Brazilians free essay sample

Overview of Indians, social cultural conditions, assimilation, regionalism, population, economics. The Indian peoples of Brazil have seen their tribal way of life disappearing in the face of forces from the rest of Brazil, much as indigenous peoples everywhere have seen an erosion of their way of life: What has amounted to a genocidal process of attrition dates back to the arrival of the first white men, and the abuse and killing of native Brazilians has gained fresh impetus in recent decades as Brazil has opened up its frontiers in an effort to tap the vast resources of the Amazon basin (Page 85). The elite of Brazil et the priorities for the nation, and they have always put their own comfort and enrichment ahead of that of the native Brazilian. The Indians have had to yield in every confrontation with the forces of progress, and the exploitation

All Quit on the Western Front essays

All Quit on the Western Front essays All Quit on the Western, by Erich Maria Remarque, is a book that explores the true horrors of World War I thought the eyes of a German solider. This story is shows how World War I was not the glorifying war that some people envision it to be. The author uses the character of Paul to tell a realistic story of what the average WWI solider had to endure. This book raises the issue of how destructive war can be not only to a country, but also to a generation of a nation. One of the major themes in the story is that of the lost generation. What Remarque was trying to show, is that an entire generation was lost because of the war. Not only were millions of people killed in the fighting but also many of them were distorted mentally because of the horrible experiences that many of then had to endure. Paul talks about the faceless enemy and how the fight was not with anyone he hated. Paul was affected the greatest when he had to kill the French soldier in the ditch and hear him die a slow painful death. This one experience, of not only killing a man but also to do it close enough that he could put a face with his enemy, haunted Pauls mind. This was most likely a shared feeling with the soldiers at this time. They had to live though watching their countrymen die by being shot or blown up and continue fighting as if nothing should affect them. To deal with death is hard enough without having it shoved in your face. The fact of the matter is that an entire nation suffers when fighting a war. The county is physically destroyed and needs to be rebuilt. This requires money that has already been spent in a war effort. The major lost is that one generation of young adults that were forced to fight a war that they didnt understand. They were almost wiped out and those that did survive must live with the atrocities that they have seen. This is one of the main points illustrated by Remarque though the s ...

Module 3 Case Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Module 3 Case - Assignment Example al Production Cost 3,100,000 Total Production Units 50,000 Production Cost Per Unit 62 Performance for the 2nd Quarter As far as the improvements are considered for the 2nd quarter, the assessment for Mr. Rosen is not under right direction. The information that they had provided, gives the same amount of net income under both approaches. Sales are same for both these approaches. However, the costing side is affected by these two approaches such that the costs are broken up on different methods under the two approaches. For instance, under absorption costing, costs are divided into two main categories which are 1) costs directly attributable to units sold, and 2) costs which are not directly related to the manufacturing process (Jordan and Harris, 2008). Conversely, if contribution margin costing approach is taken into consideration, the overall costs of the company are divided into 1) variable cost, and 2) fixed cost. Variable costs are the ones which increases of decreases with the number of units sold but remain constant on per unit basis. However, fixed costs are the ones that remain same regardless of the number of units sold, but for a certain capacity (Kinney and Raiborn, 2009). Cumulatively, the net effect of these two approaches has found to be the same under the given information. However, the breakup of the costs under both approaches can be observed in a distinct manner. The second quarter performance for the division is same because number of units sold is same as the last year. Although, the overall production cost has been increased because of increasing the number of units, but since the sales units are the same, therefore production cost pertaining to units that are actually sold, has been taken into account which has caused the same result for both approaches under both quarters. Suggestion on Appropriate Reporting System From the given information, there are few suggestions to be made. The clear difference between absorption and marginal costi ng approach can only be observed clearly if there is comprehensive information provided especially regarding the level of inventory. In that case, it would be a rather better approach to make a clear point regarding which costing approach provides the better results. For better results, Mr. Roses is advised to not only increase the production units but also increase the sales volume as well. This will substantiate better performance rather than focusing on the reporting approach to demonstrate better results which is not more than a complacent view. Shortcomings of Absorption Costing Approach There are various shortcomings of absorption costing as a method of internal

