Antebellum Homes - Architecture of Time and Place

Antebellum Homes - Architecture of Time and Place Antebellum homes refer to the large, elegant mansions - usually plantation homes - built in the American South during the 30 years or so before the American Civil War (1861-1865). Antebellum means before war in Latin. Antebellum is not a particular house style or architecture. Rather, it is a time and place in history - a period in American history that triggers great emotions even today. Antebellum Time and Place The features we associate with antebellum architecture were introduced to the American South by Anglo-Americans, outliers who moved into the area after the 1803 Louisiana Purchase and during a wave of immigration from Europe. Southern architecture had been characterized by whoever lived on the land - the Spanish, the French, Creole, Native Americans - but this new wave of entrepreneurs began to dominate not only the economy, but also the architecture in the first half of the 19th century. Great numbers of Europeans seeking economic opportunities emigrated to America after Napoleans defeat and the end of the War of 1812. These immigrants became the merchants and planters of goods to trade, including tobacco, cotton, sugar, and indigo.  The great plantations of Americas south flourished, largely on the back of a slave labor force. Antebellum architecture is so intertwined with the memory of American slavery that many people believe these buildings are not worth preserving or, even, should be destroyed. Stanton Hall, for example, was built in 1859 by  Frederick Stanton, born in  County Antrim, Northern Ireland. Stanton settled in  Natchez, Mississippi to become a wealthy cotton merchant. The plantation homes of the south, like Stanton Hall built before Americas Civil War, expressed wealth and the grand revival architectural styles of the day. Typical Characteristics of Antebellum Houses Most antebellum homes are in the Greek Revival or Classical Revival, and sometimes French Colonial and Federal style - grand, symmetrical, and boxy, with center entrances in the front and rear, balconies, and columns or pillars. This opulent style of architecture was popular throughout the U.S. in the first half of the 19th century. Architectural details include hipped or gabled roof; symmetrical faà §ade; evenly-spaced windows; Greek-type pillars and columns; elaborate friezes; balconies and covered porches; central entryway with a grand staircase; formal ballroom; and often a cupola. Examples of Antebellum Architecture The term antebellum stirs thoughts of Tara, the palatial plantation home featured in in the book and movie Gone with the Wind. From grand, pillared Greek Revival mansions to stately Federal style estates, Americas antebellum-era architecture reflects the power and idealism of wealthy landowners in the American South, prior to the Civil War. Plantation homes continue to rival Gilded Age mansions as Americas grand estates. A few examples of antebellum homes include Oak Alley Plantation in Vacherie, Louisiana; Belle Meade Plantation in Nashville, Tennessee; Long Branch Estate in Millwood, Virginia; and Longwood estate in Natchez, Mississippi. Much has been written and photographed of the homes of this time period. This architecture of time and place has served its original purpose, and the question now for these buildings is, Whats next? Many of these homes were ruined during the Civil War - and later by Hurricane Katrina along the Gulf Coast. After the Civil War, private schools often consumed the properties. Today, many are tourist destinations and some have become part of the hospitality industry. The question of preservation is ever-present for this type of architecture. But, should this part of Americas past be saved? Boone Hall Plantation near Charleston, South Carolina, was an established plantation even before the American Revolution - in the 1600s, the Boone family became original settlers of the South Carolina colony. Today the buildings on the grounds of this tourist destination have been largely rebuilt, with an attitude of integration of the lives of all, including a slave history presentation and a Black History in America exhibit. In addition to being a working farm, Boone Hall Plantation exposes the public to a time and place in American history. After Katrina: Lost Architecture in Mississippi New Orleans was not the only area damaged by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The storm may have made landfall in Louisiana, but its path ripped straight through the length of the state of Mississippi. Millions of trees were uprooted, snapped or severely damaged, reported the National Weather Service from Jackson. It was the fallen trees that caused just about all of the structural damage and downed power lines across this region. Hundreds of trees fell onto homes causing minor to major damage. Its impossible to calculate the full extent of Hurricane Katrinas damages. In addition to the loss of lives, homes, and jobs, towns along Americas Gulf Coast lost some of their most valuable cultural resources. As residents began to clean up the rubble, historians and museum curators began to catalog the destruction. One example is Beauvoir, a raised cottage built shortly before the Civil War in 1851. It became the final home for Confederate leader Jefferson Davis. The porch and columns were destroyed by Hurricane Katrina, but the Presidential archives remained safe on the second floor. Other buildings in Mississippi were not so lucky, including these destroyed by the hurricane: The  Robinson-Maloney-Dantzler HouseBuilt in Biloxi c. 1849 by English immigrant J.G. Robinson, a wealthy cotton planter, this elegant, columned home had just been refurbished and was about to open as a Mardi Gras Museum. The Tullis Toledano ManorConstructed in 1856 by cotton broker Christoval Sebastian Toledano, the Biloxi mansion was a stately Greek Revival home with massive brick columns. Grass LawnAlso known as Milner House, this 1836 Antebellum mansion in Gulfport, Mississippi was the summer home of  Dr. Hiram Alexander Roberts, a medical doctor and sugar planter. The home was destroyed in 2005 by Hurricane Katrina, but in 2012 a replica was built on the same footprint. The controversial project is reported well by Jay Pridmore in Rebuilding a Historic Mississippi Plantation. Preservation of National Historic Sites Saving great architecture played second fiddle to saving lives and public safety concerns during and after Hurricane Katrina. Cleanup efforts began immediately and often without adhering to the National Historic Preservation Act.  So much damage was done by Katrina that there was a great need to clean up the debris, but little time to enter into the proper consultation required by the National Historic Preservation Act,† said Ken P’Pool of the Historic Preservation Division, Mississippi Department of Archives and History. A similar circumstance happened in New York City after the terrorist attacks of 9/11/01, when clean-up and rebuilding was mandated to work within what had become a national historic site. In 2015, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) completed a database of properties and archaeological sites, reviewed thousands of recovery projects and grant applications, and erected cast aluminum historic markers commemorating 29 of the hundreds of lost properties. Sources The Story of Stanton Hall, stantonhall.com/stanton-hall.php [accessed July 21, 2016]A Look Back at Hurricane Katrina, National Weather Service Jackson, MS Weather Forecast OfficeNational Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet, NPS Form 10-900-a Prepared by William M. Gatlin, Architectural Historian, August 2008 (PDF)FEMA Helps Mississippi Preserve Important Architectural Properties, DR-1604-MS NR 757, August 19, 2015 [accessed August 23, 2015]

