John Brown: Martyr or Madman?
Based on the historical evidence provided in Chapter 10 of War, Terrible War by Joy Hakim, the video entitled “John Brown’s Raid in American Memory” on the Virginia Historical Society’s website, and the article “The Impending Crisis,” on page 20 of your packet, do you believe John Brown was a martyr or a madman? Use TEXTUAL evidence to support your opinion!
Based on historical evidence, I do think John Brown was in fact a mad man. There is countless of numbers of information stating reasons showing he was an obvious mad man. For example, in the video “John Brown’s Raid in American Memory”, it states that John Brown, at one point, met up with Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglas to speak about his plans about the slave uprising. They both told him he was crazy. Also, in Chapter 10 of “War, Terrible War” by Joa Hakim, it shows, “In May of 1856, a tall, fierce eyed, Bible quoting white man led a group that brutally murdered five pro slavery Kansas natives.” This proves that John Brown was a vicious man doing anything in his way to destroy slavery. Even kill people. In other reading, it is said that John Brown planned to free 4 million slaves. In what way did he plan doing this you ask?
ReplyDeleteBy giving all these slaves daggers and rifles and telling them to go kill their masters. All of this evidence shows that John Brown was a Mad Man.
Stephen Barry 2-3a
And what did the American colonists (slaves) do with their weapons when they demanded freedom from their masters (the British)? The difference between patriot and madman is really, really fine sometimes. The slaves would not have been freed anytime soon, so it's understandable -- not saying right -- that Brown and 4 million slaves thought the time was now and not 30-40 years in the future.
DeleteBased on the historical evidence provided in Chapter 10 of War, Terrible War by Joy Hakim, John Brown was most likely a mad man. Firstly, Brown killed 5 innocent Southerners (people who wanted slavery) who he simply passed. Also, Brown raided, locked, and took an arsenal along with an innocent person who became a hostage. Next, he starved, froze, and imprisoned several of his “army” who were all killed or later hanged. He was later forced to leave the the weaponry as soldiers and army men forced him out. Later, he was hanged for murder. Therefore, he was a madman who didn’t know when to stop. He killed innocent people and would’ve killed more.
ReplyDelete-Katya Nekrassova 5/9B
After reading the historical evidence, I believe John Brown was a madman. Although he did help the enslaved Blacks, he killed anybody in his way. He was killing many people who owned slaves, just because he was an abolitionist. Once, when controlling an armory, a train came by, and John Brown's men panicked and killed a free, black railroad worker. He then went on to Colonel Lewis W. Washington's house to take George Washington's sword. Even after all of this, John Brown still believed he was fighting for American freedom as a hero. Although I do believe he helped people to go against slavery, I believe he is just a madman.
ReplyDelete-William Conroy 5-9 B
Chris Bo 5-13-14
ReplyDeleteI believe that John Brown was a madman. This is my opinion because he murdered people just because they were pro on slavery. You don’t judge a man by just one trait. Also, Brown raided a military arsenal so that he could give the weapons to slaves so that they can kill their owners. More blood on his shoulders. When he thought about the plan, John left out the part on how he was going to get the weapons to the slaves. He even killed more people trying to protect the arsenal. However, John Brown was also a martyr. He wanted all slaves to be free, that’s fair. Also, when Brown went to court, he said that if he was fighting for whites, they would’ve given him an award. Still though, John Brown murdered people deliberately and that’s a crime that is punishable by death. Thank god he was hanged.
Based on historical evidence from chapter 10 of ¨War, Terrible War¨ I believe that John Brown was more on the martyr side than the madman side. All of the harmful things that he did were all out of his passion to make blacks free. And for the most part, the only people that he did harm was people who were pro-slavery. That was the part of him that was a little bit of a madman, but it does show that he was in the right position on slavery. Also, most of the people who had slaves brutally beat their slaves, so the people that John Brown killed may have deserved that fate. And if he actually was crazy, wouldn't his followers do something about it? Anyway, in conclusion, I believe that John Brown was definitely more on the martyr side.
ReplyDeleteTyler G
Period 2-3 A
Based on all of the historical evidence provided in Chapter 10 of War, Terrible War by Joy Hakim, the video called “John Brown’s Raid in American Memory and the article “The Impending Crisis”, I believe that John Brown was a martyr. He was willing to die for what he believed in, and he did just that. John Brown was an advocate for ending slavery. He believed that whatever he did would end slavery, no matter the cost. He was an abolitionist who believed that slavery could be solved with war, not knowing he’s predicting the havoc yet to come. John Brown was friends with fugitive slaves, and he helped them get to freedom. He helped fund anti slavery pamphlets,which were written by slaves. John Brown always though in his head that he was a martyr, because he believed he was acting for God. Most abolitionists thought that John Brown was a hero, although Southerners thought the opposite. Many could think he was a madman, and they are entitled to their opinions.John Brown actually met with Frederick Douglass and asked him to help with Brown’s crazy idea. Being the level-headed man he was, Douglass said no. On October 16, 1857, John Brown and 21 other men lead a raid on Harper’s Ferry. They
ReplyDeletecaptured the watchmen and seized the arsenal. John Brown thought that free slaves and other abolitionists would come and help him, they did not, nobody came that night but local townspeople to fight Brown’s army. The assault lasted 2 days, with Brown’s supplies and men wavering as the days went by. On the second day, Colonel Robert E. Lee knocked Brown unconscious and captured him. John Brown and 7 other men were hung on December 2, 1859.
“Began the war that ended American slavery” ~Frederick Douglass
Paige S. period 5/9A
I believe that John Brown was a madman. I believe this because, first he was responsible for leading a group of men to Kansas and the killed five proslavery citizens. After he did the Kansas killing he planned a slave uprising in the south. He gathered a bunch of people from the North and took them to invade the South. Taking over federal arsenals and gathering freed slaves. He continued to capture people off the streets and take them hostage. After he was captured he pleaded not guilty to treason and murder. That’s just crazy. He took over federal arsenals and fought government soldiers (treason) and killing many (murder). In addition, while on trial, he foreshadowed the Civil war! He stated, “I John Brown am now quite certain that the crimes of this guilty land will never be purged away, but with blood”.
ReplyDelete-Jewel D. period 2/3 A
Based on evidence, I believe that John Brown was a madman. John Brown was a mad man because he killed many people in his efforts to free slaves. For example, in Chapter ten of “War,Terrible War” it stated John Brown “brutally murdered five pro slavery Kansans” and that “his men killed an innocent black and free railroad worker”. This shows that he is a mad man because instead of focusing on his own cause he killed many people in the process. BRown also involved violence bloodshed and treason which shows that he was a violent insane man. A martyr would have been more rational in fighting for his cause. In addition, John Brown was a madman because he used a disguise in his efforts to free slaves. This tells me that Brown was a madman because he was afraid to show his real face to continue his fight, so that he could start an uprising.
ReplyDeleteNicole W 5-9A
ReplyDeleteBased on historical evidence, John Brown is a martyr. Though half of the population of the North believes he is not, they have a reason to do so. However, that does not mean that he is a mad man. He wanted to help the slaves, free them so they can have rights of their own. According to John Brown, “If it is deemed necessary that I should forfeit my life for the furtherance of the ends of justice and mingle my blood with the blood of millions in this slave country whose rights are disregarded by wicked, cruel, and unjust enactments, I say let it be done.” He is stating the fact that he would do anything, everything, to free the slaves. Slaves are not one’s properties, they are their responsibility to take care of and be treated nicely. Ralph Waldo Emerson, a poet, compared John Brown to Jesus Christ and declared that Brown’s death had made “ the gallows as glorious as the cross.” Both gave up everything just to do what is right, including their lives. They never intended for themselves to get killed, but it did make others rethink their decisions. Whether to free slaves or sins, both are almost the same. Own a slave and not treat them right makes it a sin. Therefore, John Brown is not a madman, but a martyr.
Nicole T. 5-9A
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI believe John Brown was a madman. I think this because he lead a group of people to brutally murdered five pro slave groups in Kansas. The video states, “John Brown lead a group of anti-slavery people to go into Kansas to brutally murdered five pro slavery groups of people.” This proves that he was a mad man because he didn’t like pro slavery people so he sent men to kill them. He also planned to arm rebellious slaves with them - but he never got that far. The video states, “ John Brown planned to arm rebellious slaves with them, but never got around to it because he died.” I demonstrates, that Brown wanted slaves to be armed and go with him but because he died he never had a chance to do this.
ReplyDeleteCatherine H. Pd: 2/3 A
Based on the historical evidence I believe John Brown is a martyr. In the 1830's to the 1840's he befriended fugitive slaves. Then, he helped fund anti slavery pamphlets published by blacks. I got this information from chapter 10, in War, Terrible War by:John Hakim. Another reason I believe John Brown is a martyr is because he wanted slaves to kill their owners. I got this information from the video “John Brown’s Raid in America.” However, some people believe since John Brown wanted slaves to kill their owners, he is a bloodthirsty terrorist. This is why I believe John Brown is a martyr!