Mathematics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Mathematics - Essay Example (c) Let us take values u1 = 1 u2 = 2 u3 = 3 u4 = 4 p = q = 1 Putting these values in the MS Office Excel gives the following output. Input Parameters u1 = 1 u2 = 2 u3 = 3 u4 = 4 p = 1 q = 1 Output Values a = 1 b = 1 c = 2 d = 0 The excel file is also attached an if the input values for u1, u2, u3, u4, p and q are changed the solution values a, b, c an d will also get suitably changed. Q1. (d) A set of ‘m’ linear equations in ‘n’ variables is expressed by the following equation in terms of matrix notation: Ax = b Where A is ‘mxn’ matrix of the coefficients of the system x is ‘nx1’ column vector and b is ‘mx1’ column vector If the ‘b’ vector is a zero vector i.e. all the elements of this vector are zero, then the system of equations is called a ‘Homogeneous System’ If the ‘b’ vector is non-zero vector i.e. if even one of the elements is non-zero then the system of equations is termed as ‘Nonhomogenous System’. Q1. (e) A homogeneous system always has a trivial solution i.e. a solution vector with all the elements being zero. However, for a homogeneous system to have a non-trivial solution the Determinant of Matrix A must be equal to zero. i.e. for non – trivial solution of Ax = b (b = 0) Determinant A = 0 Q2. (a) The profile of the boiler shell is made by revolution of a parabola. Let us assume that equation of the parabola is y = a + bx2 Let us place centre of the co-ordinate system at the middle of the shell. Then, at x = 0 y = 2 i.e. 2 = a + b*02; or, a = 2 And at x = 4 y = 1.5 i.e. 1.5 = 2 + b*(42) or, b = - (1/32) Hence equation of the parabola is Y = 2 – (1/32)x2 where, -4 < x < 4 Plot of the parabola is shown below. If this parabolic profile is rotated about x-axis, it will produce the shell of the boiler and that will enclose a volume, which will be the volume of water that can be contained and hence boiled in this boiler. Esse ntially, what is required is to calculate the volume enclosed by this rotation. The volume of such a boiler will be Therefore, V = 85 m3 Hence, 85 m3 water can be boiled in the boiler. Q2. (b) Integration is essentially summation and therefore, it is important to realize as what is it that is integrated or summed up. It is essentially the product of the dependent variable (y) and infinitesimally small increment in the independent variable or ?x which is continuously summed up. If we know from which point to which point this summation is to be done, then we get a definite answer and this integral is known as definite integral. Mathematically it is expressed by indicating the limits or boundaries of integration as shown below. This is a definite integral with integration being carried out between ‘a’ and ‘b’ (a < b) for y, which is a function of x. This definite integral gives many useful parameters like area under curve, area of a curved surface, volume of a container etc. as shown in Q2. (a), where volume of the boiler was calculated using a definite integral. However, many times we many not know the limits of integration, this is where we are not solving any particular physical or engineering problem but just interested in

Knowledge Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 3

Knowledge Management - Essay Example The information or knowledge can be derived from two major sources: the individuals or employees and the information or data found in the approaches or procedures of the organization. â€Å"Knowledge management is the formulation of and access to experience, knowledge, and expertise that create new capabilities, enable superior performance, encourage innovation, and enhance customer value†(Gloet, 2006). Furthermore, â€Å" KM is a strategy that turns an organizations intellectual assets-both recorded information and the talents of its members into greater productivity, new value and increased competitiveness, it teaches cooperation from managers to employees, how to produce and optimize skills as a collective entity† (Gloet, 2006). The primary motive of knowledge management is to ensure that the aims and goals of the organization. The objectives of the organization revolve around the enhancement of performance, increasing organizational efficiency, innovation, learning and development and constant development of the organization (Addicott, McGivern and Ewan, 2006). Research suggests that KM concentrates on the integration of organizational learning and development in order to distribute knowledge and information. Furthermore, it allows individual employees and groups to work collaboratively in order to share organizational insights in order to improve organizational productivity and efficiency. It also concentrates on enhancing the overall organizational structure, increasing profitability and to change in accordance to the conditions of the market. Literature suggests that KM is an essential and integral part of business organizations and it concentrates on delivering and sharing of relevant knowledge to the appropriate individual at the right time. For this purpose, it is essential that the knowledge management systems are developed in accordance to the needs

