The article discusses the unique situation of Americans living in a conquered territory without established laws, highlighting the differences between the Anglo Saxon race and the original inhabitants. It also praises the generosity of the United States in providing relief to the suffering Irish population, showcasing the success of the government and the prosperity of the country.
The article titled "NEWS," offers a richly layered perspective of American identity.
The Unique Conditions of American Sovereignty in California (1846-1848)
Gvernance during a tumultuous period in U.S. history, likely during the Mexican-American War (1846-1848) and its aftermath. The reflections include themes of territorial conquest, rights of citizens, and the socio-economic conditions of both indigenous peoples and immigrant populations, particularly the Irish.
Initially, the author underscores the precarious position of Americans living in "a conquered Territory," indicating a sense of disenfranchisement and military rule. The phrase, "We are here by the right of the strong arm," evokes the forceful nature of American expansionism and conquest. This can be contextualized within the framework of Manifest Destiny, the 19th-century doctrine that the expansion of the U.S. throughout the American continents was both justified and inevitable.
Moreover, the author reflects on the nature of governance in such uncertain times, stating, "Our election, a few days since, was not the fiat of the people, but the favor of the Governor." This highlights a disconnection between popular sovereignty, as espoused in democratic frameworks, and the realities of governance in newly acquired territories. The emerging governance structures were heavily influenced by military authority and political appointments rather than the democratically elected will of the people, which posed significant challenges to the ideology of American democracy.
The author also contrasts the lifestyles of the indigenous populations with those of Anglo-Saxon settlers, noting that "they were a nation of herdsmen," and thus their social structures were markedly different. This acknowledgment hints at the tensions arising from cultural misunderstandings and differing economic systems. The indigenous people were viewed through a lens of Eurocentrism that judged their ways of life as inferior due to a lack of industrialization and urban development, leading to a one-dimensional view of their existence.
Further, the piece touches on the plight of the Irish, drawing a parallel between their hardships at home and the struggles faced by the native inhabitants of the land they ‘conquered.’ The statement, "Poverty, laziness, disease, are hard things under the sun," paints a poignant picture of the dire circumstances suffered by many and the relevance of economic opportunities in America. The author vividly recounts the generosity of American society in response to the Irish plight, stating, "All eyes were turned upon the United States... Those facts require no comment." This indicates a sense of pride in the moral duty fulfilled by American citizens towards their Irish brethren, which reflects both the interconnectedness of immigrant experiences and the growing sense of American identity as one capable of compassion.
In conclusion, this article serves as a microcosm of the complexities surrounding the notions of territory, rights, and identity in mid-19th century America. It reflects a society grappling with its own values amidst the consequences of expansionism and the incorporation of diverse populations into the national narrative. The historical context of this piece helps illuminate the struggle for rights, the push and pull of cultural assimilation, and the growing pains associated with America’s evolving identity during a period marked by contradictions between idealism and reality.
In the annals of American history, few moments are as culturally and politically complex as the years surrounding California's transition to American sovereignty. The mid-1840s were a tumultuous period, marked by military conquests, national aspirations, and the myriad lives caught in this extraordinary transformation. By exploring an article titled "NEWS" from *The Californian*, a newspaper of that era, we gain insight into a situation rife with contradictions, challenges, and opportunities—one that resonates with the core of the American identity. This exploration is shaped by notions of rights, governance, inclusion, and the clash of cultures.
The article opens with a candid acknowledgment of life in a "conquered Territory," emphasizing the legal and societal ambiguities that characterize such locations. The journalist notes, "As Americans, residing in a conquered Territory, our situation is a peculiar one," illustrating how the people of California grappled with the implications of a transfer of sovereignty born not of self-determination but of military might. The mention of a lack of protective laws for the population—save for "the efficient law of military authority"—captures the precarious existence of those living under military governance, hinting at an arduous struggle for civic rights and societal stability.
This stark reality underscores a distinct tension within the American identity. An ideal rooted in democracy was juxtaposed against an expansionist drive reliant on military force. The situation illustrated the growing pains of a burgeoning nation wrestling with its principles and practices, standing in stark contrast to the lofty ideals enshrined in the Declaration of Independence. Furthermore, the reference to elections heavily influenced by the "favor of the Governor" highlights a significant disconnect between the populace and their governing bodies. In a land ostensibly promised to the people, their voices seemed muted, manipulated by those in power—a theme that resonates powerfully in today's discussions on authority, rights, and public engagement.
