TOW #7: Article (The Other Side of the American Revolution)

This opinion piece was written by Clayton McCleskey, who "is a contributing writer for The Dallas Morning News based in Washington." That gives him some credibility, although he doesn't need much since this is an opinion piece and he is therefore not obligated to be entirely accurate (unless he actually wants to make readers listen). McCleskey begins by mentioning the use of the Union Jack in the American Revolution. A select few would be bothered by this, but it unfortunately destroys his credibility in my eyes; at the time (and even technically until today) the flag was only called the Union Jack when flown on a ship of the Royal Navy. Otherwise, it was just a flag.

McCleskey convinces the reader that America misunderstands much of history by appealing to the reader's prejudices. He writes, "Misconceptions abound, from Sarah Palin’s belief that Paul Revere warned the British to the tea party’s rather misguided view of the true tax burden on the colonists." Those who dislike Palin and the tea party are likely to agree with McCleskey lest they be as ignorant as they find their enemies. I personally do not agree with the referenced politicians, so I find the comment humorous and relatable.

To end the peace, McCleskey appeals to nationalism by writing, "In the end, the history of the American loyalists is one of reconciliation and unity in the wake of bitter divides." This warm and fuzzy lesson is meant to soothe the readers after McCleskey told them that their knowledge of American history was likely incorrect or incomplete. After all, what's an essay about America without some display of national pride?

In my opinion, McCleskey well distributed his ideas to whatever newspaper reader was bored enough to pay attention to the editorials. Despite the Union Jack mishap, he drew in an audience and presented his main argument as indisputable fact, making him sound knowledgeable and credible. I'm not sure how well he would do in his Texas crowd, considering the jabs at Palin and the tea party, but in normal parts of the country he would be successful.

This picture accompanied McCleskey's article.

How... charming.

http://www.dallasnews.com/opinion/sunday-commentary/20110701-clayton-mccleskey-the-other-side-of-the-american-revolution-.ece