Analysis of Home Based Aquaponics System

Analysis of Home Based Aquaponics System RESEARCH METHODOLOGY This chapter outlines the rationale for the research approach adopted and how the detailed analysis of a specific home based aquaponics system is undertaken. The methods for data collection and analysis that is used is as well described. The overall design and structure of the study was driven by the need to fill the gap that exist in the study on home based aquaponics systems in Mauritius. Also, the only home based aquaponic practitioner’s system identifed was closely studied, so as to allow for solid findings and a well-grounded analysis. However, it reflects as well on the limitations of the research methods and how these might affect the findings and conclusions. In this study, the qualitative research using case study analysis is chosen as the appropriate method as it enables to answer the research questions. The qualitative method helps in preparing a careful planning of a research design that encompasses all aspects of the study, from research questions to data collection and analysis. To this effect, qualitative research is chosen using the case study method in order to collect rich, descriptive data on aquaponics. Nevertheless, studies on aquaponics have found that qualitative research results can differ from quantitative results, highlighting the importance of exploratory qualitative data collection for a holistic understanding (Conroy, 1999; Conroy Walker, 2000). Following thorough research on internet and with government authorities and other institutions having insights of the field of aquaponics, only one home based aquaponic practitioner has been identified. He was contacted through Facebook social networking and some informal interviews were undertaken through online communications, following which a formal meeting was scheduled at his premise in order to study his backyard aquaponics system. Indeed, from the close analysis and structured interview undertaken with the aquaponic practitioner, valuable information is gathered regarding his aquaponics system, complete designs, scale, production rates, management practices and water testing parameters and results. His approval was required for consequent visits to closely study his aquaponics system, assist him in effecting the water testings and to carry out additional interviews accordingly, as the dissertation progresses, to gather information as needed. All information is documented to b e used for analysis. The consent of the interviewers has been asked and an explanation of the study has been provided in order to begin any interview for the purpose of this study. Indeed, the aquaponic practitioner gave his consent for his name and pictures of his aquaponics system to be acknowledged and presented in this work. Further, since there is no comprehensive list of aquaponics practitioners in Mauritius, informal interviews were carried out with some organisations having insights of aquaponics system. Furthermore, I assisted the aquaponic practitioner in carrying out water testings in line with some specific parameters, being given that water testing in line with such parameters (PH,Temperature,Nitrate and Ammonia) are vital for the proper sustainability, monitoring and flow of the aquaponics system. Indeed, assisting in the water testing exercise with the aquaponic practitioner helped me better involve in the study as well as understand and analyse the system which helped me consolidate my findings. Moreover, in line with the research objectives in view to gain a better understanding of home based aquaponics system, questions are explicitly framed to highlight the elements of a home scale aquaponics technology. In view to analyse and truly understand a home based aquaponics system, the only genuine home based aquaponics system identified was closely analysed in helping to develop a more grounded insights on more favourable or unfavourable combinations of factors that could be used to increase the awareness, implementation, effectiveness and sustainability of home based aquaponics projects in the future. Furthermore, Maxwell (2005) and Yin (2009) argue that qualitative research needs a clearer pre-structuring. Despite this, I was realistically flexible about the necessary timing of my research activities in view to accommodate for the inevitable challenges that arose from trying to schedule meeting with the busy aquaponic practitioner. To ensure this need for flexibility, a plan was written up to guide the research. However, the data collection process was greatly facilitated by being able to visit the aquaponic practitioner and be on the site of his aquaponics system. Data Collection Methods When conducting a study, it is recommended to use various sources in order to grasp understanding of the context and a more solid foundation which helps in making the accurate choices. Also, the use of multiple sources enhances the reliability and validity of evidence as well as strengthens the author’s arguments (Yin, 2003). Therefore, both primary and secondary sources are needed for data collection. The primary source in this study is gathered through observations, analysis and interviews. The secondary sources include journals, articles, technical reports, policies and some previous studies which are used mainly in theoretical part. My data collection methods included formal observation, site visits, analysis and review. I also conducted structured interviews with the aquaponic practitioner. To comprehend the aquaponics system of the home based aquaponic practitioner that I had chosen to examine, I conducted a comprehensive analysis of the press articles online and by other academic and media sources in relation to home scale aquaponics. I reviewed local government websites and policy documents and did research on internet search engines in relation to home based/backyard aquaponics. I also spoke informally with the chosen aquaponic practioner to gain a sense of direction and understanding to better prepare my research work and formal interview. From his responses and my research work, I drafted my interview questions to gain diverse perspective in analysing the home based aquaponics system. My main data was sourced from a combination formal and informal interviews. Formal interviews were carried out with some stakeholders having insights of aquaponics and both formal and informal interviews were undertaken with the identified aquaponic practitioner. The structured interview questions were designed following formal interviews and in line with literature review. The data generated from the interviews allowed me to confirm the themes by which the data was eventually analysed; it also helped me to refine a line of inquiry for subsequent informal interviews. The fact that informal interviews were conducted with some stakeholders other than the aquaponic practitioner, means that I could to some extent prevent the risk of ‘key informant bias’ (Maxwell 2005 p. 91). Their insights were also essential for addressing the question of authenticity, credibility, representativeness and meaning. Following the structured interview, I conducted informal qualitative interviews with the aquaponic practitioner to ask specific questions regarding the case study and clarify any discrepancies I had noticed in the interview data. I covered the history and his future plans, as well as the challenges he had encountered along the way. In all the interviews I directed my questions accurately to add to the depth of perspective on the case study and my analysis. The data were further supplemented with analysis of the observations made through several site visits. Unstructured interviews were considered suitable because I wanted to allow for unpredicted events or findings (Bryman 1999, Yin 2009). The interviews were kept within a time limit of one hour and questions varied according to the role and expertise and context of respondent. Analysis of Data Bryman and Burgess (1999) urge the researcher to be aware that the data available for analysis are only as good as the data that are recorded. As such the choice of a case study analysis was further justified by potential limitations associated with a unique case available to analyse. The data generated by the case was analysed accordingly as well as considering the external context, environment and the impact that these elements have had on the development, sustainability and monitoring of the aquaponic system being analysed. The knowledge I had gained from my literature review had distinguished recurring themes that form the basis of my analysis framework. Thus, the headings in the qualitative findings section mirror the headings in the literature review. In addition to the key themes identified in the literature, my analysis was influenced by informal interactions and observations of the stakeholders, case subject and sites, as well as my own interest and ongoing appreciation for aquaponics. Limitations The major limitation of the case study is that the data were collected on only one home based aquaponics system in the Northern region of Mauritius and can only be validated in the literature. Since literature in home based aquaponics in Mauritius is scarce, some of the claims cannot be validated and are just observations. In spite of these limitations, the identification of the only home based aquaponics system and a case study method approach to data collection ensures that enough conclusive evidence was generated to identify what factors to establish and operate a home based aquaponics system.