As the article delves into the agitation for popular rights within the context of military rule, it exposes the chasm felt by citizens accustomed to the tenets of participatory democracy. The assertion that "this may seem an evil to those [...] made to understand that they were an essential unit in the aggregate of a popular election" poignantly captures the discontent of the populace. Beneath this sentiment lies a frustration with their impotence in shaping their governance under external authority.
The concept of popular rights—so foundational to American democracy—was being rewritten in a context marked by territorial acquisition driven by conflict. This nuanced interpretation speaks to both historical and contemporary struggles, wherein the rights of citizens often clash with external governance. Moreover, the perception that this governance was organic and beneficial serves as a lens through which we can anticipate modern discussions around governance by overarching governmental bodies.
A point of contention emerges between the evaluation of Native practices and the expectations imposed by newly arrived settlers. The article highlights the disconnect between the herdsmen’s methods of subsistence and the capitalist, industrial vision that the newcomers brought to California. The critique of original inhabitants for not “building cities” or utilizing the land according to Euro-American standards starkly contrasts with the settlers' need for "progress" as defined by their civilization and industrial ideals.
This juxtaposition alludes to a broader theme relevant in historical analysis: the notion that progress must align with Euro-American ideals while disregarding the legitimacy of other forms of existence that do not conform to this mold. The remark that "if our cities are hot beds of vice" calls into question the moral judgments that often accompany such narratives. The consequences of invasion—physical and socio-economic—raise critical questions about the sustainability of societies built on imposition rather than inclusion and respect.
As we delve deeper into the sentiments expressed by the land's inhabitants, the article gently critiques the superiority complex often felt by Anglo settlers. The original inhabitants, characterized by their distinct "occupations" and "enjoyments," challenge the simplistic colonial narrative. The author acknowledges: "We forget that they were a nation of herdsmen," presenting a compelling argument in favor of understanding the native relationship with the land as one of symbiosis rather than exploitation.
In this light, the article serves as an early testament to a cultural anthropology that appreciates diverse ways of life. Such insights remain pertinent in contemporary discussions about the rights of indigenous peoples and their relationship to land and resources. They prompt us to reconsider how notions of progress can honor diverse cultural fabrics, rather than homogenizing them under the banner of modernity.
The analogy of a herdsman transforming into a soldier sheds light on the complex nature of conflict and its societal implications. This observation reveals the human conditions intertwined with the rise and fall, loss, and gain. The tranquil existence of the herdsman is contrasted with the struggles faced in urban environments, weighed down by “anarchy and misrule”—a reflection that continues to echo in contemporary urban discussions about crime, poverty, and governance.
By positing that a herdsman may return from conflict "not beggared, or even impoverished," the author touches upon a resilience intertwined with cultural identities and socio-economic capabilities. The varying ways individuals respond to upheaval—whether they emerge unscathed or find themselves facing debilitating violence—invites robust discussions on societal evolution and recovery.
The article's examination of the Irish population provides a poignant example of the enduring human spirit in times of hardship. The line “Poverty, laziness, disease, are hard things under the sun, but it is harder yet when the arm of a nation's strength is paralysed” captures a deep social awareness that resonates with contemporary issues surrounding globalization, migration, and disaster relief.
This contemplation on disaster relief highlights a salient point regarding collective identities—nationality dissolving in the face of shared humanitarian needs. The account of American responses to Irish suffering illustrates an evolving vision of America—one that generously extends aid beyond its borders, fostering a community born from shared purpose and empathy.
As we reflect on the article from *The Californian* titled "NEWS," it becomes evident how the dilemmas and paradoxes of Californian sovereignty echo through time into our present day. Issues surrounding democracy, identity, rights, and human connection transcend individual narratives, shaping an ongoing discourse about belonging, voice, and meaningful participation in governance—a conversation that remains vital as we navigate today's landscape of rights and representation.