ReplyDelete-Serena N. p 1/2 B
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDelete
ReplyDeleteIn my opinion, John Brown seemed more like a madman than a martyr. John Brown was an abolitionist, (a person who wants to end slavery), therefore he had some theories that would help end slavery. And to tell you one thing, they were sick. On October 16, 1859, he led 21 men (including slaves) to Harpers Ferry Virginia, to murder every person who owned a slave. Brown armed the slaves with weapons he and his men had seized from the arsenal that was defeated, however, by militiamen, farmers, and Marines led by Robert E. Lee. Within 36 hours of the attack, most of Brown's men had been killed or captured. John Brown was injured, however, he was sent to court. Which side are you on? Do you believe John Brown is a Martyr or a madman?
- Erin M. p 1-2 B
Based on historical evidence from chapter 10 " War terrible War", I believe that John Brown was more of a martyr than a madman. All of the brutal things that he did were only done to help the blacks. And, most of the people he did harm were in fact pro slavery. That was the part of him that was a madman, but it does show his passion to free the blacks and his position on slavery. It shows that he was trying to help the blacks get there freedom when he funded the antislavery pamphlets, published by slaves. And if John Brown was actually a true madman, he would have no followers and nobody to support him. In conclusion, I believe that John Brown was more of a martyr than a madman.
ReplyDeleteMary Claire Kelty p.1-2b
I honestly believe that John Brown was a martyr not a madman. He believed that he had a call from God to abolish slavery, therefore, he was an abolitionist. He did what was right half of the time which was fights for his
ReplyDeletebeliefs, although i do understand why people would call/consider him a madman. I think for the most part he did the right thing and fought for what he truly believed in, an anti-slavery world.
Victoria C Period 5-9 B
I believe John Brown was a martyr. Even though he acted insane, it was all in an act to end slavery, even though it was not well planned out. Maybe John Brown didn't tell the slaves his plan because some might be traitors, and maybe he didn't bring food because the raid was supposed to be over in a short amount of time. But it didn't go all as planned, and John Brown did get punished for his crimes. For example, in the article,” The Impending Crisis,” it states,”Brown’s plan, he knew, was suicidal. Brown had earlier proposed a somewhat more realistic plan. According to that scheme, Brown would have launched guerrilla activity in the Virginia mountains, providing a haven for slaves and an escape route into the North. That scheme had a chance of working, but Brown’s new plan was hopeless.” John Brown was definitely intelligent enough to know that his plan was this insane, but maybe he was setting an example for the rest of America, informing them to take stand and end slavery.
ReplyDeleteChloe A Period 1-2 B
I think John Brown was a martyr. He was this because he befriended the runaway slaves. He would also help fund anti-slavery groups. He thought he was doing the right thing by burning things to save other people. He did this for what he believed in, which was God. He risked his life to save people who weren't even considered people, they were property.
ReplyDeleteIsabella L Period 10-11 B
Although there is evidence on both sides of whether he was a Martyr or a madman I found him to be more insane than anything. While reading the chapter I took notes and got more evidence proving he was insane. A couple examples of his insanity are that he brutally murdered 5 pro slavery Kansans that didn't do anything. Another piece of evidence to support why I think he was a madman was when he was in court he pleaded not guilty for something he did. He was accused of treason and murder but denied it. He might have fought for a greater cause but the way he was trying to make a difference was wrong.
ReplyDeleteBrian Cataldo Period 3-4 (A)
Based on the historical evidence provided in Chapter 10 of War, Terrible War by Joy Hakim, the video entitled “John Brown’s Raid in American Memory” on the Virginia Historical Society’s website, and the article “The Impending Crisis,” on page 20 of my packet, I believe that John Brown was a madman. He went to far when he brutally murdered five pro-slavery Kansans. He even thought he was acting for 'God' after he had killed many people. Brown had asked the salve followers to kill their masters. He kept his slave uprising idea a secret. He kept it so secret that the slaves that were supposed to take part in the uprising, had no clue it had been happening. John Brown thought he was doing this for freedom as George Washington did, so he had a few men go to GW's great-great-nephew and demand GW's sword. Even more unbelievable, he pleaded NOT-GUILTY to murder and treason meanwhile he had killed many people and gone against some higher ups! Even though he thought he was doing this for the great-good, but truthfully, he was part of the reason the Civil War started. Some people may think he was a martyr, but in truth, he really wasn't.
ReplyDeleteChloe Smith
Period 3-4 A
After reading about John Brown in our books and watching the video about him, I think John Brown was a madman rather than a martyr. Although he helped slaves create anti-slavery packets, he also murdered 5 pro-slavery men. He led a group of people who murdered men who were for slavery and used violence to solve the problem. It was also odd how his plan to start an uprising at Harper's Ferry, as Frederick Douglas put it, "was suicidal". I don't think that a martyr should be someone who does something to put himself in harms way purposely for a cause. Yes, a martyr is someone who died for what they believe in, but John Brown took it to another level. He was the one who started he violence. Martin Luther King Jr., for example, was shot by someone else, not himself. John Brown also held hostages, as mentioned in Joy Hakim's War, Terrible War book.
ReplyDeleteMolly K
P 3/4 A
I both agree and disagree. I believe he took things to far, buthe did everything for a good cause. It's not like he just murdered because he wanted to. He felt as if something needed to be done about slavery, and that's what happened, and there's a possible chance that he could be the reason slavery ended
DeleteDharma M
Period 3/4 B
Well after watching the video and reading about him in our books I have reason to believe that John Brown was in fact a martyr and NOT a madman. For one he had helped and befriended many fugitive slaves and used his own money to create anti-slavery pamphlets on there subject to greater elaborate on the subject. After he had acted out in Harper's Ferry, he had talked about what he had done. He had said that if he had done what he had done for white people , they would have thought of him as a hero. But since they were all Negroes he tried to save, they hated him. And that really showed the truth to his work. So I do in fact think that John Brown was a martyr
ReplyDeleteMatt Conway 3/4 A
I think that John Brown can go either way for a martyr or a madman, but he had more violent, and terrorist plans to free slaves. He killed 5 people with his 21 followers who were slaves. He ordered 1,000 pikes to help the slaves kill their masters, and went to Harper's Ferry to attack and claim an armory. But his acts were shortly cut with Marines and Army officials coming in the armory and capturing Brown and 5 of his members. John Brown was accused of murder and treason. 12 members died out of the 21. Brown was hanged as well as the 5 members. But people still believed in his cause, but just overrode it by doing madman things. Abraham Lincoln studied him and people made a song for him in the North.
ReplyDeleteNick Ferreira
3/4 A-day
After viewing both sources I believe that John Brown is martyr not a mad man even though he took things way too out of hand. The reason why I think that is because he had a very strong belief to God and he thought that what he was doing was right thing. He wanted to free the slaves and make every state a free state. By wanting that he had to risk his and his other twenty one followers helping the black slaves. The day that he predicated that there was gonna be a war based on what he started. He new something was gonna happen, something big.
ReplyDeleteMia Botti
3-4A
John Brown was definitely a martyr. He did so much for a great cause. One of the ways he helped was when he helped slaves publish their writings about experiences they had. He also over took a small town where the US made weapons. He got the guns and gave them to slaves to run away. Lastly, he payed for 1000 spears for his men to fight against the people trying to stop them. So, John Brown should definitely be considered a martyr since he helped a lot for something he truly believed in.
ReplyDeleteJack Costigan Period 3-4 (A)
This debate was on whether John Brown was a martyr or a madman.After reading and watching a video on him i took notes. I found that he is a madman. To start he and his group brutally murdered five white men who were pro slavery. If that wasn't enough he went to Harper's ferry Virginia and captured a government arsenal. Finally he had a plan to free many slaves and start an uprising and slaves would kill thousands of men.This is why i think he is mad.
ReplyDeleteBased on chapter 10 " war terrible war" showed both sides of what john brown is A Martyr or a Madman I Found him to be more a Martyr then a madman because he was just trying to help the slaves and stop slavery. but at least he actually cared for them Even though he bought weapons for the slaves to kill their leaders. That might not of been the best idea to do that but he was just trying to help the slaves by doing it and to stop slavery.
ReplyDeleteJess Monaghan 3-4A
I think that john brown was a madman because of many reasons. I know that it was good to fight for your country and risk your life many times, but he went to extreme. Chapter 10 from the book “War, Terrible war”, states that he brutally murdered five men who believed in having slaves. He could have been sent to jail for that, however he didn’t. I dont think it is not right to murder someone just because they believe in something different. Another reason why I think John Brown is madman is because on the way to get put to death, he was calm and casually looking at the mountains and enjoying nature. While he was doing this he was sitting on his coffin! When he went up to the gallows he was just calm and acted like nothing was going to happen to him. Almost everyone who would be put to death, would be freaking out at that moment. On top of all the insane things he did, he also did some very great things for the country. For example, he helped all the slaves be free. One of the things he did was he gave some of the slaves weapons paying for them with the money in his pocket. That shows a lot of respect for the slaves. He also gave up his life for the slaves. The article states , “I...am now quite certain that the crimes of this guilty land will never be purged away but with blood,”(21 in packet). This quote shows that John Brown, until his last second on earth, tried to make to Slaves free. He said the only way you could free the slaves is to go into a battle. To conclude, although John brown was insane, he had a lot of respect and courage to free the slaves. He had so much courage that he lost his life trying. I wonder if he was at least a little bit scared while he drove to the gallows.