Effects of Migration Into Cities Essays

Effects of Migration Into Cities Essays Effects of Migration Into Cities Essay Effects of Migration Into Cities Essay The effects of moving into a new city or town Today everybody is going in the glamorous world of cities where one can progress and make the best use of his or her life. Parents†¦.. Listen to their talks with their children. They say that my son or daughter will settle or go to abroad one day. And with this they start imagining and forcing their child to get highest degree and run away from where they are. Each parent today has this mentality that there is heaven like something in abroad and much else. There are many such examples to discuss. But for now one is enough I think. In terms of living a life in a new city there are many possibilities of advantages as well as disadvantages as can be seen in education, employment and settlement point of view. These three things can be much better improved in a city where there is much scope to put a step forward towards his or her aim. In a city each one who is settled there has only one intention to earn a gallon of paper notes and coins and live a luxurious and easy way of life. This luxurious life is expected by all people. But there is something called feeling of attachment. There is an attachment towards his or her native place. One cannot forget his or her childhood days or their neighbours and the love between them. Emotions are not allowed in a city or the town. Today since all the places are becoming industrialized there is no space for emotions but only profit. And because of this all the people are running after them. There is a great effect on especially the country. Since all the citizens are settled in abroad and the income they earn is of no use to the country, the country’s economic status lowers as compared to other countries. The newer generation is no longer staying in their native country specially India. India is full of corruption, they say. But it is not so. If the abroad based thinkers try, the situation can be changed. The major disadvantage of moving to a new city is the loss of attachment to the native place and their neighbours. From birth we are attached to our villages or town, its nature, its culture and its people. But as we move to a new area, far from ours, we cannot accept its culture and people very easily. We cannot adjust there due to our unforgettable habits with our ulture. As we move to a new city, we have to accept the people, the culture, and their behaviors and accordingly we have to adjust. But it is not so easy. Since the people are keenly interested in earning money and luxurious life they are ready to do anything for this. According to me, I can’t accept the concept of moving to a new place permanently. Because it affects our native place or country. Earlier during the British rule all the intelligent brains of India were sent out to England or the other countries out of India. So that the foreign countries would progress better in terms of technology. But with this, India had to suffer in its progression. Today after British rule is no longer still their mentality always exists in each Indian that to go to abroad but not to stay here in India. The aim of writing this article is to aware the people of not to go to abroad but it is better and much better to stay in your own country and sacrifice your talents to your people and their future. Prachiti Ganpule SYBA, St. Xavier’s college, Mapusa Goa

Cyberspace and Society Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4750 words

Cyberspace and Society - Essay Example The latest figures indicate that 460,000 CCTV cameras were sold between 1996-1999 (Gadher, 1999). Clive Norris, a criminologist at Hull University stated "A million cameras could be a conservative estimate. On an average day in London, or any other big country in the United States, an individual is filmed by more thancameras from 30 different CCTV networks. The filming goes on throughout the day, and in some areas, such as the London Underground, it is constant" (Gadher, 1999). Local authorities run nearly CCTVs partly funded by Home Office grants. CCTV systems were initially installed in town centers to protect shops but, in the face of the fear of crime, spread to residential districts, schools and parks (Unsworth, 1999). In the United Kingdom cameras have not been found to deter crime (with cases of violence against shops on the rise by 44% between 1996-7) but they helped to secure conviction (Unsworth, 1999). Interestingly, it has been asserted that CCTV can be effective in reduc ing crime or the fear of crime, (Unsworth) and it is the perception of danger, not necessarily actual risk that may be significant. Cameras can be connected to computers with software capable of... In the United Kingdom cameras have not been found to deter crime (with cases of violence against shops on the rise by 44% between 1996-7) but they helped to secure conviction (Unsworth, 1999). Interestingly, it has been asserted that CCTV can be effective in reducing crime or the fear of crime, (Unsworth) and it is the perception of danger, not necessarily actual risk that may be significant. Cameras can be connected to computers with software capable of vehicle license plate recognition or face recognition. A computer-controlled surveillance system that automatically tracks police-designated target faces has gone into effect in East London. Software that can match people passing video cameras to facial images stored on a database has been developed and tested (Thomas, 1998). When the CCTV identifies a target face, the local police security team passes the information to police. The intent is to prevent mugging and shoplifting but civil liberties groups note that innocent people are bound to suffer, as mistakes inevitably will be made. There is a balance to be struck between crime prevention and our individual and collective freedoms. The use of this kind of technology strikes the wrong balance (Thomas, 1999). What is the purpose of data protection law Depending upon whose opinion is being voiced, data protection law can be variously heard described as a means of protecting an individual's fundamental right to privacy (Debussere, 2005), a mechanism for validating the commodification of data, a justification for overriding of privacy interests in the 'public interest' (Leith, 2002), or a disguised barrier to entrance to a nation's market for international competitors (Nijhawan, 2003: 492) to provide