Framing the American experience amidst the conquest in California as one of struggle, adaptation, and resilience elucidates the fortitude embedded within the American spirit. This historical reflection provides more than just a glimpse into a formative moment of American identity; it offers lessons in resilience, respect for cultural differences, and the enduring quest for a more inclusive future. The civil rights discourse of today, emerging disparities, and the interconnectedness stemming from immigration and cultural exchange remain pertinent themes, urging us to learn from the past as we consider our actions moving forward.
Through this deeper understanding of a foundational narrative, we position ourselves better to forge a society that honors its past while aspiring for a hopeful and equitable future.
2. **"Ambivalence of Popular Rights"** - This phrase examines the tensions surrounding democracy and rights during periods of military rule. For more information, check out "The Politics of Rights and Popular Sovereignty" from [American Political Science Review](https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/american-political-science-review/article/politics-of-rights-and-popular-sovereignty/DA77E6D6F4343F675A504E2C3382694E).
3. **"Illusion of Unimpeded Progress"** - This phrase addresses the critique of Euro-American notions of progress versus indigenous practices. Explore the implications further in "Manifest Destiny and American Expansionism" from [National Park Service](https://www.nps.gov/articles/manifest-destiny.htm).
4. **"Reflections on Cultural Capacities"** - This phrase critiques the superiority complex of Anglo settlers and highlights their misunderstandings of native practices. For a deeper understanding, see "Indigenous Perspectives on Sustainability" from [The Journal of Sustainability Education](http://www.sustedjournal.org).
5. **"Emotional Depth in Challenging Times"** - This phrase discusses the societal implications of conflict and individual resilience. For a broader context, read "Resilience and Community Recovery" from [American Psychological Association](https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2020/resilience-community-recovery).
6. **"The Social Landscape of the Times"** - This phrase highlights the enduring human spirit amidst hardship, particularly regarding the Irish population. For relevant insights, access "Immigration, Refugees, and the Irish Experience" from [The National Archives](https://www.archives.gov/research/immigration/refugees-irish).
7. **"Concluding Reflections on Californian Sovereignty"** - This phrase speaks to ongoing discussions about democracy, identity, and human connection. Explore contemporary implications in "Democracy and the Politics of Social Justice" from [Stanford Social Innovation Review](https://ssir.org/articles/entry/democracy_and_the_politics_of_social_justice).
**Citation**: The Californian
- NEWS., 1847-09-22
https://cdnc.ucr.edu/ University of California Riverside Digital Newspaper Archive
As Americans, residing in a conquered Territory, our situation is a peculiar one. We are here by the right of the strong arm. We have no law for our protection, but the efficient law of military authority. Our election, a few days since, was not the fiat of the people, but the favor of the Governor. This may seem an evil to those who, occasionally, have been made to understand that they were an essential unit in the aggregate of a popular election. It is a check to those who would declaim loudest about popular rights, or to those who would stoop lowest to bask in the sunshine of popular favor. In the history of our government, we have no precedent of the situation as citizens that we exhibit today. We have been so accustomed, from childhood, to hear of administrations overthrown, abuses corrected, law-makers appointed by the ballot box, that we scarce believe in the virtue of anything else. When California shall become the property of the United States, either by treaty or purchase, then laws like those in some of the Spanish portions of our land, adapted to the wants of a mixed population, will afford protection to us all as citizens of the United States; then all can unite, as a people, and assume their rights. The evils arising from the war and its mismanagement are passing away, and although it is evident from secret correspondence, since published, that our government desired peaceful occupation and concilatory measures, we will not sigh over the evils of the past. The destiny of the country is in our hands. We hear the original owners of the soil often blamed that they did not improve the facilities about them, that they did not build cities, that they saw the waters of the Bay ebb and flow, and rode over the level praries, and never thought of a steam boat or a rail-road. We forget that they were a nation of herdsmen, that their occupations, their enjoyments, are different from ours. If they had none of the advantages, they had none of the evils of a large society. Their virtues and vices were those of individuals, not of masses. It is often said that the country was torn and distracted by revolution. A herdsman easily becomes a soldier, his cattle browse as securely on the hills and, as before, obey the same law of natural increase and he returns from a revolution not more bloody, and less exciting than a political election in N. York or N. Orleans, to find himself not beggared, or even impoverished. They had their amusements, the holy days of the Catholic church, a church equally adopted to the highest or the lowest