The Transformation of Edna Pontellier in The Awakening Essay -- Kate C

â€Å"She wanted something to happen- something, anything: she did not know what† (Chopin). In Kate Chopin’s novel, The Awakening, the reader is introduced to Edna Pontellier, a passionate, rebellious woman. Throughout the novel, it becomes apparent how unsettled Edna feels about her life. The reader can identify this by her thoughts, desires, and actions, which are highly inappropriate for an affluent woman of the time. In the novel, Edna has an awakening and finds the courage to make the changes she sees necessary. Kate Chopin is able to make quality connections in order to symbolize her innermost desires. Chopin does this by providing references to the sea, and the birds, and then using them to foreshadow Edna’s end of life decision. The sea is typically used in order to express strength, life/ death, and calmness. In The Awakening, Kate Chopin uses the sea as a way to communicate Edna’s strength and empowerment. Two references that examine this idea are made available: one for the transformation of her body and one for the transformation of her mind. Edna’s learn-to-swim experience transforms her body during her awakening. Overcoming her fears and learning to swim is a significant experience because it shows how she is able to gain control over her body: â€Å"The voice of the sea speaks to the soul† (Chopin). This is a powerful statement due to the fact that it represents how Edna undergoes a dramatic change in character. She goes from listening and acting upon the influences of society, to following her own mind and innermost desires. These both play a large part in understanding Edna’s personal transformation from a quiet and fearful girl to an empowered and independent woman. Across many forms of art, birds ... ...el progresses, an awakening can be observed. This awakening greatly transforms Edna’s body and mind. Kate Chopin makes this evident by her use of references to the sea, the birds, and the foreshadowing of Edna’s end of life decision. These quality connections show the suffering, empowerment, and innermost desires of Edna throughout the novel, The Awakening. Works Cited Chopin, Kate. The Awakening. New York: Herbert S. Stone and Co., 1899. Print. Garrett Brown, Kimberly. â€Å"Dropping Hints and the Power of Foreshadowing in Kate Chopin’s â€Å"The Awakening.† Blogs Goddard. The Pitkin Review. Spring 2010. Web. 20 March 2015. Mascarenhas, Cheryl. â€Å"Bird Symbolism and Their Meaning.† Buzzle. South University. 13 Feb. 2012. Web. 20 March 2015. Shmoop Editorial Team. "Birds in The Awakening." Shmoop. Shmoop University, Inc., 11 Nov. 2008. Web. 20 March 2015.