ReplyDeleteDarien Rinn
Period 3-4 A
Many people believe that John Brown was a martyr while others believe that he was a madman. Although there is evidence for both claims, I believe that John Brown was a martyr. I think this because he started off by giving slaves money to do things such as writing about their experiences, but people argue that what he did after this was one hundred percent uncalled for. On the other hand, people like me believe that it was necessary to get to his point and try to demolish slavery for good. Brown helped slaves get free and live a good life by giving them guns and killing their leaders. Lastly, he stated in court that if he did this to try to free white people, he would be known as a hero, but since he did it for black people, he is now villain.
ReplyDeleteMark C Period 3-4 (A)
This debate was on whether John Brown was a martyr or a madman.After reading and watching a video on him i took notes. I found that he is a madman. To start he and his group brutally murdered five white men who were pro slavery. For my second reason to support he is mad, he went to Harper's ferry Virginia and captured a government arsenal. Finally my last reason is he had a plan to free many slaves and start an uprising and slaves would kill thousands of men.This is why i think he is mad.
ReplyDeletecj per. 3-4a
Based on the historical evidence provided in chapter ten of "War, Terrible War" by Joy Hakim, the video entitled “John Brown’s Raid in American Memory” on the Virginia Historical Society’s website, and the article “The Impending Crisis,” on page twenty of my packet, I believe John Brown was a madman. Many people believe that he was a martyr because he died for the freedom of slaves. But, he didn't free any slaves during his coarse of action. Also, he caused the deaths of many people. He murdered pro-slave advocates in Kansas Territory. Him and his followers killed a free black man, which went against everything they were working for. Another reason was because he didn't bring food to his attack on the arsenal. Any sane person would've brought food, so this proves his mental state was not where it should have been. Furthermore, he didn't tell the fugitive slaves he was working with about any of his plans, and he demanded for George Washington's sword. It can be seen that John Brown was madman because he didn't free any slaves, he was murderous, and he was not in good mental condition.
ReplyDeleteJordyn VM
Period 3-4 A
John Brown is a prime example of controversial. On one side he is a martyr and hero. On the other he is a madman. Everyone has their own opinion about Brown. After reading chapter 10 of "War Terrible War" by Joy Hakim and watching the video "John Brown's Raid in American Memory" I have come to the conclusion that John Brown was a martyr. He was martyr with good intentions but he just didn't see how to help the slaves any other way. John Brown befriended fugitive slaves and funded antislavery pamphlets published by blacks with his own money. I will agree that he had his faults. He brutally murdered five pro slavery Kansans, planned a guerrilla war, planned an uprising, and raided a town. all of these were awful but behind them was good reasoning. That doesn't make it better, but it does mean something. The night before the raid Brown said this to his followers, "We have one life to live, and one to die, and if we lose our lives it will perhaps do more for the cause than our lives would be worth in any other way." A man who thinks that should not be considered a madman. That is a man who follows is brave and has courage. Besides we are all a little bit crazy, John Brown was just extra crazy.
ReplyDelete~Kaylee G period 3/4 A
According to historical evidence, I believe that John Brown was a madman. Although many people saw him as a hero, other taught he was a crazy person. In the video “John Brown’s Raid in American Memory,” is states that “At Pottawatomie, Brown led a group that brutally murdered five pro slavery settlers.” This evidence from the video shows that Brown killed innocent people who believed in slavery. John Brown was also killing people who owned slaves, even though he was an abolitionist, he should have found a more peaceful way to help the slaves gain freedom. His men killed an innocent railroad worker along with a few other people when they panicked at Harpers Ferry.
ReplyDelete-Alanis C. 3/4A
Yes, he was a "crazy person", but he still had done many additionally good things. I do however believe he's a psychopath. I do not think any hero would be this violent, especially towards many innocent people. Loving your explanation, so detailed.
Delete~Dena Jelvani 10-11A
John brown to most people was a Martyr or a Madman. I read chapter 10 "War, Terrible War," and watched the video “John Brown’s Raid in American Memory”. After reading the chapter and watching the video I think John Brown is a madman. In the chapter it stated " He brutally murdered five pro slavery Kansans." It also said "he stole guns to give to the slaves for them to kill there masters" and then he killed an innocent, free black man. I believe that John Brown was a serious Madman.
ReplyDeleteSarah Galyas
Period 3-4 A
John Brown was not a martyr, he was a madman. He may have given up his life for the greater good. In the book "War, Terrible War" Joy Hakim even states that he helped fund antislavery pamphlets published by blacks. Though Brown did those things he also brutally murdered many people as stated in "War, Terrible War". When John Brown's cause started to grow he sent his followers to take George Washington's sword for himself. In his plan for a slave uprising, it was most likely that Brown wanted to die. He did not bring any food or even tell a single slave about his plot. What John Brown did was an an act that was not only courageous but wise. John Brown's plan was for the greater good. Brown took his plan too far though which is why I refuse to call him a martyr.
ReplyDeleteMatthew Rozinski-Period 3-4A
I believe that John Brown was a madman but also a martyr. I believe he was a madman because he brutally murdered 5 pro slavery people, he accidentally killed an African american worker, and he believed that God wanted him to kill all of those people. However he could have been a Martyr because he gave money to slaves to help them and he was talking about how if he was doing this for white people they would think he is a hero but since he was doing it for black he was crazy.
ReplyDeleteJohn Brown, The Martyr of slaves everywhere. This man was an abolitionist who believed in his cause as a freeing all slaves in the United States. He was revered as a hero when he killed 5 pro slavery men in Kansas. after freeing over 20 slaves he then proceeded to take the armory and supply the slaves with weapons. He did let a train that passed by go letting many tell of the event. He might of been a little crazy but he had the slaves interest at heart
ReplyDeleteBased on the historical evidence I believe that John Brown is a martyr. I think this because he was only fighting for a cause. He was trying to help free the slaves. In Kansas when he murdered those five proslavery people, it was because he was really passionate in helping the slaves, so they can be free and so they don’t have to face the harsh punishment they are already facing. He was trying to raise a slave rebellion. So he had to go to get guns. They took rifles and a bunch of other supplies from the federal arsenal at Harpers Ferry, Virginia. I will admit this was a little crazy, but they were still able to do it. According to the video it states, “They intended to confiscate rifles and launch a massive slave insurrection to free the nation’s 4 million slaves.” This quote shows that he didn’t want to do any harm to people he just wanted to let them be free to do what they want to do. Unfortunately, Brown was found guilty of treason and murder and was hanged. Therefore, John Brown did crazy things he still was a very important person.
ReplyDeleteMatt C 3-4A
After reading chapter 10 and analyzing the video, I can say that John Brown was a clear madman with good intentions. I think that John Brown was clearly a man with a good idea that I think is right, but similar to what Lincoln had once said, he took it too far. If John Brown had been a leader in the end of slaves, yet had taken on a more peaceful way, then I would see him as a martyr. Because of his sickening thoughts, he is, however, a madman. Additionally, I think that he is a madman due to his mental state. I think that he was mentally ill and did not understand what he was saying. There is a lot of controversial towards this. He had no clue what his actions were doing to his surroundings, and he was not thinking straight. Also, his actions in Kansas clearly prove his madman acts. "randomly" Brown and his men "brutally murdered," as said in the video, 5 innocent men. They were pro slavery, which made them some what bad, but they did nothing physically wrong. This just goes to show you how much Brown did not think. This leads me to believe he is a madman.
ReplyDeleteHaley Nicholas
Period 10-11 A
I agree with you half of the way. I believe you are right saying that he had good intentions - with that I agree. I still however do not believe he was a madman. Yes, he killed people. In the big picture, he led the end to slavery all together. So would you rather have 5 lives taken and end slavery or still have it as a problem today? I feel that his actions had a really good purpose behind them. I also do not recall that he was mentally unstable. If you can find where you found that please let me know because that changes everything around to work in your favor. I praise your post though because I feel you touched up on many points others never made.
DeleteSara D. 10-11 A
John Brown was not a mad man, he was a martyr. Many facts prove this. From our book, it states, "In the 1030's and 1840's, John Brown befriended fugitive slaves and helped to fund antislavery pamphlets published by blacks." This means that he helped pay for this. Our chapter also states that he commissioned a Connecticut blacksmith to make 1000 iron pikes to arm rebellious slaves, but he never actually got that far. But really, the only reason that he did all of this was to help the slaves. Many people may disagree with me, but he did do a lot of great things to help the slaves. For example, if he did that to help the white people, everyone would think that he is a hero, but just because he did it for the (black) slaves, it wasn't right. This goes to prove that every white thought that they were better than everyone else. Maybe he wasn't a "normal" man. Something that proves this fact is when he went for his death, (was guilty and committed treason) he wasn't the least bit worried, or concerned. He fought for what he believed in, and in his mind, that was the right thing.