stages of life, with its mystic symbols for the ignorant, and their spiritual explanation for the wise. We have no right to complain that they dwelt upon the soil after their own fashion; for it was their own land, and from it they lived and enjoyed. If our cities are hot beds of vice, if anarchy and misrule are the fruits of invasion, if the rights of the weak are disregarded by the strong, then will they painfully compare their former state with the present. We of the Anglo Saxon race bring hither a different policy, that policy, which, at home, has made cities arise from the the wilderness, and checkered the country with canals and railroads. In an old country it is often difficult to find employment. Situations even the lowest and most menial, became like wealth and name hereditary, and "my lord's" game keeper becomes the son's game keeper, as surely as the son becomes "my lord." Look at Ireland; as contrasted with the United States, and ask yourself the cause of all the suffering there—A crop has failed, one single crop, and the whole population starve. The Irish are not a lazy people. They are the bone and sinew of every work in the United States. In their own land, with haggard faces, they beg, not for bread, but for work. How sensibly Sidney Smith writes. ''What is the object of all government? The object of all government is roast mutton, potatoes, a stout constable, an honest justice, a clear highway, a free school. What trash to be brawling in the streets about the Green Isle, the Isle of the Ocean! the best anthem of Erin go Bragh. A better anthem would be Erin go bread and, cheese, Erin go cabins that keep out the rain, Erin go pantaloons without holes in them." Poverty, laziness, disease, are hard things under the sun, but it is harder yet when the arm of a nations strength is paralized, and her people beg for work—We know of no nation who would submit to this with better grace than the brave and generous Irish. When the call for relief came, all Europe shrunk back aghast. They could not relieve their suffering. Their means were inadequate. All eyes were turned upon the United States. That country, which has given sucor to so many emigrants, will not fail their bretheren at home, in the hour of need, nor did they. Nationality is forgotten. Meetings were called of members of Congress, members of Legislature, of all classes, who with a common feeling, contributed to the relief of the poor Irish. Those facts require no comment. We wish no surer evidence of the prosperity of our country and the success of our government than this.
Initially, the author underscores the precarious position of Americans living in "a conquered Territory," indicating a sense of disenfranchisement and military rule. The phrase, "We are here by the right of the strong arm," evokes the forceful nature of American expansionism and conquest. This can be contextualized within the framework of Manifest Destiny, the 19th-century doctrine that the expansion of the U.S. throughout the American continents was both justified and inevitable.
Moreover, the author reflects on the nature of governance in such uncertain times, stating, "Our election, a few days since, was not the fiat of the people, but the favor of the Governor." This highlights a disconnection between popular sovereignty, as espoused in democratic frameworks, and the realities of governance in newly acquired territories. The emerging governance structures were heavily influenced by military authority and political appointments rather than the democratically elected will of the people, which posed significant challenges to the ideology of American democracy.
The author also contrasts the lifestyles of the indigenous populations with those of Anglo-Saxon settlers, noting that "they were a nation of herdsmen," and thus their social structures were markedly different. This acknowledgment hints at the tensions arising from cultural misunderstandings and differing economic systems. The indigenous people were viewed through a lens of Eurocentrism that judged their ways of life as inferior due to a lack of industrialization and urban development, leading to a one-dimensional view of their existence.
Further, the piece touches on the plight of the Irish, drawing a parallel between their hardships at home and the struggles faced by the native inhabitants of the land they ‘conquered.’ The statement, "Poverty, laziness, disease, are hard things under the sun," paints a poignant picture of the dire circumstances suffered by many and the relevance of economic opportunities in America. The author vividly recounts the generosity of American society in response to the Irish plight, stating, "All eyes were turned upon the United States... Those facts require no comment." This indicates a sense of pride in the moral duty fulfilled by American citizens towards their Irish brethren, which reflects both the interconnectedness of immigrant experiences and the growing sense of American identity as one capable of compassion.
In conclusion, this article serves as a microcosm of the complexities surrounding the notions of territory, rights, and identity in mid-19th century America. It reflects a society grappling with its own values amidst the consequences of expansionism and the incorporation of diverse populations into the national narrative. The historical context of this piece helps illuminate the struggle for rights, the push and pull of cultural assimilation, and the growing pains associated with America’s evolving identity during a period marked by contradictions between idealism and reality.
