Yacine Fall
Journal Writing Assignment
Module 5
Video 1: “Gibbons v Ogden - Oyez, Oyez, Oh Yay!"
The video "Gibbons vs Ogden - Oyez, Oyez, Oh Yay!" talks about an important Supreme Court case from
1824. It covers a fight over who could operate steamboats in New York: a state law or a federal law. The
Court decided that the federal government has the power to regulate trade between states, which means
federal laws can override state laws. This case helped clarify the balance of power between state and
federal governments.
One part of the video that really interested me was when it talked about the impact of the ruling
on businesses (5:00 on YouTube). I was surprised to learn how the decision opened up
opportunities for entrepreneurs to operate across state lines without being restricted by local
laws. This showed me how important the case was for economic growth and innovation.
I thought it was significant because it helped create a more unified market in the U.S. It made me
see that the federal government plays a key role in supporting businesses and ensuring fair
competition.
Video 2: "PBS - Mill Times - David Macaulay"
The video "PBS - Mill Times - David Macaulay" talks about water-powered mills and how they changed
life and work in the past. David Macaulay explains how these mills operated using water to power
machinery. The video shows how important mills were for communities, helping with things like trade
and jobs.
One of the part of the video that really interested me was when it explained how water-powered
mills transformed local economies. I was amazed to learn how these mills not only provided jobs
but also brought communities together, allowing people to trade and collaborate more easily.
I found it significant because it showed how a simple technological innovation could lead to such
big changes in daily life and commerce. It made me appreciate the importance of these mills in
Yacine Fall
shaping our economic history. This understanding changed how I view industrial progress; I
realized that even small inventions can have a huge impact on society and the way people live
and work together.
Video 3: "PBS - Mill Times - David Macaulay"
The video "Worcester v. Georgia - Oyez, Oyez, Oh Yay!" talks about a Supreme Court case from
1832. It focuses on Worcester, a missionary who was arrested for living in Cherokee land
without permission from Georgia. The Court decided that Georgia couldn’t enforce its laws on
Cherokee territory, meaning the Cherokee had the right to govern themselves.
This ruling was important because it recognized the sovereignty of Native American nations and
highlighted the struggle between state and federal powers. The video shows how this case played
a key role in the fight for Native American rights.
One part of the video that really caught my attention was when it talked about how the Court
recognized the Cherokee’s right to govern their own land. I found it surprising that, despite
pressure from Georgia, the ruling supported Native American sovereignty.
This was significant because it showed the ongoing struggle for Native American rights and the
difficulties they faced. It made me realize how important legal decisions are for communities that
are often ignored.