ReplyDelete~Adriana S Period 10-11 A
I believe that John Brown is a martyr, but one that took it too far. Based on historical evidence, he robbed, killed, and plotted to steal an ancient sword. He did all this to get his point noticed, to free the slaves. Even if he wanted to get his point noticed, he didn't have to kill innocent civilians just to drag attention to him. He also never told the slaves about his mission for them, meaning that the slaves had no time to figure out how to help him or themselves. He was doing it for a good cause though. He had no choice but to resort to violence, because back then, people wouldn't really listen to peaceful protests. According to the book, he was killed for treason and unfortunately, this was a good reason. He had stolen from his own countries government when he took over the arsenal. In that same trial, he said that if he was doing this for the whites, it would be okay. He would be a very good martyr, as he did what he had to do in order to get the slaves attention, even if it was a little too far.
ReplyDeleteNoah V 10-11A
Based on historic evidence, I think John Brown was a martyr. I think this because he stood up for slave's rights to be treated like an actual person, and not someones property. He wanted to show a point so he went to Harper's Ferry and took it over. He was eventually caught and was sentenced to death for treason and murder.
ReplyDeleteKyle S 10-11A
Based on all of the reaction that were given. John Brown was a martyr. He tried to free innocent people from terrible punishment. What he did was wrong and a sad tragedy but was necessary. If people had listened to him early then this may have been avoided. The other tragedy he caused by Brown was completely unacceptable. Murdered five innocent people for only their beliefs. There was no need for this as there was for the arsenal capturing. He was a good man who made a bad choice.
ReplyDeleteEddie F 10/11 A
After Learning about John Brown, I believe that he is a Martyr. Yeah he killed many people but he did it for a good cause. Before he got hung he was confident and happy. He was about to die but he was happy because he knew he was right and knew people would think more about what he said. John Brown said, “I, John Brown am now quite certain that the crimes of this guilty land will never be purged away but with blood.” This was hinting at the Civil War which happened two years after this.
ReplyDeleteTommy T.
P:10/11A
Based on this historical evidence I believe that John brown was a madman. Though he did believe that slaves should be free,he did many bad things along the way towards that goal. In chapter 10 "War, Terrible War," He brutally murdered 5 people in Kansas who were pro slavery. He planned an attack in Virginia, which was thought hopeless and he did not bring food and he had kept the attack a secret, from the black slaves in which he wanted them to rebel. He took rifles in order to give slaves a chance to kill their masters. While on the way one of John Brown's men panicked and accidentally killed a free black man. Later he sent men to Lewis W. Washington's home, relative to George Washington, to retrieve George Washington's sword from the Revolutionary war. He also took the man captive. Eventually this madman was caught. When he went to trail he laid down on a cot during the trial, supposedly due to the cuts on his head. He also was a good story teller and he used this ability to try to escape his punishment. This fails and he was sent to execution and was hanged. Although many people see him as a Martyr, there are a lot of things that would make him a madman attacking his own country.
ReplyDeleteMorgan Seidler 10-11A
To me John Brown is a martyr. He is a martyr because of all of the things he did trying to help the u.s understand where they are wrong. He wanted to end slavery. He was fighting for slavery. He led himself and "the secret six" to the government arsenal trying to rob them of their guns and take them and bring them to slaves to kill their plantation owners. But was unsuccessful and was captured. He was put on trial and was found guilty of treason and murder. On his way to his death he stated “This is a beautiful country.". He said this calmly like he didn't care that he was about to die. He was hung. To me John Brown did some crazy things but was a important person.
ReplyDeleteLiam Tomkins
10-11A
Based on analyzing the video and both texts, I believe that John Brown is not a madman, but a Martyr. I believe this because I think that although Brown killed some innocent people and wounded many other, I still think that he had the right idea that slavery was not ok and something needed to be done about it. The video “John Brown’s Raid in American Memory” states, “He said slavery was wrong” and “He is considered a Martyr because he is opened a way to emancipation.” Emancipation means to set something to be legal. So clearly he did not intend to hurt anyone, Brown just made some mistakes along the way of making America a free country where everyone no matter who or what they are, are the same. The article, “Harpers Ferry” also states, “Brown would have launched guerrilla activity in the Virginia mountains, providing a haven for slaves and an escape route into the North.” Brown’s idea was to help slaves get free, and he must of known along the way he was going to have to some bad things in order the help america, not destroy it and make it a bloody war all day, he knew that there had to be at least one war to end all of slavery. This war would end up being the Civil War.
ReplyDeleteJames B 10/11 A
Based on the evidence from the text and video I believe that John Brown was a martyr. I believe this because all he wanted to do was free slaves and make the United States a better place. John funded anti slavery and even teamed up with them when he took over the Arsenal. John Brown said that the american people were hypocritical because if what he did was for the whites he would be a hero but since he did it for the blacks he was a villain. After almost everything that John Brown had done he always recited back to the holy bible. This is why I think John Brown is a martyr and not a madman.
ReplyDeleteRobert Spears 10/11 A
After researching information about John Brown, I have come to the conclusion that he is a martyr. Mr.Brown was fighting for a cause and that was that there should be no such things as slaves. You may think he is crazy but like he said in his note if I were saving the white people, it would be OK. He was doing it for the whole country, he knew that he had to stop slavery now or there would be a huge battle. AKA the Civil War, all he did was try to end it before he started. John Brown is definitely a martyr in my eyes, this is a conversational
ReplyDeleteMichael F P:10/11 A
Based on the historical evidence that was provided, I believe John Brown was a madman. Brown had good intentions regarding him being anti slavery, but did not know how to execute his intentions properly. His plans resulted into several encounters with violence, and innocent civilians being murdered. For example, when John Brown, and his 21 followers planned to invade the Harper Ferry. John Brown tried to secretly, invade this government site so he could hand out the weapons it provided to slaves, and cause a slave uprising. But there was a flaw in his plan, he never told any slaves about his plan. This resulted in local civilians thinking it was a robbery. From this, four civilians were killed by Brown's men , and several others were severally injured. Also, during the process of this a freed African- American was killed. Another example of Brown resulting in violence, is when he killed five pro slavery men. He brutality murdered five innocent men, just because they were pro slavery. Overall, I believe he had a good designated motive, but caused to much violence. Without John Brown, the Civil War might not have happened.
ReplyDeleteDrew M.
Period-10-11-A
You're one of the only people that thought of John Brown as a madman, and although I thought he was a martyr, I think you proved your argument very well! With details like this, you could definitely have some competition of who would win the argument (If that makes any sense)
Delete~Gabriella Lewald Period 3/4 A Day
John Brown was not a madman; he was a martyr. John Brown made an effort to free the slaves, and even though he didn't succeed with his raid, he made the government begin to reconsider slavery. Evidence from both the textbook and the video support this claim. For example, the book states that in the 1830's and 40's, John brown befriended many fugitive slaves and helped to fund antislavery pamphlets published by African Americans. This shows that Brown truly did befriend slaves, and tried to help them push for freedom. Also, the video states that Brown was eulogized as a martyr by many northerners. Even though many people hated him, there were still some that believed he was a good man. Finally, it was said that Brown was the beginning of the war against slavery. However, John Brown did go a bit too far with his raids. For example the textbook stated that he killed five, innocent, pro-slavery Kansans. He and his men killed innocent people. Also, the video stated that 4 civilians were killed at his raids. Even though John brown had good intentions and can be considered a martyr, he went too far with the raids.
ReplyDeleteCameron C 10-11B
Based on historical evidence that was provided, I believe that John Brown was a martyr. A passage written by Joy Hakim states, "in the 1830's through 1840's, John Brown befriended fugitive slaves and helped to fund anti-slavery pamphlets published by blacks." This quote explains Brown's stance on slavery, which in my opinion, is agreeable. John Brown was a religious man. He quoted the Bible and acted as if god had chosen him. It is quite possible that his actions were influenced by the Bible and the words of god, which is most likely (not always) not influencing a "madman" tendency. The video and book by Hakim explain how John Brown was trying to unite all slaves to rebel against the government. I feel that his actions were necessary. With guns you many ask? In this case, I do believe they did the right thing by stealing guns from an armory and shooting. Now, don't get me wrong. I'm not saying that you should go around shooting people that don't agree with you, but sometimes in history the only way to really get the point across was through violence. This man had great intentions - the way he presented them is another story. I think we can all agree that his heart was in the right place and that blood needed to be shed to end the practice of slavery. It was worth a few lives to end the practice in my opinion. I respect this man because he died modestly. On the way to his death, he complimented the beauty of the world, and how it was amazing he could see such amazing sights. I praise him for staying positive moment before he would pass away. His final words were also honorable and spectacular. He explained how the solution would never be solved unless he did what he did (basically what I explained before). In a nutshell, he predicted the Civil war. I believe that this mad was honorable and he was a remarkable person, the only critique I can think of is that he should have used guns and weaponry as a last resort. It is safe to say at the end of the day that John Brown was indeed a martyr.