Title: Echoes of History: The Unique Conditions of American Sovereignty in California (1846-1848)
In the annals of American history, few moments are as culturally and politically complex as the years surrounding California's transition to American sovereignty. The mid-1840s were a tumultuous period, marked by military conquests, national aspirations, and the myriad lives caught in this extraordinary transformation. By exploring an article titled "NEWS" from *The Californian*, a newspaper of that era, we gain insight into a situation rife with contradictions, challenges, and opportunities—one that resonates with the core of the American identity. This exploration is shaped by notions of rights, governance, inclusion, and the clash of cultures.
1. The Peculiar Condition of Conquered Territory
The article opens with a candid acknowledgment of life in a "conquered Territory," emphasizing the legal and societal ambiguities that characterize such locations. The journalist notes, "As Americans, residing in a conquered Territory, our situation is a peculiar one," illustrating how the people of California grappled with the implications of a transfer of sovereignty born not of self-determination but of military might. The mention of a lack of protective laws for the population—save for "the efficient law of military authority"—captures the precarious existence of those living under military governance, hinting at an arduous struggle for civic rights and societal stability.
This stark reality underscores a distinct tension within the American identity. An ideal rooted in democracy was juxtaposed against an expansionist drive reliant on military force. The situation illustrated the growing pains of a burgeoning nation wrestling with its principles and practices, standing in stark contrast to the lofty ideals enshrined in the Declaration of Independence. Furthermore, the reference to elections heavily influenced by the "favor of the Governor" highlights a significant disconnect between the populace and their governing bodies. In a land ostensibly promised to the people, their voices seemed muted, manipulated by those in power—a theme that resonates powerfully in today's discussions on authority, rights, and public engagement.
2. The Ambivalence of Popular Rights
As the article delves into the agitation for popular rights within the context of military rule, it exposes the chasm felt by citizens accustomed to the tenets of participatory democracy. The assertion that "this may seem an evil to those [...] made to understand that they were an essential unit in the aggregate of a popular election" poignantly captures the discontent of the populace. Beneath this sentiment lies a frustration with their impotence in shaping their governance under external authority.
The concept of popular rights—so foundational to American democracy—was being rewritten in a context marked by territorial acquisition driven by conflict. This nuanced interpretation speaks to both historical and contemporary struggles, wherein the rights of citizens often clash with external governance. Moreover, the perception that this governance was organic and beneficial serves as a lens through which we can anticipate modern discussions around governance by overarching governmental bodies.
3. The Illusion of Unimpeded Progress
A point of contention emerges between the evaluation of Native practices and the expectations imposed by newly arrived settlers. The article highlights the disconnect between the herdsmen’s methods of subsistence and the capitalist, industrial vision that the newcomers brought to California. The critique of original inhabitants for not “building cities” or utilizing the land according to Euro-American standards starkly contrasts with the settlers' need for "progress" as defined by their civilization and industrial ideals.
This juxtaposition alludes to a broader theme relevant in historical analysis: the notion that progress must align with Euro-American ideals while disregarding the legitimacy of other forms of existence that do not conform to this mold. The remark that "if our cities are hot beds of vice" calls into question the moral judgments that often accompany such narratives. The consequences of invasion—physical and socio-economic—raise critical questions about the sustainability of societies built on imposition rather than inclusion and respect.
4. Reflections on Cultural Capacities
As we delve deeper into the sentiments expressed by the land's inhabitants, the article gently critiques the superiority complex often felt by Anglo settlers. The original inhabitants, characterized by their distinct "occupations" and "enjoyments," challenge the simplistic colonial narrative. The author acknowledges: "We forget that they were a nation of herdsmen," presenting a compelling argument in favor of understanding the native relationship with the land as one of symbiosis rather than exploitation.
In this light, the article serves as an early testament to a cultural anthropology that appreciates diverse ways of life. Such insights remain pertinent in contemporary discussions about the rights of indigenous peoples and their relationship to land and resources. They prompt us to reconsider how notions of progress can honor diverse cultural fabrics, rather than homogenizing them under the banner of modernity.