Virginia Employment Laws Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Virginia Employment Laws - Essay Example Hiring professionals or other workers from foreign countries is always an option for management of human resources but t is always within the bounds of government policies and quotas provided by the governments of nations. For instance, the United States government and congress has always been revising its immigrant workers quota numbers from the year 1988 in order to favor employers and industries that need such workers. In the year 1998, the quota number was at 65000, which was further revised upwards to 115000 in the year 1999, and later to 195000 when the government went to the press seeking to revise the quota in order to benefit in this option of hiring of employees from other countries (Virginia Department of Labor and Industry, 2012). Many firms always opt for hiring foreign sourced workers in order to gain competitive advantage. There are many aspects to foreign employee hiring; for instance, some of these employees come cheaper than the domestic based employees in the same industry. Every immigrant program has its advantages and disadvantages. Hiring of foreign professionals, nonetheless, comes with its fair share of issues and challenges. It is not as costless as many people would think it is. This option always raises strategic issues on all levels of management in an organization. Among the issues that managers have to deal with when hiring foreign sourced employees or workers is the fact that the managers have to ensure that these employees have the right visas for the positions they have been sourced to take in the organizations (HG Experts, 2012). The United States of America has seen the number of immigrants into its borders increase as many people from various countries in the world go to America to seek better lives for themselves and for their families (West & Bogumil, 2012). These workers bring a lot to the American economy just like other employees in America. Immigrant workers are hard workers and also boost the purchasing power; which co nsequently leads to a boost to the economy of the country. Over the years immigrants have faced oppressive, exploitative, as well as deprived conditions in the places of work in the United States. Most of them are paid very low wages, and often have very little potential to advance in their jobs; let alone the potential for fulfillment. Additionally, these workers are faced with very hazardous working conditions. As a result of these conditions, therefore, the state of Virginia has come up with state laws to govern the way employees are treated within the state. To begin with, Virginia has the Virginia Payment of Wages laws which employers are required to go by in paying their employees; whether they are citizens or foreigners. Under this wage law, the employers are required to establish regular rates of pay, as well as payment dates (Virginia Department of Labor and Industry, 2012). All employees have to be paid their full wages and salaries as well. However, the employers are not bound by law to pay such benefits as holiday, sick, and vacation payments to their employees. Additionally, the employers are not allowed to make deductions on the employees’ pay in order to make payments like taxes and so on. Secondly, there is the Virginia Minimum Wage Act which applies to all employers who do

Capitalism is a force for social progress. Discuss. (Use listed Essay

Capitalism is a force for social progress. Discuss. (Use listed sources only) - Essay Example Social progress refers to improvement of the societies’ economic, social, and political structures. This can happen because of human action through social activism or as a social enterprise or as a natural part of the sociocultural evolution. Improvement in the living standards, industrialization, technological advancements are among the components of social progress. Developed countries have become richer as the years go by. Unfortunately, the social progress, which has always been the objective of social thinkers since 19th and 20th century, has eluded. The social bargain that the employees and the members of their families enjoyed the prosperity through their commitment to economic growth at mid-century has not been maintained. In America, for instance, the top 5% gain over 21% of the household income, while the bottom 5 received below 4% between them. In Britain, the difference between the rich and the poor has been greater since 19th century. The middle class families with the dream of achieving a stable career option have been directly affected by job insecurity. Similarly, the price of failure has been on the rising trend. Since 1970, the high school graduands are the first to experience low standard of living that the welfare provision for the unemployed have been stripped away. If the prospects of property are not brought by economic gro wth, the material pathway to human happiness rings hollow in the uncertainty face. There is only a smaller proportion of the society that can insulate themselves from the risk that affects other members of the society. This is not similar to majority of individual that operate within the middle wage bracket. The group stands to earn more so that they can cushion themselves from the increasing trend of survival cost. According to Friedrich Hegel, the strengths that strengthen the great nations in