What Does It Mean to Be an Ethical Leader?

Running Head: CRJ220 Assignment 6 CRJ220 Assignment 6 Thomas Seagle Strayer University What does it mean to be an ethical leader? Obviously, one first has to be sure that one is not personally engaged in unethical and corrupt behaviors. Unfortunately, in many recent examples, leaders cannot pass even this first test. In addition, one has to take responsibility for the larger role responsibilities of a leader position.One of the most distressing aspects of public scandals involving public officials is the discovery that their wrongdoing was often well known to those who should have done something about it, the topic of the â€Å"Quote and Query† box. (Pollock, J. 2010 Ethical Dilemmas and Decisions in Criminal Justice Sixth Edition) Leadership is the position or function of a leader, a person who guides or directs a group. Criminal justice professionals should develop and maintain leadership skills in their professional and personal lives because it’s what they do.To som e, they are role models, but to all they are the ones who make and/or carry out the laws. Leadership involves the commitment, dedication, and risk taking attitude of the individual. Some leadership skills that they should obtain is (1) Quick thinking. This means that those working in criminal justice must be of sharp and sound mind, able to adapt to situations quickly and make snap decisions with good judgment. (2) Strong ethical sensibility. You should be ethical, act fairly and always in the best interest of the people. 3) People skills. You need to be able to communicate with others. Communication and people skills are critical in everything from directing traffic to conducting an interview to testifying in court. (4) Knowledgeable of laws. If you work in the criminal field you should be familiar and know the laws of the state and national. Especially officers, they should always be familiar with laws and how to enforce them. (5) Ability to handle stress. Most criminal justice jo bs, even office jobs, can be emotionally and/or physically demanding.They should maintain these because it’s what can help them and others. Ethics is a system of moral principles. Ethics applies to professional responsibilities. Where do ethics play a role in criminal justice? It would be where the people working the field are not supposed to be corrupt, or dishonest, but are allowed to lie to suspects as an interrogation technique. (Weaver, G. R 2006) A virtue ethics perspective considers the law enforcement character, motivations, and intentions (something we didn’t discuss at all under the other two perspectives).According to virtue ethics, it is important that the individual intends to be a good person and exerts effort to develop him or herself as a moral agent, to associate with others who do the same, and to contribute to creating an organizational context that supports ethical behavior. (Denton 2011) Can anyone argue against the idea that if leaders are honest, ethical, and caring, there is a good chance that those who work for them will also be ethical? If administrators and/or managers are hypocritical, untruthful, and use their positions for personal gain, workers often march in these same footsteps.If the business itself is premised on misleading the consumer and perpetrating fraud to secure higher profits, why should business leaders expect that workers would behave any differently? Trautman (2008) offers the â€Å"Corruption Continuum,† which details how organizations can become corrupt through(1) administrative indifference toward integrity, (2) ignoring obvious ethical problems, and creating a (3) hypocrisy and fear dominated culture, all leading to (4) a survival of  Ã‚  the fittest approach by individual employees (who will commit unethical acts to protect  themselves).In any organization, there are those who will almost always make ethical choices,  those who will usually make unethical ones, and those who can be i nfluenced one way or the other. The best course of action is to reward those in the first group and identify  those in the second group and encourage them to find other employment or at least remove them from temptation. Then organizational leaders must create an atmosphere for  the third group that encourages ethical decision making.This can be done by promoting  ethical administrators, rewarding morally courageous behavior, and providing clear and powerful organizational policies that emphasize worthwhile goals and honest means. (Pollock, J 2010 Ethical Dilemmas and Decisions in Criminal Justice Seven Edition) References Pollock, J. (2010) Ethical Dilemmas and Decisions in Criminal Justice Sixth Edition Retrieved June 3, 2012 Denton (2011) Ethics & Leadership in Criminal Justice Retrieved June 3, 2012 from http://www. ppapers. com/essays/Leadership-Skills-For-The-Criminal-Justice/818941 Weaver, G. R (2006) ‘‘Virtue in Organizations: Moral Identity as a Foundation for Moral Retrieved June 3, 2012 from http://media. wiley. com/product_data/excerpt /67/ EH EP 0017 /EHEP001767-2. pdf Pollock, J (2010) Ethical Dilemmas and Decisions in Criminal Justice Seven Edition Retrieved June 3, 2012 from http://www. scribd. com/doc/63772532/Ethical-Dilemmas-and-Decisions-in-Criminal-Justice