ReplyDeleteSara D. 10-11 A
John Brown was a madman. He was right in ending slavery but his methods were questionable. With great interest, he pursued to end slavery but in the process killed many. Along time before the war he was killing 5 farmers who were pro-slavery. It was a heinous crime. He believed that stealing George Washington's sword would aid him in his quest to free the slaves as did George Washington free the US. He was collecting money for an invasion. It was foolish and morally wrong. It can be comparable if Hitler was collecting money for encampments. Before his death, he was reportedly calm. Talking about the view and other mindless things. He may have been thinking about ending slavery, but at what cost.
ReplyDeleteNick D
3-4 (B)
I totally agree with what you are trying to say. But I would also like to say how he told his slave to kill their owners. That is a terrible thing to say. No one should be killing anyone. You also didn't mention how he also wanted to steal George Washington's sword. If he didn't lie, steal, or cheat, Mr. Brown would be a good man. But other then that I agree with you one hundred percent. He was definitely a madman.
Delete~Amanda B
John Brown was a martyr. In my honest opinion he sparked the end of slavery. Some of his methods were well out of the question, such as his raids which are spoken of in both the article and the film. But without those raids, there would have been no Civil War. Without a Civil War where would we be? I in no way believe that what John Brown did to pro slavery owners was justified. But John Brown helped put an end to slavery.
ReplyDeleteChris M.
3-4 B
After reading the chapter 10 "John Brown's Body" , reading "The Impending Crisis", after watching the video "John Brown's Raid in American Memory" I saw that John Brown was an interesting man. Very very interesting. He was definitely someone who you would question yourself to be friends with. He wasn't the most calmest person on Earth. To begin, he found five people who were for slavery. Then after that he killed them since he hated slavery. He can't just go killing people out of the random and nor can anyone. Also on his free time he stole a couple of guns to use. When he was stealing the guns he got nervous and shot a free slave that was Native American. He had a huge bad habit of shooting people. After that he wanted to steel George Washington's sword. If he didn't lie, steal, or cheat he would be a great man. But he also gave slaves guns and told them to shoot their slave owners. He was a good man because he payed to publish books for people who couldn't afford it and began to be friends with slaves. If he didn't do any bad stuff, he could have stopped slavery.
ReplyDelete~Amanda B
Many people argue that John Brown was a martyr or a madman, but I believe he lied in the middle, based on historical fact. His whole idea was to plan a revolution against slavery, which was very smart, but he took
ReplyDeleteit out of proportion. He did this by killing 5 pro slavery Kansas men, also known as bloody Kansas. Although he also did many good things for slaves, like when he would befriend slaves and help them fund anti slavery pamphlets (we learned about this in the book). But he also killed an innocent African American worker, and tried to invade the American Arsenal. But he did this to give slaves weapons to run away. But he did lie to the court basically by acting, but before he died he predicted that what he did was right and his plans would be put into action. I believe brown was neither a martyr or a madman, but lied in the middle
-Dharma M.
Period 3/4 B
Very good points.
DeleteAlex L
This comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteI agree with you, Dharma. When it comes to making change it is hard to find the line of what is okay to achieve a great goal in the long-run. However, Brown crossed this line quickly. He should have planned his goals more.
DeleteMegan F 10/11B.^
DeleteJohn Brown was a Martyr. Brown believed in fighting for what he believes in, which is amazing. Brown was willing to die for what he believed in. John was a huge anti-slavery activist, as it states in the video, and would do anything to stop slavery. Even though people would think he's a terrorist, he was doing it for a reason. He predicted that a war would happen if this didn't stop. Which he was right about. He didn't want war, he just wanted to free the slaves, which many people agreed with. Lots, or all, of the people in the north agreed with him, even if they had to o extreme. He may have gone over board on somethings, but wouldn't we all if it mean't we could stop something bad. So, John Brown was indeed a martyr
ReplyDelete~Matt Wilson 3-4 B
I believe that John Brown was a Martyr. He helped all of those slaves get free. You can argue he killed 5 innocent people who wanted slavery, according to chapter 10. But all of those slave owners beat and killed their slaves. With no penalty. How is that fair? He started that uprising because he knew that slavery was wrong and that even though he was going to die it was worth it. He also helped them in non violent ways before this. He paid them to publish their writing, according to chapter 10. They charged him as a traitor, for fighting for slaves. The North and South broke apart did the North kill all of the southerns? The answer is , no. They killed him for all of these things but the southerns did the exact same thing. Making them non credible. That is why John Brown is a Martyr.
ReplyDeleteEnrico Astorino 3-4 B
Based on the historical evidence that was provided, I believe that John Brown was a martyr. As much as he did bad he still did a lot good. More good than bad in my opinion. This man had great intentions, the way he tried to achieve them is completely different. He did not do what he wanted but in my opinion he had began the war that ended slavery, it says that in the video also. He befriended fugitive slaves which basically means he became friends with run away slaves. He had also helped fund a slave pamphlet created by an African American. He did not care too much about dying because he died for what he believed in. He had predicted the civil war and in my opinion is the reason for it.
ReplyDeleteBased on the Historical evidence that was provided, I have came to the conclusion that John Brown is a martyr. I think this because John Brown fought for a cause, and he tried to free slaves. In chapter 10 in the textbook, it states, "He befriended fugitive slaves and helped to fund antislavery pamphlets published by blacks." Even though Brown killed many people but he did it for a good cause. Before he got hung he was confident, happy, and had no fear of being killed. On the way to his death, he complimented the beauty of the world, and how it was amazing he could see such beautiful sights throughout his life.
ReplyDelete~Katelyn Reid
Perio: 3/4 B
Based on the historical evidence that was provided, I believe that John Brown was a martyr. As much as he did bad he still did a lot good. More good than bad in my opinion. This man had great intentions, the way he tried to achieve them is completely different. He did not do what he wanted but in my opinion he had began the war that ended slavery, it says that in the video also. He befriended fugitive slaves which basically means he became friends with run away slaves. He had also helped fund a slave pamphlet created by an African American. He did not care too much about dying because he died for what he believed in. He had predicted the civil war and in my opinion is the reason for it.
ReplyDeleteThomas Barnao period 3/4
I believe that John Brown did many things to help get rid of slavery but he committed terrible crimes while doing so. In Kansas he was a man that was very against slavery. He lived in a state which was in battle over whether to become a free state or a slave state. He was trying to support his cause when he got a group together and brutally murdered 5 pro slavery supporters. according to the film “John Brown's Raid In American Memory” It says that he didn't just shoot the men he killed , he brutally beat them to death. This shows that he was supporting the right cause but he committed a large crime along with it. He also committed treason when he tried to organise a slave rebellion. He and his 21 followers went and took an arsenal building and were going to supply the slaves weapons to become free , according to the video “John Brown's Raid In American Memory”. This shows that he was a man that fought hard for his cause but he also deserved to be hanged because of the crimes that he committed.
ReplyDeleteTJ Latore
p 3-4 A
After learning about John brown's story I believe that he is a Martyr. He is a Martyr because he is fighting for the cause of slavery. If he was killing people for no reason than he would be insane. The plan he made was to free all the slaves, so he was just trying to let the slaves live better lives than being forced to do things. He may have killed people who didn't need to die but at least he tried to end slavery and make the United States a better place.
ReplyDeleteNick Ainbinder Period 3-4
A lot of debate goes into whether John Brown is a madman,or a martyr. In my point of view I see John Brown as a martyr. This man had stated that he respected everyone, and he then befriended many run away slaves. Brown had planned many actions to occur in this part of time, and they didn't go smoothly. There were so many people against him because they saw him with only his acts of insanity. I myself do think it was a bit on the crazy side to kill five Kansans, but John Brown certainly did go through with a lot more positive actions rather than negative. As it states in the film, "John Brown's Raid in American Memory", it didn't hesitate to add, "He began the war that ended slavery, without John Brown the Civil War would have not began." This is a huge part of why it is safe to say that John Brown is a martyr. Civil War is easily one of the most effective part of history, and if John Brown was not there to start it we would be doomed at this point. Finally, John Brown was very calm about his death, which definitely shows true heroism. So with all that has been gone through, John Brown should be clarified as a Martyr.
ReplyDeleteJulia G. 3-4(B)
Based on the historical evidence provided, I believe that John Brown was a Martyr, but one that took it too far. For example, according to chapter 10 in "War, Terrible War", it says that John Brown risked his life to end slavery by going on rampages, or as he called it, "slavery uplifting". Even though he was willing to go to the extreme to end slavery, Brown still took it too far. In the video entitled “John Brown’s Raid in American Memory”, it states that John Brown killed quite a few innocent civilians, including on African- American man. This proves that John Brown was too extreme because innocent people were killed in the process of his protest, including someone who was once a slave. In conclusion, agreeing with Abraham Lincoln, although John Brown was too out of hand, he still had the right idea.