Hamas: History, Funding and Interventions

Hamas: History, Funding and Interventions Hamas Hamas is a Palestinian terrorist organization which mainly consists of Islamic paramilitary forces. The name Hamas , means Islamic Resistance Movement. This Palestinian Islamic group was formed way back in 1987 as a result of the Israeli taking up most of the West Bank or Gaza strip. The militant group was founded by Sheikh Ahmed Yassin. He was of Egypt origin and was strongly supported by many charitable organizations and other social institutions. The Palestinian militants who are mostly Islamic affiliates, was therefore formed with the main aim of driving Israelis out of the West Bank. This was hence achieved through massive rocket attacks launched by the Hamas on the Israeli civilians as well as those who occupied the Gaza strip on the West Bank to get the Israeli moving back to Israel. The long-term goal of the Hamas has therefore been to establish strong Islamic states on all Palestinian territories that predominantly belonged to Palestine. The Hamas mainly fight for the restoration of Palestinians historic rights. The groups leader was at one time quoted for stating that the military operations of the group would cease once Palestinian historic rights were restored (Levitt Ross, 2007). Most scholars believe that Hamas is a socio-political organization. Hamas mainly occupy the Gaza side of Palestine. Therefore, the Hamas are mainly located in the Gaza strip on the Palestinian side where they won a majority of the parliamentary seats. Hamas is found on a solid document which by all means mimics terrorist tactics and lifestyle. The original document that binds the Hamas strongly condemns the Israeli and declares war on them. The group is however not poised towards the destruction of Israelites alone. It is also concerned with the social wellbeing of the Palestinians. Prior to the formation of the Hamas group, the Israeli government subjected the group to thorough economic sanctions. Diplomatic sanctions were also rife in the new organization. This almost grounded most of their operations at the initial stages before they gained foot and became independent. There are two main branches within the group. The first is concerned with the social programs which have seen the construction of many schools, mosques and hospitals. Many of the schools within the Palestinian territories are built by the Hamas. The Hamas work in cohorts with the Muslims governments to provide the social amenities to its people. Many suggest that this has indeed impacted on the image of the organization and presented it as a positive organization, save for the destruction of Israel that it commits its members to. The second branch of the Hamas organization is concerned with the military operations. This is carried out below the surface and is led by Izz al-Din Qassam Brigades. This second branch was created in 1992. In addition, the militant group of Hamas operates independently and at times contradicts their own Hamas policies. The military faction of the Hamas at most times gives the group a dark image since many researchers have associated the group with destruction and murder. It is important that we understand the many faces of Hamas to appreciate their role in the Muslim world. Hamas is thus against any Israeli invasion of historically Palestinian territories. They are however the main cause of conflict in the Gaza strip. Understanding the genesis of the conflict is key to knowing how the Hamas operate and coordinate. Who funds the Hamas ? The Hamas obtains most of its cash from its supporters, who are mainly Palestinians and Arabs in different countries. They send money to support the military and social programs of the group. According to Milton-Edwards and Farrell (2010), the Hamas also get financial aids from the Muslim states who are enemies of the Israelis. These states buy arms and send the shipment to the Gaza strip to sustain the military operations of Hamas within the area. There have been efforts to try and block the accounts of the Hamas group, but all have been futile. Researchers confess that as long as Hamas receives support from the Muslim world, it is highly unlikely for the group to cease its operations within the West Bank. Although many of their supporters deny having any links with the terrorist group, it is evident that the Hamas have more friends and supporters than enemies. If anything, it is only the Israelis who are enemies of this militant group and this is the reason for their existence. The biggest supporter of the Hamas group is Saudi Arabia which contributes up to 50% of the groups finances (Hroub, 2006). Mishal and Sela (2000) estimate that the annual budget of the militant terrorist group is approximately, 70 million US dollars; this is a large budget which requires the support of several outside fronts to be able to meet it. Most of This money goes towards supporting schools, hospitals and religious organizations that are predominantly Muslim based. Moreover, many of the Islamic charity organizations support the Hamas and contribute immensely towards their large budget. Iran is also known to fund the Hamas budget though only to a small proportion. There are also several other Arab states that fund the groups operations since most if not all the Arab states are anti-Israel. Private charities continuously support the groups operations in the West Bank. These social institutions have supported Hamas for decades as a result of the groups affiliation to construction and development projects such as building schools, hospitals and religious organizations and institutions. Are they a threat to the U.S? The US supports Israel with massive proportions. The US support for Israel has never been concealed. On the other hand, the Hamas are enemies of the Israelis. This makes the circle complete; the US is therefore at threat of the Hamas. A keen look at the policies of the Hamas reveals that the Hamas group mainly fights Israeli forces that have occupied sites that are historically Palestine territory. According to Rosaler (2003), recent attacks on the US, including the 9/11 terrorist attacks were mainly propagated by forced believed to be of Hamas origin, the Al-Qaeda. The Hamas are closely linked to the Al-Qaeda, the main terrorist cell which makes the US shiver. The US directive to ban Hamas from accessing Jordan in 1999 sparked enmity and brutal underground war within the West Bank region. This action put US on the spot as a potential target. Furthermore, it is also evident that the US supports 100% of all Israeli military operations against the Hamas terrorist cell. The US often fights such distant war in the guise of ending terrorism. As such, the US invasion of Iraq had a hidden agenda. One of the reasons was to fight terrorist cells within the region which extended to the Hamas territories. The other reason which has often been largely contradicted is that the US has vested interests in the oil deposits within the region. Critics argue that the US is indeed putting its head into a bee hole by supporting the Israelis. The amount of support that Hamas has amassed from the Arab world is astonishing. It is only a matter of time before the group grows into other major branches and wedges continuous terrorist attacks on the Israelis and their formidable allies, the US. Tactics employed by the Hamas The Hamas has adopted several tactics that it uses to fight their wars. One of these tactics is through using children as human shields. This has been condemned by the Human Rights organizations worldwide. Israel claims to be in possession of a video footage showing the Hamas using children as human shield. In a country where there is no law, this kind of action cannot be effectively punished. Hamas continue to use this tactic to date while fighting their wars against the Israeli and its allies within