Pennsylvanian Moments
In this great endorsement of Obama, Michael Moore says:
Pennsylvania, the state that gave birth to this great country, has a chance to set things right. It has not had a moment to shine like this since 1787 when our Constitution was written there.
I disagree. I think Pennsylvania has had a couple great moments since the Constitution. The Battle of Gettysburg, for example, was the turning point of the Civil War. And the Dover School Board case, where a solid blow was struck against the anti-American intelligent design movement, was decided in my hometown of Harrisburg.
So securing Obama’s nomination and eventual victory isn’t the only great moment Pennsylvania has had since the Constitution. It’s just the most recent.
I agree. I’m not always a fan of Pennsylvania, especially given some of the intolerance and bigotry I’ve encountered in the Commonwealth, but PA has played a pivotal role more than a few times. I would certainly add PA’s role in the Underground Railroad as important. As was PA’s role as the starting point of the Conestoga wagons heading West, etc.
I think part of the problem is a matter of perception. The things that Pennsylvania have done that have been great for this country were always long term ventures: steel, coal, oil, etc that don’t sound or look flashy but were every bit as important to the establishment and rise of our country as any other State’s contribution.
Take care.