ReplyDeleteAlex L
3-4B
I agree
DeleteDharma M
Based on the Historical evidence provided from the articles and video, I believe that John Brown was a martyr. I think this because he did everything he could to try and end slavery. I will say that he did some pretty crazy things, such as killing people who were for slaves, and sent his group to go find Washington's sword. That does not compare to what he did to stop slavery. John brown was extremely against slavery. According to chapter ten of War, Terrible War by Joy Hakim, John Brown befriended runaway slaves and helped to fund antislavery by blacks. HE also was not very upset about dying, he was not in a panic or nervous, he was calm. I respect this man a lot for what he tried to do. Some people may think he was crazy for this but I disagree. John Brown had a plan to capture the federal arsenal at Harper's Ferry, Virginia, and arm slaves from surrounding country side. Before he died, he said “I, John Brown am now quite certain that the crimes of this guilty land will never be purged away but with blood.” according to chapter ten. John was absolutely right. Slavery ended in thew Civil War. Another quote from Brown was "Had I so interfered in behalf of the rich, the powerful, the intelligent, the so-called great, or in behalf of their friends…and suffered and sacrificed what I have in this interference…every man in this court would have deemed it worthy of reward rather than punishment.” Meaning if he had done all of this for the white people everyone would love him but since he did it for blacks, he was hated. Even with all of the crazy things John Brown may have done, I still respect the good thing she has done and I believe he will always be a martyr.
ReplyDeleteGrace S. 3-4B
I totally agree with you Grace. You included great textual evidence that helped you prove that John Brown is a martyr.
Delete~Katelyn Reid
Period: 3/4 B
Based on the evidence found John Brown was both a martyr and a madman. He had good beliefs that all 4 million slaves should be free. He would make friends with slaves and make flyers about anti slavery. However, he decided to go to drastic measures to prove his point. In the video, “John Brown’s Raid in American Memory”, it states John brown and a group of people went out in Kansas and butchered 5 people who were for slavery. He then wanted to take a military armory and give the weapons to slaves to free themselves. During this process he ended up taking several hostages and held them in the armory. In chapter 10 titled "War, Terrible War" it states that while they took the armory a train came by which startled the untrained men and they ended up accidentally killing a free African American. Later on when news of what was going one spread and soldiers and militia men began to come and 4 civilians were killed and 12 of John Brown's men were killed. John was then captured by the military and was interrogated. He was very giving about his plan and what he was trying to do. Despite his efforts of pleading not guilty he was still found guilty and hung for his crimes. However he has not died for nothing. After his death he inspired many to go against slavery and that led to the Revolutionary War. These are reasons why John Brown was both a madman and a martyr.
ReplyDeleteCarlos Fraga 3-4B
I believe from the historical events that John Brown was a martyr. He became friends with run away slaves although he murdered five people. On the other hand, he collected money for the Northern invasion. Also, he desperately wanted slavery to end and some people thought that he was African American even though he was not. He went to trial and was pleaded guilty and was hanged. In the video it states that without John Brown the civil war would not have happened and he should be remembered. This is why John Brown is considered a martyr.
ReplyDeleteAfter analyzing all of the sources you can determine that John Brown was a martyr. Although, John Brown did murder a group of people because the were for slavery I still believe that he was showing that slavery cant go on anymore and it needs to stop.Before any of the crazy stuff happened,"John Brown befriended fugitive slaves and helped to fund antislavery pamphlets published by blacks," says the chapter 10 Johns Brown Body. People still hear his name with emotion without John Brown the civil war probably wouldn't have happened and our country wouldn't be the way it is today. Twelve of Brown;s twenty-one men were dead, five including Brown were hanged. After reading and listening to all of the evidence provided you can see that John Brown is a martyr not a Madman
ReplyDeleteBrianna L
3-4B
I believe that John Brown was a martyr because he tried to free the slaves but died in the process. Also chapter 10 in the history of us says that he befriended fugitive slaves and helped fund anti slavery pamphlets. He also rose an uprising of slaves at an armory by taking it over. he succeeded but then it got taken back and he was hung. He died for a good cause which is why he is a martyr.
ReplyDeletegavin lindsay 3-4 B
ReplyDeleteI think that John Brown was a Madman. This is because he murdered 5 people brutally who were pro-slavery. Even though they weren't really innocent, this conflict could've ended peacefully. Also, in the video, it says they were "chopped to pieces". That shows that John Brown was mad enough to do such a horrible thing. He also brought 21 people to start what would've been a bloody slave uprising. In the video, it says that 4 innocent people were murdered in Brown and his men's attempt to capture the federal arsenal. These further show how Brown must have been crazy to do such things. Therefore, John Brown was a Madman.
ReplyDeleteVeronica Enny 10/11 B
I think John Brown is a mad man. Stated in chapter 10 in the book History of US he killed people against slavery, and planned a gorilla war. Another, thing this crazy man did was never told his plans to the slaves that worked for him. Then, later in chapter 10 of the History of US book it said that Brown lied often. A video called John Brown's Raid in American Memory also says Browns men killed and wounded several civilians. Many people in the book of History of US and video said without John Brown the Civil War might not of happened which proves that John Brown is a madman.
ReplyDeleteJJ S
10-11 B
After reading chapter 10 of "War Terrible War", by Joy Hakim and watching the video,"John Brown's Raid In American Memory", I think that John Brown was a martyr because he tried really hard to free the slaves, even though he knew if something went wrong he could possibly die. He made friends with fugitive slaves and helped publish anti slavery pamphlets. Some people think John Brown was an enemy, but he was trying to free slaves and then he died of a good cause. That is why he is a Martyr.
ReplyDeleteAngelina Oteri
10-11 B
Based on the information in in Chapter 10 of War, Terrible War by Joy Hakim, the video entitled “John Brown’s Raid in American Memory” on the Virginia Historical Society’s website, and the article “The Impending Crisis,” on page 20, I think John Brown is a madman. I think this because he tried to raid Harper’s Ferry to get loads of guns for untrained black slaves so they can be free. John Brown may not know what the master might have done to them so the slaves might kill their masters for enslaving them. John Brown also ordered a blacksmith to make 1,000 iron pikes to give to the slaves to use as weapons. He also wanted to have the sword George Washington’s great great nephew had as a signed of being a fighter for freedom. John Brown believed that he was the new fighter of freedom and wanted to take the sword for himself. He held hostages just so he could have the sword he thought he rightfully deserved.
ReplyDeleteTyler Kline 10-11B
I believe that John Brown was a madman because he wanted attention and was just insane. John Brown was an actor who fooled a lot of people into thinking his actions were just. His actions were far from just because he was killing innocent men just because he wanted to free slavery. People agreed with John Brown but he went about it the wrong way with unorthodox procedures. John Brown's plan for capturing the fort was not very thought out because no slaves were told about the uprising and John Brown's army of twenty one men were not prepared for the entire navy and army of the United States. John Brown was just a madman looking for attention.
ReplyDeleteDanny L 10/11 B
Was John Brown a martyr or a madman?
ReplyDeleteI solely believe John Brown as a madman. Yes, he did help blacks who were enslaves, but that doesn't stop his actions which were violent. First of all, he brutally murdered five proslavery Kansans. Slavery is not correct, but neither is murder. Second of all, he attacks the federal arsenal in Virginia WITHOUT a plan. No food, no correct weaponry, not telling slaves beforehand, etc. And, as Abraham Lincoln states, "That cannot excuse violence, bloodshed, and treason" (58). Lincoln himself even states that what he did is wrong, and he was on the side of anti-slavery. The thing is, the Civil War wouldn't have been caused without John Brown, and that means we wouldn't have a huge change in how the U.S. works currently.
-Joseph Barrese
10-11 B
I think John Brown is a martyr because he tried to help slaves escape, he only wanted to incite slave insurrection throughout the south without starting a war, and his raid continues to inspire people about the issues with liberation, justice, vigilantism and terrorism. The book and the video said that the Civil War probably wouldn't have started without him and slaves would most likely still be around today if the war hadn't happened. So that proves that John Brown was a martyr.
ReplyDeleteJohn Brown is definitely a topic of controversy. Many saw him as a martyr, but many saw him as a madman. After reading chapter 10 and watching the video I have to agree with Abraham Lincoln's quote, "Old John Brown has been executed for treason against a state. We cannot object, even though he agreed with us thinking slavery was wrong. That can not excuse violence, bloodshed, and treason."
ReplyDeleteThis is saying that we agreed with what John Brown was saying but we did not like the way he chose to do something about it. The things John Brown did definitely made him look like a madman. He chopped 5 people up into pieces! Also when he was walking up the steps to get hanged he was calm or maybe even proud. These things definitely proved that he was mentally unstable.