the West Bank. Young children are often taught at an early age to hate the Israelites and declare war against them. These children are later used to fight in wars with Israeli forces. Most of the children who are used are normally given specific targets which they would walk to and blow up. For instance, in 2002, a child walked into a convoy of Israeli soldiers and blew himself up killing the entire group of soldiers. This sparked a series of attacks on the Hamas within the Gaza Strip. Moreover, the Hamas also use children combatants during war. This has also been largely condemned owing to the fact that children are not to be used at war. The children combatants are recruited through the Hamas website for children, the Al Fateh (Tamimi, 2007). Children combatants are revered for their skill and innocence at war, making them unsuspecting soldiers who kill with impunity. The children combatants are often trained by the Hamas groups in institutions established for this purpose. They are viewed as patriots and are hence given specific targets where they would launch attacks on civilians on a regular basis. Tamimi (2007) insinuates that Israeli forces within the West Bank have learnt their lessons not to trust children walking into their convoy. As such, any child approaching them is usually taken out immediately. The Hamas also wedge attacks on civilians of Israeli origin. This is a tactic that the group has used for many years now. It is mainly carried out by bombarding civilian dwellings in Israeli territories believed to be historically Palestinian territory. The Human Rights Watch has faulted Hamas for crimes against humans, by using children combatants and human shield and also for launching civilian attacks. This tactic has left Hamas with more enemies than friends. Attacks on civilians include car bombs, roadside bombs in areas or roads frequented by the civilians of Israeli origin, among other terrorist-like attacks. Rockets are often sent at targeted Israeli buildings and civilian territories, a fact that has often sparked enmity between the Israeli allies and the Palestinian Hamas affiliates. Guerilla warfare is perhaps the oldest tactic that Hamas continues to employ against Israeli forces within the West Bank. The Gaza Strip has been described as the home of guerilla tactics by the Hamas militant groups. It is here that many of the Israeli forces have died as a result of the guerilla warfare. How dangerous is the group today? Hamas is closely linked with major terrorists and pose a great security risk in the airspace and Israeli allied countries, such as the US. The group is also dangerous since it teaches children of Muslim origin to hate Israelis and the United States. The increasing number of suicide attacks within the Gaza Strip threatens to kill more innocent civilian in the coming future, hence the Hamas are dangerous. It is not clear when and where they will strike next. Their guerilla tactics makes them very dangerous. The terrorist attacks advanced by the Hamas threaten to stall economic developments within the West Bank region. Their proximity to civilians makes the group to be extremely dangerous as most of the casualty during wars wedged by them is innocent civilians. The group threatens regional peace at the Gaza Strip as well as the West Bank, hence making human life in these areas to be a challenge. The Hamas militant activities often leave many displaced away from their homes as they seek a safe haven. The group threatens international peace since its supporters offer a strong force against its enemies. The result may be two fronts facing each other, that is, the Israeli being supported by the United States and the Hamas being supported by the Arab nations such as Saudi Arabia. A World War may be brewing and waiting to happen. If left undeterred, the Hamas are likely to fight and displace the Israeli who have lived in the West Bank for years. This threatens the well being of the Israelis as they are exposed to being refugees. The Hamas group continues to develop underground cells which are a threat to the international security from the past terrorist activities witnessed. Conclusion The Hamas is an Islamic Resistance Movement which fights to restore the historic Palestine territories. This group has been a formidable force within the West Bank and Gaza Strip for years. Its main activities have been military organization against the Israelites as well as building schools, clinics, religious institutions among other social institutions. The Hamas group was formed way back in 1987 under the leadership of the Egyptian brother, Sheikh Ahmed Yassin. It derives its financing from Arab countries such as Saudi Arabia and Iran. Private charity institutions also support and finance the activities of the Hamas. The Hamas have a policy book which they follow, although this is beginning to be sidelined as the group advances. The militant branch of the group is mainly independent, managing its own affairs under Izz al-Din Qassam. Hamas therefore poses a serious threat to the security of the United States following several threats that the group has made against the United States for supporting the Israelis. The US on the other hand has remained vigil in its support of the Israeli forces in the West Bank region. Hamas use several dirty tactics to fight their wars including the use of children combatants. Children are also used as human shields during war, a fact that has been largely condemned by the Human Rights Watch dogs. Hamas also uses guerilla war tactics to effectively fight within the West Bank region against Israeli forces. Perhaps the worst tactic used by the Hamas is civilian attacks and suicide bombings which are rampant in densely populated districts in the West Bank region. This has often led to the killings of hundreds of innocent civilians. The Hamas thus pose a great security risk owing to the groups affiliation to terrorist activities such as suicide attacks, roadside bombs among other terrorist characterized attacks. The Hamas has thus grown into a fully fledged terrorist group and no longer merely advocates for the restoration of the Palestine historic rights. Recommendations Stopping the activities of the Hamas group will indeed be an uphill task owing to the large support that the group has amassed in the recent past. The Hamas group receives most of its support from the Arab nations which are foes with Israelis. It would be impossible to suggest that the Hamas military operations would be stopped through convincing the Arab countries not to support the groups activities. What about the private charity organizations? The best way therefore to stop the Hamas from advancing would be to place international sanctions on countries that support Hamas. These sanctions should be aimed at crippling the countrys economy such that there is very little that the countries can do in terms of foreign trade. International sanctions would work perfectly against the supporters and allies of the Hamas by denying them trade opportunities. The other recommendation would be to perhaps get to the root of the groups leadership using intelligence and eliminating them one by one. This would cripple the groups organization and thus they cannot be able to wedge any war. References Hroub, K. (2006). A New Hamas : The Politics of a Resistance Movement. Washington: Pluto Press. Levitt, M., Ross, D. (2007). Hamas : Politics, Charity, and Terrorism in the Service of Jihad. Edinburgh: Yale University Press. Milton-Edwards, B., Farrell, S. (2010). Hamas : The Islamic Resistance Movement. New York: Polity. Mishal, S., Sela, A. (2000). The Palestinian Hamas : vision, violence, and coexistence. Columbia: Columbia University Press. Rosaler, M. (2003). Hamas : Palestinian terrorists. Berlin: The Rosen Publishing Group. Tamimi, A. (2007). Hamas : a history from within. Sydney: Olive Branch Press.