Viking Social Structure - Living in a Norse World

Viking Social Structure - Living in a Norse World Viking social structure was highly stratified, with three ranks or classes which were written directly into Scandinavian mythology, as slaves (called thrall in Old Norse), farmers or peasants (karl), and the aristocracy (jarl or earl). Mobility was theoretically possible across the three strata- but in general, slaves were an exchange commodity, traded with the Arab caliphate as early as the 8th century CE, along with furs and swords, and to leave slavery was rare indeed.   That social structure was the result of several changes within Scandinavian society during the Viking age. Key Takeaways: Viking Social Structure The Vikings in and outside of Scandinavia had a three-tier social structure of slaves, peasants, and elites, established and confirmed by their origin myth.The earliest rulers were military warlords called drotten, who were selected from warriors based on merit, only in power during wartime, and subject to assassination if they gained too much power.  Peacetime kings were selected from the elite class and they traveled throughout the region and met people in halls built in part for that purpose. Most provinces were largely autonomous of the kings, and the kings were also subject to regicide. Pre-Viking Social Structure According to archaeologist T.L. Thurston, Viking social structure had its origins with the warlords, called drott, which had become established figures in Scandinavian society by the late 2nd century. The drott was primarily a social institution, resulting in a pattern of behavior in which warriors selected the most adept leader and pledged fealty to him. The drott was an ascribed (earned) title of respect, not an inherited one; and these roles were separate from the regional chieftains or petty kings. They had limited powers during peacetime. Other members of the drotts retinue included: drang or dreng- a young warrior (plural droengiar)  thegn- a mature warrior (plural thegnar)  skeppare- captain of a chiefly vesselhimthiki- housekarls or the lowest rank of elite soldiersfolc- the population of a settlement Viking Warlords to Kings Power struggles among Scandinavian warlords and petty kings developed in the early 9th-century and these conflicts resulted in the creation of dynastic regional kings and a secondary elite class which competed directly with the drotts. By the 11th century, Late Viking societies were led by powerful, aristocratic dynastic leaders with hierarchical networks including lesser religious and secular leaders. The title given to such a leader was that of respect rather: old kings were frea, meaning respected and wise; younger ones were drotten, vigorous and warlike. If an overlord became too permanent or ambitious, he could be assassinated, a pattern of regicide which continued in Viking society for a long time.   An early important Scandinavian warlord was the Danish Godfred (also spelled Gottrick or Gudfred), who by 800 CE had a capital at Hedeby, inherited his status from his father and an army set to attack his neighbors. Godfred, probably overlord over the federated south Scandinavia, faced a powerful enemy, the Holy Roman Emperor Charlemagne. But a year after victory over the Franks, Godfred was assassinated by his own son and other relations in 811. Viking Kings Most Viking kings were, like warlords, chosen based on merit from the earl class. The kings, sometimes called chieftains, were primarily itinerant political leaders, who never had any permanent role over the whole realm. The provinces were almost entirely autonomous, at least until the reign of Gustav Vasa (Gustav I of Sweden) in the 1550s.   Each community had a hall where political, legal and perhaps religious matters were dealt with, and banquets were held. The leader met his people in the halls, established or reestablished bonds of friendship, his people swore oaths of allegiance and gave the leader gifts, and proposals of marriage were made and settled. He may have held a high priest role in cultic rituals.   Norse Halls Archaeological evidence concerning the roles of jarl, karl, and thrall is limited, but medieval historian Stefan Brink suggests that separate halls were constructed for the use of the different social classes. There was the house of the thrall, the banqueting hall of the peasant, and the banqueting hall of the nobleman.   Brink notes that in addition to being places where the itinerant king held court, halls were used for trade, legal, and cultic purposes. Some were used to house specialized craftsman in high-quality forging and skilled handicrafts or to present cult performances, attendance by specific warriors and housecarls, etc.   Archaeological Halls The foundations of large rectangular buildings interpreted as halls have been identified in numerous sites through Scandinavia and into the Norse diaspora. Banqueting halls ranged between 160–180 feet (50–85 meters) long, and 30–50 ft (9–15 m).  Ã‚  Some examples are: Gudme on Fyn, Denmark, dated to 200–300 CE, 47x10 m, with ceiling beams 80 cm in width and equipped with a double doorway, located east of the Gudme hamlet.  Lejre on Zealand, Denmark, 48x11, thought to represent a guild hall; Lejre was the seat of Viking age kings of ZealandGamla Uppsala in Uppland, central Sweden, 60 m long built on a man-made platform of clay, dated to the Vendel period CE 600–800, located near a medieval royal estateBorg on Vetvagoy, Lofoten in northern Norway, 85x15 m with cultic thin gold plates and imports of Carolingian glass. Its foundations built over an older, slightly smaller (55x8 m) hall dated to the Migration Period 400–600Hogom in Medelpad, 40x7–5 m, includes a high seat in the house, an elevated base in the middle of the building, thought to have had several purposes, high seat, banqueting hall room and assembly hall   Mythic Origins of Classes According to the Rigspula, a mythic-ethnologic poem collected by Saemund Sigfusson at the end of the 11th or beginning of the 12th century CE, Heimdal, the sun god sometimes called Rigr, created the social classes at the beginning of time, when the earth was lightly populated. In the tale, Rigr visits three houses and engenders the three classes in order.   Rigr first visits Ai (Great Grandfather) and Edda (Great Grandmother) who live in a hut and feed him husk-filled bread and broth. After his visit, the child Thrall is born. The children and grandchildren of Thrall are described as having black hair and an unsightly countenance, thick ankles, coarse fingers, and of being a low and deformed stature. Historian Hilda Radzin believes this is a direct reference to the Lapps, who were reduced to a state of vassalage by their Scandinavian conquerors. Next, Rigr visits Afi (Grandfather) and Amma (Grandmother), who live in a well-built house where the Afi is making a loom and his wife is spinning. They feed him stewed calf and good food, and their child is called Karl (freeman). Karls offspring have red hair and florid complexions.   Finally, Rigr visits Fadir (Father) and Modir (Mother) living in a mansion, where he is served roast pork and game birds in silver dishes. Their child is Jarl (Noble). The nobles children and grandchildren have blond hair, bright cheeks, and eyes as fierce as a young serpent. Sources Brink, Stefan. Political and Social Structures in Early Scandinavia: A Settlement-Historical Pre-Study of the Central Place. TOR 28 (1996): 235–82. Print.Cormack, W. F. Drengs and Drings. Transactions of the Dumfriesshire and Galloway Natural History and Antiquarian Society. Eds. Williams, James and W. F. Cormack, 2000. 61–68. Print.Lund, Niels. Scandinavia, c. 700–1066. The New Cambridge Medieval History c.700–c.900. Ed. McKitterick, Rosamond. Vol. 2. The New Cambridge Medieval History. Cambridge, England: Cambridge University Press, 1995. 202–27. Print.Radzin, Hilda. Names in the Mythological Lay Rigspula. Literary Onomastics Studies 9.14 (1982). Print.Thurston, Tina L. Social Classes in the Viking Age: Contentious Relations. C. Ed. Thurston, Tina L. Fundamental Issues in Archaeology. London: Springer, 2001. 113–30. Print.

