Revolutionary Concept
Choose one revolutionary concept to examine (see list of suggested topics below). Where did this idea originate, and how was it manifest (if at all) in the American and French Revolutions? Answer this question with analysis of primary sources related to the American and French Revolutions and relevant sources from the Enlightenment and English Constitutionalism. The essay should be 500-750 words. Incomplete list of revolutionary concepts: -The social contract (government is formed by individuals to protect fundamental rights) -Freedom of conscience and expression -Popular sovereignty (the “people” rather than ruler possesses ultimate governing power) -Meritocracy (status and power based on ability rather than blood or lineage) //////////////////////////// Letter grades will be assigned as follows: A : Essay is well written and well organized with only minor spelling and grammar errors. It demonstrates a strong command of the relevant course material, responds directly to the prompt, has a clear and compelling thesis, solid evidence in the form of well-chosen and appropriately cited quotations and specific references to the requested source(s), robust analysis, logical reasoning, and meets the target length. B : Essay demonstrates a solid command of the relevant course material and responds to the prompt yet has at least one significant flaw in the quality of writing, organization, historical accuracy, logical reasoning, use of evidence, citations, or length. C : Essay engages the course material yet falls short of responding to the prompt in a satisfactory way–for example, it might summarize the content of the primary source(s) and/or textbook without providing much analysis or original argument. It may have numerous major flaws while still demonstrating a minimal grasp of the relevant course material. /////////////////////////// Preferably answer essay prompt on Social Contract or Popular Sovereignty. Not looking for an outstanding essay or perfect. Somewhere around a B. I uploaded a file regarding my professor’s grading policy. Just something that answers the prompt. Will include sources regarding these topics. No need for a works cited no bibliography. Just in text citations. For the citations, I included in each file what the correct citation should be.