The Pact Essay -- Pact Essays

The Pact Some of the things that Rameck, Sam, and George, the three boys in The Pact, were tempted with have occurred with my friend named Paul. Things such as temptations involving drugs, family issues, and the ways of life of the family. Paul's parents both dealt and did drugs, this made it hard for Paul to deviate from this kind of life. As time progressed he soon picked up the â€Å"family business† and started heading down the wrong path in life. These temptations to follow in the path of Paul's parents footsteps were very much the same as the temptation in which George, Rameck, and Sam had, which were the constant pressure from society and family. These temptations, many times, often lead to an increase in the chances of George, Rameck, and Sam's character cracking. For these reasons it made it hard for them to stay on the right track in life and to deviate away from what they were being raised in and to become better than that. Positive influences in their lives prevented them from succumbing to the calls of the streets and of the accepted norms. People such as the karate teacher who helped build self confidence and respect. Unfortunately for Paul he did not have these positive role models in his life to keep him focused and eventually got involved with drugs. He was a senior in high school with graduation just around the corner. Everything was going for him, he was on the Varsity football team, was heading off to college in a few months, and more importantly he wa...

Globalization Argumentation Essay

( 1. Premise ) Globalization effects on economic system. administrative. and geographical system of the states in an effectual mode. In today’s more ambitious and competitory concern epoch. globalisation is one of the most of import factors that have a direct or indirect consequence on the economic. administrative. and geographical system of the states in an effectual and proper mode. There are rapid alterations in the economic sciences of the states. due to globalisation. In add-on. different sorts of issues are developed or created by the globalisation to the states. Besides. these are set uping the states straight or indirectly. For illustration. High hazard investing in other states is considered a important issue. ( 1. Decision ) â€Å"After the globalisation of the worldwide market. foreign investors faced the high hazard to put in the other state due to the differences in administrative. geographic. economic. civilization and demographic status of the states. † ( Lynch & A ; Gemini. 2010 ) ( 2. Premise ) Globalization contributes to the betterment of engineering that helped national companies. There are assorted technological betterments that create effectual part in the globalisation of markets and production. It is identified that the usage of computing machines help the companies to follow globalisation and better its market portion in the planetary market. In computing machines. the usage of the cyberspace aid companies go planetary and add excess characteristics to their production and operation activities. ( 2. Decision ) â€Å"Through international engineering. companies are besides able to accomplish competitory advantages over national and international rivals in an effectual manner. † ( Mobius. 2012 ) ( 3. Premise ) Globalization provides options of companies to better their concern through enter in the new state market. One betterment in engineering related to alter in the transit engineering helped the companies make globalisation of markets and production. The development of commercial jet aircraft and ace combatants and development of ship transit aid companies simplify the trans-shipment from one manner of conveyance to another. ( 3. Decision ) â€Å"Globalization helps companies to better its market presence in the planetary market and present new production workss in different states of the universe to supply the right merchandise to the right clients at the right clip with the lowest cost† ( Peng. 2009 ) . ( 4. Premise ) Globalization provides options of the companies to better their place to pull or make the new market and more clients. Technology is helpful for companies to bring forth planetary chances through pulling planetary clients for merchandises and services. Changes in the telecommunication and debut of the World Wide Web aid companies connect with the planetary clients in an effectual manner and develop the chances in order to better the market. There are assorted planetary selling trends a planetary company needs to carry through. The altering demand of clients. alterations in advertisement media and attractive force for planetary clients are all of import. In order to make this mark. planetary sellers need to aim planetary advertisement in order to pull planetary clients in an effectual manner. ( 4. Decision ) â€Å"Through the aiming planetary advertisement for the merchandises and services. companies can besides increase its client base in the international market and can accomplish competitory advantages over rivals in national and international market† ( Shan. 2012 ) . The first premiss is an illustration of inductive logical thinking as it is intended merely to be so strong that. if the decision is different with premises. First premiss: globalisation impacts on states economic system. administrative. and geographical system. but the decision states differences that after the globalisation. foreign investors face the high hazard of investing in other states due to the differences in countries’ administrative. geographic. economic. civilization and demographic status ( Swenson. 2005 ) . In add-on. deductive statement is thought to be wholly guaranteed of the premises truth. which means the decision is similar to the premiss. Premise 2 is the illustration of the deductive statement as the premises and decision is the same. which the globalisation or internationalisation contributes into the betterment of engineering as international engineering reached of the companies that helped companies to accomplish competitory advantages. Mentions Lynch. M. & A ; Gemini. C. ( 2010 ) . Wealth: How the World’s High-Net-Worth Grow. Sustain. and Manage Their Fortunes. USA: John Wiley & A ; Sons. Mobius. M. ( 2012 ) . Passport to Net incomes: Why the Following Investment Windfalls Will be Found Abroad and How to Catch Your Share. USA: John Wiley & A ; Sons. Peng. M. W. ( 2009 ) . Global Business 2009. USA: Cengage Learning. Shan. W. ( 2012 ) . The Legal Protection of Foreign Investment: A Comparative Study. USA: Hart Publishing Limited. Swensen. D. F. ( 2005 ) . Unconventional Success: A Cardinal Approach to Personal Investment. USA: Simon and Schuster.