The Effect of Brown V. the Board of Education essays

The Effect of Brown V. the Board of Education essays Martin Luther King Jr. stated in his famous I have a dream speech that, I have a dream my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character. I have a dream today! (3) Kings speech set the tone for a civil change in the society especially in the school system. The law during this time period was in favor of white society and felt the need to separate whites from blacks in every public place in society. The public school was another realm where white parents wanted separation between their children and blacks. Brown v. the Board of Education (1954) was a vital case that overturned the custom of separate but equal that was established by the Plessy verse Ferguson case. The Jim Crow laws were laws that enforced the separation of blacks and whites in society. Most all states in the south adopted the Jim Crow Laws. The issue of segregation was first brought up in the case of Plessy verse Ferguson. In 1890, Homer Plessy violated the Louisiana state law of The Separate Car Act by sitting in the white car of the train. Plessy thought since he was seven-eights white he was able to sit in the white only cars but police officials disagreed and regarded him as a black male.(Hartin 1) Plessys case was appealed all the way to the United States Supreme Court on the basis of the Thirteenth and Fourteenth Amendment (Hartin 1). The justices of the United States Supreme Court ruled against Plessy on the grounds of separate but equal. The justices stated that The Fourteenth Amendment could not have been intended to abolish distinctions based upon color, or to enforce social, as distinguished from political equality, or a commingling of the two races upon te rms unsatisfactory to either (Hartin 2). This code of separate but equal became the law of the land in the relationship between blacks and whites. Th...