5. Emotional Depth in Challenging Times
The analogy of a herdsman transforming into a soldier sheds light on the complex nature of conflict and its societal implications. This observation reveals the human conditions intertwined with the rise and fall, loss, and gain. The tranquil existence of the herdsman is contrasted with the struggles faced in urban environments, weighed down by “anarchy and misrule”—a reflection that continues to echo in contemporary urban discussions about crime, poverty, and governance.
By positing that a herdsman may return from conflict "not beggared, or even impoverished," the author touches upon a resilience intertwined with cultural identities and socio-economic capabilities. The varying ways individuals respond to upheaval—whether they emerge unscathed or find themselves facing debilitating violence—invites robust discussions on societal evolution and recovery.
6. The Social Landscape of the Times
The article's examination of the Irish population provides a poignant example of the enduring human spirit in times of hardship. The line “Poverty, laziness, disease, are hard things under the sun, but it is harder yet when the arm of a nation's strength is paralysed” captures a deep social awareness that resonates with contemporary issues surrounding globalization, migration, and disaster relief.
This contemplation on disaster relief highlights a salient point regarding collective identities—nationality dissolving in the face of shared humanitarian needs. The account of American responses to Irish suffering illustrates an evolving vision of America—one that generously extends aid beyond its borders, fostering a community born from shared purpose and empathy.
7. Concluding Reflections
As we reflect on the article from *The Californian* titled "NEWS," it becomes evident how the dilemmas and paradoxes of Californian sovereignty echo through time into our present day. Issues surrounding democracy, identity, rights, and human connection transcend individual narratives, shaping an ongoing discourse about belonging, voice, and meaningful participation in governance—a conversation that remains vital as we navigate today's landscape of rights and representation.
Framing the American experience amidst the conquest in California as one of struggle, adaptation, and resilience elucidates the fortitude embedded within the American spirit. This historical reflection provides more than just a glimpse into a formative moment of American identity; it offers lessons in resilience, respect for cultural differences, and the enduring quest for a more inclusive future. The civil rights discourse of today, emerging disparities, and the interconnectedness stemming from immigration and cultural exchange remain pertinent themes, urging us to learn from the past as we consider our actions moving forward.
Through this deeper understanding of a foundational narrative, we position ourselves better to forge a society that honors its past while aspiring for a hopeful and equitable future.
Key Phrases:
1. **"Peculiar Condition of Conquered Territory"** - This phrase highlights the complexities of governance under military authority after territorial acquisition. For further exploration, see "Occupation and Sovereignty" from [Harvard Law Review](https://harvardlawreview.org/2019/03/occupation-of-territory-legal-concerns-and-practices/).2. **"Ambivalence of Popular Rights"** - This phrase examines the tensions surrounding democracy and rights during periods of military rule. For more information, check out "The Politics of Rights and Popular Sovereignty" from [American Political Science Review](https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/american-political-science-review/article/politics-of-rights-and-popular-sovereignty/DA77E6D6F4343F675A504E2C3382694E).
3. **"Illusion of Unimpeded Progress"** - This phrase addresses the critique of Euro-American notions of progress versus indigenous practices. Explore the implications further in "Manifest Destiny and American Expansionism" from [National Park Service](https://www.nps.gov/articles/manifest-destiny.htm).
4. **"Reflections on Cultural Capacities"** - This phrase critiques the superiority complex of Anglo settlers and highlights their misunderstandings of native practices. For a deeper understanding, see "Indigenous Perspectives on Sustainability" from [The Journal of Sustainability Education](http://www.sustedjournal.org).
5. **"Emotional Depth in Challenging Times"** - This phrase discusses the societal implications of conflict and individual resilience. For a broader context, read "Resilience and Community Recovery" from [American Psychological Association](https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2020/resilience-community-recovery).
6. **"The Social Landscape of the Times"** - This phrase highlights the enduring human spirit amidst hardship, particularly regarding the Irish population. For relevant insights, access "Immigration, Refugees, and the Irish Experience" from [The National Archives](https://www.archives.gov/research/immigration/refugees-irish).
7. **"Concluding Reflections on Californian Sovereignty"** - This phrase speaks to ongoing discussions about democracy, identity, and human connection. Explore contemporary implications in "Democracy and the Politics of Social Justice" from [Stanford Social Innovation Review](https://ssir.org/articles/entry/democracy_and_the_politics_of_social_justice).