External Analysis of Kraft Foods Essay

Kraft is the number one manufacturer of snacks in the U. S. and the world’s number two food company (Kraft Foods SWOT analysis, n.d.). Our goal is to maintain and improve those statistics. Results of the Porter’s 5-Forces There is a low threat of entry of new manufacturers. The food industry is already glutted with companies who rival Kraft. ConAgra ($11.62B revenues in 2012), and Nestle ($93.06B) represent the top across-the-board rivals. The Kellogg Company (13.65B) also holds 34.2% of the cereal market (Kraft Annual Report, 12/31/2011). There is a low availability of substitutes. The devastating drought in the U. S. has caused enormous drops in the supply of crops and animals. With diminished supplies when demand is high, suppliers bargaining power is also medium to high. Poor economic conditions coupled with heightened sensitivity to nutritional values have given customers a medium bargaining power (Lempert, P., 12/21/12). Results of the PEST analysis Political unrest in Egypt forced Kraft to suspend operations there (IUF newsier 2012). Likewise, the takeover of the Cadbury company and subsequent closing of the major plan in England have spawned much negativity toward Kraft (Chellel, Kit 5/23/2011). America’s middle class has shrunk by ten percent in the last 40 years and unemployment means consumers are being very cautious with how they spend their money (Lempert, P., 12/21/12). Shopping trends are focusing on health concerns and especially obesity (Kraft Foods SWOT analysis, n.d.). Over the net grocery shopping is becoming more popular (Lempert, P., 12/21/2012). With the advent of Facebook and Twitter, jilted employees, their families, and others who perceive unfairness dramatically weaken a company’s revenues with a few keystrokes. (Kraft Annual Report 10K 12/31/2011). Opportunities and Recommendations Kraft has the opportunity to re-configure marketing and packaging to tap further into the huge health and wellness market. They can educate the public about the advantages of healthy snacks. Kraft should promote the use of different individual pre-packaged and/or frozen items to make or supplement meals as opposed to buying a whole dinner. The consumer can be educated about the nutrition and time savings associated with a-la-carte items which can be used in conjunction with or in addition to a main dish. Kraft has the opportunity to re-examine the proteins in their products. Because of diminished supply of meat, alternate protein sources should be investigated. I feel the greatest concern right now is regaining and maintaining the Kraft name and reputation. It is imperative to keep the Kraft brand associated with good foods and healthy snacks. By implementing these changes, the company can go forward with even better bottom line results. INTRODUCTION In this report, I have analyzed the effects of Porter’s 5 forces upon Kraft Foods Industry. I have documented sources to validate those effects. The information presented is the latest available. I have also done a PEST analysis using the information gleaned from the previous sources as well as other references. I have given impressions concerning Kraft Foods Company from both an internal and external viewpoint. In conclusion, the recommendations for the company should result in better overall performance. Porter’s Five Forces Threat of Entry (low) There is a limited threat that more manufacturers will start up in the food industry. It is cost prohibitive pursuant to start up, marketing, advertising, and building brand loyalty. There are a sufficient number of competitors for Kraft Foods already. Especially at this economical slow down, no formidable threats seem likely (Food Retailing Industry, 2012). Rivalry (high) Kraft Foods has a high degree of competition rivals. ConAgra ($11.62B revenues in 2012), and Nestle ($93.06B) represent the most across-the-board rivals. Other peer groups with partial product competition and their 2011 revenues include: âž ¢ Campbell Soup Company (7.88B) âž ¢ The Coca-Cola Company(47.60B) âž ¢ General Mills, Inc.(17.12B) âž ¢ H.J. Heinz Company (11.62B) âž ¢ Hershey Foods Corporation(6.64B) âž ¢ Kellogg Company (13.65B) which also holds 34.2% of the cereal market, âž ¢ PepsiCo, Inc.(65.70B), and âž ¢ Unilever N.V. Hillshire (4.09B). (Kraft Annual Report 12/2011) (Morningstar KRFT competitors 2011). Substitutes (low) Kraft is the number one manufacturer of snacks in the U. S. and the world’s number two food company (Kraft Foods SWOT analysis, n.d.). Growing your own, buying fresh foods, and eating out would be alternatives to Kraft’s processed foods. For most consumers, time and money constraints would preclude these alternatives. Because of the slow economy and high rate of unemployment, many consumers are turning to home cooked meals rather than buying a complete processed meal (Reports, Statistics and Analysis (2/2/12). Bargaining Power of Suppliers (medium to high) According to Phil Lempert, the supermarket guru, the devastation of the drought in the United States in 2012 has caused exponential upsets in the food industry. There were enormous losses of both crops and animals. Because of this situation, suppliers have less produce and can demand higher prices. Higher prices of groceries have forced the consumer to take note of how much food is being wasted. They are investing those grocery dollars in good snacks and healthy meals (Lempert, P., 12/21/12). Bargaining Power of Customers (medium) Poor economic conditions have necessitated smarter use of grocery dollars. The grocery shopper wants quality products for a reasonable price. Pre-packaged whole meals have given way to more home cooking (Reports, Statistics and Analysis 2/2/12). Improved technology is adding to the clout that customers have. Baby boomers and millennials are using apps to search out similar products at better prices. Health concerns mean consumers are reading labels and demanding to know where their food comes from. (Food Retailing Industry 2012). There is little involved for the consumer in switching brand loyalty. Customers are commanding a heftier share of bargaining power than previously because of instant information about prices and alternatives. PEST Political In 2011, political upheaval in Egypt forced Kraft to suspend operations there. Of the 300 workers, 250 had joined to form a Union. In 2012, the new government instituted a social allowance which Kraft refused to pay resulting in a 3-day sit-in. Kraft fired five board members hoping to eliminate the union. This has caused much negativity toward Kraft. (IUF newswire 2012). Kraft Foods bought out Cadbury and executed some perfectly legal but questionable tactics in doing so. The takeover and subsequent closing of one of the main factories in England left many people with anger and bitterness against Kraft (Chellel, K., May 23, 2011). Both of these incidents give a glimpse into how inner company workings become front-page news. Government and political entities necessarily interact with corporations all the time but when the reputation of the company is damaged, it takes a long time to recover. Economic Environment The worst U. S. drought in 50 years has caused a significantly reduced supply of raw products. America’s middle class has shrunk by ten percent in the last 40 years and unemployment means consumers are being very cautious with how they spend their money (Lempert, P., 12/21/12). The world economy is also in a down slope. Sociocultural Environment The public demands for healthier foods and snacks has increased. Baby boomers and millennials (those born between 1982 and 2004) want better control of what they eat, where it came from and its nutritional value. They are more health conscious than any other generations of peoples. People in general are focusing on health concerns and especially obesity (Kraft Foods SWOT analysis, n.d.). With high unemployment and decreased disposable income, cooking at home has replaced purchasing whole meal packages (Lempert, P. 12/21/2012). Technological Environment Technology, especially the internet, has radically changed the lives of everyone. Today’s consumer is constantly on the move and looking for ways to save time and money. Some of that may be achieved by utilization of an app that lets the consumer compare values and prices of similar products. Over the net grocery shopping is becoming more popular (Lempert, P., 12/21/2012). In Kraft’s 2011 Annual Report, they recognize the impact of social networks such as Facebook and Twitter. Even more damaging than public media, unhappy customers can breed negativity with rumors and innuendoes (Kraft Annual Report 10K 12/31/2011). Overall Impressions Concerning the Company’s Environment Opportunities The cost of grains and meat will be constantly rising forcing grocery prices up over the next few years. Coupled with the growing nutritional and health concerns, Kraft has the opportunity to re-configure marketing and packaging to tap further into the huge health and wellness market. They can educate the public about the advantages of healthy snacks. Because money is tight and many people are returning to home cooking, Kraft has an opportunity to promote the use of different individual pre-packaged and/or frozen items to make or supplement meals as opposed to buying a whole dinner. The consumer can be educated about the nutrition and time savings associated with a-la-carte items which can be used in conjunction with or in addition to a main dish. Kraft has the opportunity to re-examine the proteins in their products. Because of diminished supply of meat, alternate protein sources should be investigated. Threats The Cadbury debacle and the politically-based problems in Egypt have produced much negative press about Kraft. When the reputation of the company is damaged, it takes a long time to recover. Even though Kraft ranks high on the national and global storefronts, a tarnished reputation causes consumers to re-think brand loyalty. . Even more damaging than public media, unhappy customers can breed negativity with rumors and innuendoes. With the advent of Facebook and Twitter, jilted employees, their families, and others who perceive unfairness dramatically weaken a company’s revenues with a few keystrokes. Conclusion Kraft continues to be a leading snack and processed food corporation. I feel their greatest concern right now is regaining and maintaining their reputation. It is imperative to keep the Kraft brand recognition associated with good foods and healthy snacks. By implementing these changes, the company can go forward with even better bottom line results. REFERENCES Chellel, Kit (5/23/2011) eFinancial News. Kraft vs. Cadbury: A bittersweet deal. Retrieved 2/3/13 from http://www.efinancialnews.com/story/2011-05-23/kraft-cadbury-bittersweet-deal. External analysis for Kraft Foods, (June, 2011) Retrieved 2/4/13 from https://docs.google.com/document/d/19liGjGKT76-tSjr_lz1M47bLd99BDFBJlSvHv5BYhzw/preview IUF newsier (2012) Kraft Egypt removes union leaders who called