Sarah Guthrie 10-11 B
Based on the historical evidence provided, I believe that John Brown was a martyr. Martyrs fight for what they believe in for their country and that's what he did. On the other hand I agree that he took to too far and did things that he didn't have to. For example, according to chapter 10 in The New Nation, John Brown risked his life to end slavery by going on rebellions, or "slavery uplifting". It was great that he was willing to go to the extreme to end slavery, the extreme was just too far. As noted in the video, John Brown had this great idea, but didn't tell the slaves. How are you supposed to make a slavery uprising with no slaves? It's almost as though Brown was suffering from some awful disease because he really didn't seem to care as much as you would think. According to the book, he didn't seem to care when he was being hanged. He also ran out into the streets and brutally murdered five adults who were in favor of slavery. Also at another uprising, four more people were murdered by him and his crew, not to mention the accidental slave who was killed. Getting rid of slavery was right but how is killing a couple of people going to do that? I think that he should have followed a path that Martin Luther King Jr would soon take, no violence.
ReplyDeleteClare S.
Period 10-11B
Based on historical evidence from the video, and text book chapter 10 of "War terrible war". I am to believe that John Brown was indeed a madman. Abraham Lincoln said that brown had the right motive which I totally agree with. The cause he fought for was 100% right, but the way he fought for it was wrong, I am still agreeing with Abraham Lincoln. The men he collected were not train soldiers, they panicked and killed an innocent man. But not any man a free black man, they went against their own cause. He was also already a wanted criminal, he didn't die a martyr he died a murderer. In Kansas during the bloody Kansas war, he chased down and brutally killed five men. The men were pro slavery but that doesn't mean that they have the right to die. Then after killing five men he ran from the law. Then in court he not only lied, but said " To shoot a man is like to shoot a buck" if that is not sounding crazy what is. He also used Christianity to try to escape punishment. Also when he attacked the armory he held hostages, when you are trying to be the good guy don't hold hostages! Over all John brown was an insane human being.
ReplyDelete- Morgan McCormack Period 10-11 B
After reading chapter 10 and watching the film showed ask your self this question, Is John Brown really a bad guy? Can you remember his true purpose? that's right he did not want to kill, in fact he wanted to free the slaves and make them join him. John Brown even provided money to help with the anti-slavery movement.His intentional idea was in the right place but ended up in the wrong way. He may of came off "insane" to some but every thought he acted that way to threaten the people who went against him.Although he was caught and sentence to death, he stayed strong and faced the true he wanted to do good but he failed but when he did fail it went everywhere living the question in your head.Is he a bad guy? Is slavery wrong? and most importantly if many can try to rebel such as he.
ReplyDeleteSarah Grover 10-11-B
In the time while John Brown was "abolishing" slavery, and attacking Harpers Ferry, he thought he was doing something great for his country. But as Abraham Lincoln said, he went about it all wrong. His drive and intentions were there... just not his plan. I believe he was insane because of this reason. John Brown planned on taking in rebellious slaves, making them part of his plan and taking them on his long journey of abolishing slavery. However, he did not tell a single slave about his intentions and plans. Abraham denounced Brown's raid as an act of "Violence, bloodshed, and treason." According to the article "John Brown." Which proves that the man who freed slaves himself felt that a man with the same intentions as himself, was not going about it in the right way.
ReplyDelete-Kevin Langanke
P-10-11 B
John brown was a madman who did good causes, he had good points while freeing slaves. He could have freed them differently but he chose not to, what he did was choose the wrong way. If he handled it steadily maybe it could have went differently and not as many people would have died or maybe none at all. If we didn't have John Brown would we be where we are today? Maybe we could be slaves ourselves and be being ruled, we all wouldn't be equal and this would cause many problems and a tough living. Without John Brown the Civil war would have never began and than slaves would still be roaming the earth. John Brown was a attic for blood and fighting but he ended it with a good cause. He shouldn't have been hung on December 2nd 1859. The Virginia Government should have wait to hear the case, yes they heard one side but weren't understanding the meaning, they weren't getting hoe slaves felt they should been equal along time ago. I would like to thank John Brown for being a crazy hero but helping his people when not everyone noticed it.
ReplyDeleteKelly Davis 10-11 B
John Brown believed that slavery was inhuman and tried to eradicate it from the United States a few years prior to the Civil War. He was hanged and, in my opinion, died a Martyr. According to the textbook, Liberty For All?, in the 1830's and 1840's he befriended escaped slaves, funding their anti-slavery pamphlets. Also, he fought against people who were pro-slavery in Kansas. Later, John Brown paid, with his own money, for one thousand knives to be made in order to help slaves fight their way to freedom. When Brown attacked Harper's Ferry he stood his ground in the armory. In addition, his case that he wasn't guilty may have been made dramatic in order to draw attention to how wrong slavery was. Abraham Lincoln even agreed with his premise, simply saying that he carried it out in a more brutal way than necessary. Furthermore, the video, “John Brown’s Raid in American Memory,” stated that without John Brown the Civil War may have never happened and slaves would not have been freed.
ReplyDeleteJack S
10/11 B
Based of the historical evidence provided in Chapter 10 of War Terrible War by Joy Hakim and the video, many people can argue about whether John Brown was a martyr or a madman. Although both claims can be argued well, I think that John Brown is a martyr. He was an antislavery man, and he believed that slavery was completely wrong. He helped fugitive slaves, and started a slavery uprising. Although sometimes he took fighting for what he believed in a little too far, he had a strong belief that slaves should be free, and fought to the death. He was called "Fighter for Christ" by Victor Hugo. He was hanged along with five other members of the group he protested and fought with, but he knew that they would feel more of heroes than criminals. Joy Hakim quotes a statement made by Brown to his men the night before the raid. She quotes, "We have here only one life to live, and one to die; and if we lose our lives it will perhaps do more for the cause than our lives would be worth in any other way." This shows that he was willing to do anything for the freedom of slaves, whether it meant dying in the process of it. To conclude, the details of him being a martyr outweigh the details of him being a madman.
ReplyDelete~Gabriella L. Period 3/4 A Day
Based off the video and the reading on John Brown, I came to the conclusion that he is martyr. A martyr is someone who is killed because of their beliefs, and that is exactly what happened. Although he may have taken some fights a little too far, he fought for a good cause. John Brown believed that slavery was cruel.He befriended fugitive slaves and helped pay for anti-slavery pamphlets. He and his sons murdered five Kansans who were in favor of slavery. What he did was wrong, but the reason behind what he did was right. He fueled the Civil War, which later ended slavery. So, if it weren’t for John Brown, there is a chance that slavery would still be going on to this day.
ReplyDeleteCali N.
10/11 A
After analyzing chapter 10 and the video I can say that John Brown was a Martyr. Even though he did a terrible thing taking over a federal arsenal, his mind was in the right place. He wanted to do something that could help the United States to become a better place. He befriended Slaves and helped them get to Canada, he fought for equal rights for slaves and he even put his own life in danger. If John Brown did not do what he did the Civil War might not even have happened or even some people would not care about what happened to slaves if it was not or him. So I believe that John Brown really is a Martyr, and not a madman.
ReplyDeleteChristopher M. Period 10/11A
After reading chapter 10 in the book War, Terrible War, by Joy Hakim and watching the video “John Brown's Raid in American Memory” I think that John Brown was a madman. In the book by Joy Hakim, it stated that he killed five men that wanted slavery to be allowed. It is against the law and his religion to kill, so, by committing this action, he was committing a sin and a crime. Also said in chapter 10, many of John Brown’s followers were trying to break into Colonel Lewis W. Washington’s house to steal a gun from him. This act would be considered stealing someone else's belongings. John Brown’s plan was to march into Virginia and start a guerrilla war. In addition, he wanted to steal weapons from Virginia! In my opinion, this is not a way a martyr would settle a problem. There are many other peaceful ways this problem could have been settled. John Brown was brought to court for his actions and was believed to be guilty. His punishment was to be put to death. When he was on his way to receive his sentence, he was completely calm and admired the environment around him. He acted as if nothing was wrong. Many others would not act this way if they knew they were going to die. After reading chapter 10 in War, Terrible War, and watching the video “John Brown's Raid in American Memory,” I believe that John Brown is a madman.
ReplyDelete-Lauren S.
10/11 A
After reading the chapter about John Brown I believe that he was a madman. At first his idea to help and fight for the slaves freedom tights was kind thought but John Brown took his plan to far. In the chapter we were told that John Brown led a small group of men to attack and eventually kid a group of pro-slavery men. This was a very wrong thing to do. His plan at the Harper ferry made John Brown more of a man man. John Brown and his group were planning on breaking into a weapon warehouse and take the weapons so he could give them to the slaves so they could free themselves and start uprisings to escape slavery. John Brown and his men's plan was soon found out and the Navy and Army came to stop John Brown . Only a few soldiers got shot but 12 of John Browns men were killed. John Brown was taken to court and was proven guilty. Many people including Abraham Lincoln thought Browns original idea was a caring idea but he took his plan too far. After reading the chapter and watching the video about John Brown I feel that John Brown was a mad man but his original thought was a considerate idea.
