toward fairness and respect for everyone.
Final Reflection
Overall, this project helped me understand how individuals from different time periods have contributed to shaping society in meaningful ways. Each group highlighted leaders who challenged injustice, created new opportunities, and worked to improve the lives of others. Learning about these change makers made me realize that social progress does not happen overnight—it takes courage, persistence, and people who are willing to stand up for what they believe is right.
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