Greg Knox - Inventor essays

Greg Knox - Inventor essays Heroes and role models influence lives everywhere, often without even knowing it. Celebrities, relatives, friends; even book characters impact teens lives, leading to better choices and clear goals for the future. Greg Knox earned the position of my role model. Greg is a successful inventor and entrepreneur who always stands by what he knows is right, and I admire those qualities in him. I value traits such as those, and applaud Gregs authoritative take on life. A figure who has taken fruition from his propositions and has scarcely backed down from the prime choice he selected I look up to him for that. Greg Knox exceeds the norm; rather than tarry and allow success to find him, Greg ventured out himself to wrangle the beast. Knox invented the Trunk Tracker, initiated a company, Synthecom, and engineered for NASA. Knoxs most commendable achievement? The creation of the Trunk Tracker. The Trunk Tracker aids the user by allowing them to tune in to various other radio frequencies. Bolstering Greg along the way: his extensive knowledge of technology, math, and science. His learnings also guided and aided him as he fixed and created many apparatuses to offer assistance in everyday life. Playing to his strengths favored Knox, and urged him onwards to his goal of an invention. Of course, Greg required an outlet from which to distribute his gadget from, and began considering the possibility of a company. Knox began the company with a business partner, and they soon triumphed. Actualizing his company, Synthecom, presented Greg with nearly instantaneous satisfaction. However, After a while , sales began to dwindle, and an alternative source needed consideration. This forced Greg to face a hard decision: let the company go, or keep selling a mediocre quantity of his product. After much speculation, a consensus was reached, and Greg Knox, along with his business partner, allowed a separate company, Uniden, to distribute the Tr...

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Accounting field project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

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