ReplyDeleteVienne Urban
10/11 A
After reading chapter 10 I think that John Brown was a madman. Having something against slavery is a good thing. The level that John Brown took it to was unacceptable. It would have been a good idea of going with his original plan and buy 100 pikes to hand to arm the slaves with. John Brown instead took over a military arsenal, killing innocent people which amongst those were slaves, and committed treason. I think John Brown, if now for his foolish mistakes would have been a great fighter in the civil war. However he must not have been in the right mind set as he took his sons with him to take over the arsenal. If was a smart man he would have never put his family in danger. This is why I think John Brown was a madman.
ReplyDeletePatryk Burdzy 10-11A
Based on the historical evidence in Chapter 10 of War, Terrible War by Joy Hakim, and the article “The Impending Crisis”, I believe that John Brown was a martyr, but went too far. Even though he did some terrible things, like killing 5 proslavery Kansans, he still did many other things that makes me look at him as a martyr. He helped runaway slaves and in the 1830s he befriended fugitive slaves. A martyr is someone who is killed because of their beliefs. That is exactly what happened to John Brown. He was killed because of his beliefs. It said in the article that “Brown denied that he had come to Virginia to commit violence. His only goal, he said, was to liberate the slaves.” All that John Brown wanted was slaves to be free and he fought hard for that. When he was fighting for freedom I think he went to far and that is why some people look at him like he was a madman. As a final point I think that John brown was a martyr, not a madman and if John Brown didn’t fight for slaves to be free then the Civil War might not have even happened.
ReplyDeleteHayley S. Period 10/11 A
After reading chapter 10 of War, Terrible War, By Joy Hakim, and watching the video, John Brown's Raid in American Memory, I feel that John Brown was neither a madman or a martyr. I believe that his heart was in the right place with trying to help free slaves. According to War, Terrible War, Brown “befriended fugitive slaves and helped to fund anti slavery pamphlets” . Although I also believe that what he did was wrong and did in fact deserve to die. He and his 21 followers marched to Harper's Ferry and took over an arsenal that held many weapons. He was determined to help free the slaves. On the other hand, while he was at the arsenal, a train passed and Brown shot and killed a free black man.
ReplyDeleteCorinne D. Period 10/11 A
Whether or not John Brown was a hero is a controversial topic. John Brown was a violent abolitionist that planned an uprising to free slaves. John Brown believed that he was a great man, but for many reason some think that brown was a villain. I believe that Brown had great potential to be an American hero, however, he took the wrong steps to do this. If John Brown wanted to make a statement, he didn’t have to brutally murder five pro-slavery men. According to the video “John Brown's Raid in American Memory”, not only did he kill these men, but he took their lives in a gruesome, bloodthirsty way, with an axe at hand. This was uncalled for. Someone who wanted to free the imprisoned, should not banish the free from life. This is not the right message to send. Being feared would only draw negative attention to him. Secondly, Brown was bumptious. American heroes should set an example for their fellow human by doing for others and not themselves. Brown, however, requested Lincoln’s sword, that used to be owned by George Washington. He wanted this because he felt that he was fighting for America’s freedom as Washington did. This was a mistake. Being humble is key in heroism, besides, while he was requesting praise, his plan had not yet succeeded. In fact, his plan was a recipe for disaster. According to History of US, John Brown wanted the African Americans in his uprising to come and get weapons from him, but he never told them to do so. John Brown was neither organized, or planned enough to be a hero. How could a hero have a successful uprising if you do not tell your group when and how to rebel. Finally, John Brown did not publicize enough the good in what he was doing. His last, dying words were dark and gruesome, and they did not leave the world with hope or inspiration to end slavery. He said “The crimes of this guilty land will never be purged away, but with blood.” These words sound targeted to look at ourselves horribly and to start a bloody war. If this is not what he wanted to stand for, why did he use these as his last words? John Brown was nearly as heroic as Lincoln himself, but because of the horrible faults in his plan, he lost the title of “the man who ended slavery” to Lincoln. John Brown may not be a hero, but this doesn’t make him a villain. John Brown was just a man with too many holes in his plan.
ReplyDelete-Megan F 10/11B
After seeing the two sources, the video, "John Brown's Raid In American Memory", and chapter 10 of "War Terrible War", I think that John Brown is a mad man. I have many reasons to support this, and one is because of his brutal and bloody actions. Also, the quote Abraham Lincoln said, which I agree with, is, "Old John Brown has been executed for treason against a state. We cannot object, even though he agreed with us thinking slavery was wrong. That can not excuse violence, bloodshed, and treason." This means, even though he was fighting for what we were fighting for, what he did was unacceptable. He even brutally killed people since he heard they were for slavery. He shouldn't have done all that, and this is why I think he's a mad man.
ReplyDelete-Devon O 10/11B
I believe that John Brown was a martyr. I believe this is true because, according to the article, “The Impending Crisis,” and the video “John Brown’s Raid in American Memory,” all in all, the man died for his cause. He was an anti-slavery activist. Before he died though, he befriended fugitive slaves, and helped fund anti-slavery pamphlets published by some rogue slaves. The pamphlets helped the slaves that wanted to run away get to safe houses, and to the underground railroad. This was very important to help them run away, and only shows his dedication to helping free slaves. He also used his own money to arm rebellious slaves to help them run away. He was the person that really sparked the Civil War. This was because of his daring actions, that ended up leading to his demise. The northers were very upset, about Virginia's decision to hang Brown. While the southerners were quite pleased with that decision, seeing as he wanted to free the slaves. In the article, “The Impending Crisis” it has a quote from Brown himself, “ If it is deemed necessary that I should forfeit my life for the furtherance of the ends of justice and mingle my blood with the bloods of millions in this slave country whose rights are disregarded by wicked, cruel, and unjust enactments, I say let it be done.” He said this at his trial, he said his only goal was to liberate slaves, not to commit violence. He did, and said, all of these things because he wanted to end slavery, and was willing to die for his cause, otherwise, he wouldn't have given a penny, to a cause that he knew could end his life, so yes, I believe that John Brown was a martyr.
ReplyDelete~Olivia Tona
Period 10-11 B-Day
After reading chapter 10 and watching the video on John Brown I believe that he was a Martyr. John Brown fought for the right thing but in the wrong way. " I ... am now quite certain that the crimes of this land will never be purged away but with blood" John Brown was stating that this country will never be able to free slaves without a war. John Brown was correct but he didn't want any wars so he believed that if he attempted to do it himself I would make things better, so he wanted to launch a massive slave insurrection to free slaves. This action John Brown did caused him to be hung. Being hung means that you had to do something bad to be sentenced to death, for people they consider him as a madman for this but in general he wasn't. John Brown was just simply trying to complete one thing to free “property” (slaves). To add to his actions he helped pay for antislavery. So in the end I do believe that John Brown was a Martyr.
ReplyDelete-Ashley Gebhardt
10/11 B
After reading Chapter 10 from "War, Terrible War" by Joy Hakim and the article, and watching the video, I believe John Brown was a madman. In Chapter 10, it states," " He used violence to try and free the slaves, and I think he would have had a better chance being peaceful. In the article, it states, " At 8 o'clock Sunday evening, October 16, John Brown led a raiding party of approximately 21 men towards Harpers Ferry, where they captured the lone watchman and cut the town's telegraph lines." I do not see how Brown thought that capturing an arsenal for the first stop was a good idea because it's an arsenal and you would think that an arsenal would be the hardest because of all the security, yes, there was only one guard, but there will still be a lot of protection. Lastly, the video talked about what some people said and Abraham Lincoln said "John Brown's effort was peculiar. An enthusiast broods over the oppression of a people till he fancies himself commissioned by Heaven to liberate them. He ventures the attempt, which ends in little else than his own execution." This shows that what he did got him killed and he might not have been killed if he did not try to start a war. He could have gotten slaves freed without violence and a war. I think he could have prevented being killed if he were more peaceful.
ReplyDelete~Maggie Evans
Pd. 10-11A
I believe that John Brown was a madman. Why?, because he was trying to help the slaves but he went way too far with his claim. Many people died because of all of the commotion he caused. Also I think Brown was a madman because when he and his 21 men were just walking around they brutally killed 5 innocent men just because they owned slaves and because they weren't against slavery they were for it. I do believe he should have died because he was causing so much commotion throughout the country and killing and injuring many people. but on the other hand he did put the idea of slavery being bad into some peoples heads and that started to change slavery and eventually it did.
ReplyDelete~Izzy Lopez
~Period 10-11 B day
After gathering information about John Brown, I have come to the conclusion that he was a madman. I believe this because his actions were barbaric. He "brutally murdered" 5 men, planned a guerrilla war, had slaves kill their masters with stolen guns, and demanded that General Washington's sword was given to him because he felt that he deserved it (War, Terrible War by Joy Hakim). These examples prove that he was irrational. He could have nonviolently protested slavery, but he decided to take lives, and in the end, even his own.
ReplyDelete-Dani V.
Period 3/4A