**Citation**: The Californian
- NEWS., 1847-09-22
https://cdnc.ucr.edu/ University of California Riverside Digital Newspaper Archive
Original Article:
As Americans, residing in a conquered Territory, our situation is a peculiar one. We are here by the right of the strong arm. We have no law for our protection, but the efficient law of military authority. Our election, a few days since, was not the fiat of the people, but the favor of the Governor. This may seem an evil to those who, occasionally, have been made to understand that they were an essential unit in the aggregate of a popular election. It is a check to those who would declaim loudest about popular rights, or to those who would stoop lowest to bask in the sunshine of popular favor. In the history of our government, we have no precedent of the situation as citizens that we exhibit today. We have been so accustomed, from childhood, to hear of administrations overthrown, abuses corrected, law-makers appointed by the ballot box, that we scarce believe in the virtue of anything else. When California shall become the property of the United States, either by treaty or purchase, then laws like those in some of the Spanish portions of our land, adapted to the wants of a mixed population, will afford protection to us all as citizens of the United States; then all can unite, as a people, and assume their rights. The evils arising from the war and its mismanagement are passing away, and although it is evident from secret correspondence, since published, that our government desired peaceful occupation and concilatory measures, we will not sigh over the evils of the past. The destiny of the country is in our hands. We hear the original owners of the soil often blamed that they did not improve the facilities about them, that they did not build cities, that they saw the waters of the Bay ebb and flow, and rode over the level praries, and never thought of a steam boat or a rail-road. We forget that they were a nation of herdsmen, that their occupations, their enjoyments, are different from ours. If they had none of the advantages, they had none of the evils of a large society. Their virtues and vices were those of individuals, not of masses. It is often said that the country was torn and distracted by revolution. A herdsman easily becomes a soldier, his cattle browse as securely on the hills and, as before, obey the same law of natural increase and he returns from a revolution not more bloody, and less exciting than a political election in N. York or N. Orleans, to find himself not beggared, or even impoverished. They had their amusements, the holy days of the Catholic church, a church equally adopted to the highest or the lowest stages of life, with its mystic symbols for the ignorant, and their spiritual explanation for the wise. We have no right to complain that they dwelt upon the soil after their own fashion; for it was their own land, and from it they lived and enjoyed. If our cities are hot beds of vice, if anarchy and misrule are the fruits of invasion, if the rights of the weak are disregarded by the strong, then will they painfully compare their former state with the present. We of the Anglo Saxon race bring hither a different policy, that policy, which, at home, has made cities arise from the the wilderness, and checkered the country with canals and railroads. In an old country it is often difficult to find employment. Situations even the lowest and most menial, became like wealth and name hereditary, and "my lord's" game keeper becomes the son's game keeper, as surely as the son becomes "my lord." Look at Ireland; as contrasted with the United States, and ask yourself the cause of all the suffering there—A crop has failed, one single crop, and the whole population starve. The Irish are not a lazy people. They are the bone and sinew of every work in the United States. In their own land, with haggard faces, they beg, not for bread, but for work. How sensibly Sidney Smith writes. ''What is the object of all government? The object of all government is roast mutton, potatoes, a stout constable, an honest justice, a clear highway, a free school. What trash to be brawling in the streets about the Green Isle, the Isle of the Ocean! the best anthem of Erin go Bragh. A better anthem would be Erin go bread and, cheese, Erin go cabins that keep out the rain, Erin go pantaloons without holes in them." Poverty, laziness, disease, are hard things under the sun, but it is harder yet when the arm of a nations strength is paralized, and her people beg for work—We know of no nation who would submit to this with better grace than the brave and generous Irish. When the call for relief came, all Europe shrunk back aghast. They could not relieve their suffering. Their means were inadequate. All eyes were turned upon the United States. That country, which has given sucor to so many emigrants, will not fail their bretheren at home, in the hour of need, nor did they. Nationality is forgotten. Meetings were called of members of Congress, members of Legislature, of all classes, who with a common feeling, contributed to the relief of the poor Irish. Those facts require no comment. We wish no surer evidence of the prosperity of our country and the success of our government than this.