Are Alternative Energy Sources the Answer to Ending Human Dependence Research Paper

Are Alternative Energy Sources the Answer to Ending Human Dependence on Oil - Research Paper Example Are alternative energy sources the answer to ending human dependence on oil? Defining alternative energy: Alternative energy is the resultant product of alternative fuels, and these are anything that is not â€Å"fossil† based. The question that needs to be answered here is whether or not alternative energy sources are really the answer to ending humanities dependence on fossil based fuels, primarily oil. According to an article in the Virginia Environmental Law Journal, â€Å"All renewable sources of energy (including hydroelectric, biomass, wind, geothermal, and solar) will increase by an annual rate of approximately 2.2 percent and will constitute over ten percent of the overall domestic energy production by 2030† (Rosenberg, 2008). Understanding the mechanisms behind wind energy: Wind power has been utilized for centuries to pump water, grind grain into flour and in the modern times it is used to generate electricity to drive appliances and more. There are many plac ers around the world where steady relatively strong winds remain almost all year long. In these locations the use of efficient wind power may in fact be beneficial, however, as some have seen the installation of wind powered turbines large enough to generate an adequate supply of electricity take up a substantial amount of land, and cause eyesores as well as displacement of wild animals in some areas. Additionally the use of expensive and maintenance intensive batteries filled with environmentally dangerous chemicals adds to the downside of wind power. These drawbacks do not necessarily mean that wind power is not a valid option, in fact they simply mean that there are areas where work should be applied to generate a less expensive, more environmentally sound approach to storage of the electricity and to the actual generation of it through wind power. For some in the windy areas of the United States installing individual wind generating systems and towers is a relatively inexpensive proposition with a long term benefit for the homeowner. Arizona has seen a proliferation of small home sized wind towers and more importantly solar power. Understanding the mechanisms behind solar energy: Solar energy is another form of renewable energy that is virtually free, it is the methods used to harness it that cause consternation or are currently cost prohibitive on a large scale. Solar powered farms generate large amounts of steam, which means they require a large amount of water and they use oil cooled piping and reservoirs to channel the steam and generate the electricity. As a result there are still environmental concerns, and of course the additional concerns that accompany the creation of several square miles of solar farms, which unfortunately is what it would take for a medium sized city. Though technology is advancing there are still drawbacks to the use of solar power. This of course does not mean that using solar power for the individual’s home or for a sm all co-operative of homes is not a beneficial idea. In fact with some of the newer longer lasting gel cell batteries that are relatively maintenance free one can economically supply power to a small community of 5-10 houses without utilizing coal or oil based electric sources. There are numerous small solar powered

The Life of Mary Jemison Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

The Life of Mary Jemison - Essay Example decades before and after the American Revolution; many captives, once adopted and integrated into an Indian community, refused the opportunity to return home, finding life in Indian society more rewarding. In 1823 Mary Jemison related her life story to James Seaver, a doctor who lived near her home in western New York. Seaver’s story of â€Å"the white woman of the Genessee,† as she became known, sold over 100,000 copies in 1824† (Captured By Indians: Mary Jemison Becomes an Indian). This paper briefly explains opinions of Mary Jemison about native American culture and relationship between Native Americans and Anglo-Americans in the eighteenth century based on the autobiography of Mary Jemison written by James Seaver. In family and society, Native Americans projected themselves as one of the most civilized community. But in the battlefield they never behaved like that. In fact they were so cruel in the battlefield that they never exhibit any humanitarian methods while fighting with others. Native Americans was loved their beloved ones deeply, but they never shown any sympathy or mercy towards other communities. In fact they were so cruel and their brutality was so severe that they never hesitated in kidnapping and killing of innocent people from other communities. Mary’s complete family has been brutally assassinated by the Native American tribes, The Indians, which forced Mary to describe them as brutal and uncivilized tribes The Native American culture during 18 th and 19 th centuries were not much civilized. Even though, her family members were killed by the Indians (Native Americans); the Indians have shown some mercy towards her and adopted her to the Native Indian community even though she was a white female. Mary has realized that even though the Indians are so cruel in the battlefield, they were not so in the family after staying together with them for a longer period. It was the duty of the men to protect the villages and homesteads as per the