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A study in American progress. Can society be perfected, or changed? The trait of equality isn’t responsible for either, but it puts those ideals into a different light. Public meetings are called to denounce the government, or deplorable conditions, or to suggest improvements to the quality of life. Taking a hand in government and discussing it seems the only concern. God is invoked as backing the purpose of the reformer.
Americans, whether on land or sea, seem to have a knack for succeeding and making money. Americans may not have the best ships, or skill, but they feel God is on their side. They fail, but they get back on their feet, and push on toward success. What makes American ships so efficient, compared to other nations?
Resources are abundant, and even if products aren’t durable, the expectation is that more can be made, and things are always improving. Anything is possible, is the attitude of Americans. Associations and societies are organized with the purpose of self improvement. A society against slavery, is spotlighted, and the push to defend equal rights. By comparison, our French travelers look at Southern oppression of slaves, and removal of their rights.
People of like mind band together for a cause to increase their public voice, and become stronger. One popular society was on temperance. What is that? Our travelers learn about the push to make alcohol of any kind illegal in the state.
American ideals include: The pursuit of virtue, and good. Not caring for what has been, but for the imagination of what is to come. Progress, and striving for perfection.
