The paper "Virginia's Early Money of Account" by Raymond H. Williamson explores the historical development of Virginia's financial system from the early 1600s to the 19th century. It details the use of various forms of money, including tobacco and Spanish dollars, the impact of British mercantile policies, and the eventual transition to a decimal-based monetary system. The paper is organized chronologically and examines the economic strategies and challenges faced by Virginia's colonists.
The paper titled "Virginia’s Lost Industry" by John D. Capron, delivered on June 10, 1942, examines the history and decline of the iron industry in Virginia from 1619 to the 20th century. It traces the establishment, boom, and eventual stagnation of iron furnaces, highlighting the technological, economic, and wartime factors that influenced the industry. Key points include the initial rise of iron production, its pivotal role in various American wars, and the industry's decline due to depleted resources, outdated technology, and economic shifts.
VISION by Eric J. Sorenson discusses the transformative leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in the aftermath of World War I. It details Turkey's dramatic political and societal changes, Atatürk's efforts to modernize and Westernize Turkey, his secular reforms, and his emphasis on education and women's rights. The narrative also highlights Atatürk's military successes and the long-lasting impact of his vision on modern Turkey.
The impending fiscal crisis caused by Social Security and Medicare costs and the impact on younger generations. A tongue in cheek suggestion that Baby Boomers commiting suicide could be part of the solution and an examination of suicide and euthanasia in contemporaty society.
Dr. Reid Wodicka's presentation "Wait, what happened?" delved into the challenges and inefficiencies of the juvenile justice system in Virginia, emphasizing the high recidivism rates among youth. It highlighted the need for a trauma-informed approach and the implementation of evidence-based practices to improve rehabilitation outcomes in juvenile detention centers.
This academic paper by David T. Petty, Jr. delves into the complex world of lobbying in the United States, tracing its evolution from early practices to its contemporary state. Petty critiques the massive growth of the lobbying industry, its impact on legislation, and the challenges in regulating this sphere due to its roots in constitutional rights. He shares personal experiences with lobbying efforts, highlighting the nuanced roles lobbyists play in shaping legislation. The paper discusses various attempts at reform, including the Federal Regulation of Lobbying Act and recent legislative efforts, while emphasizing the importance of transparency and public scrutiny in mitigating undue influence on the political process.
Thomas C. Tiller explores the evolution of his appreciation for poetry, from initial disinterest to a deep engagement with poets and their works. He discusses the essence of poetry as both a creative and evocative form of expression, touching on its power to convey complex emotions and experiences. Tiller emphasizes poetry's role in significant life events and its capacity for social commentary, highlighting examples like Bob Dylan's Nobel Prize and the impact of Ukrainian poet Taras Shevchenko. The paper underscores poetry's diverse forms and the personal connection readers can find within its lines.
Handwritten letter from Walter Crenshaw to his mother dated 11 June 1898 from Camp Cuba Libre in Jacksonville, Florida.
Crenshaw served as a private in Company 4 of the 4th Regiment, Virginia Volunteers. The company reached Camp Cuba Libre on 07 June 1898 and joined the Third Brigade, Second Division, Seventh Army.
Crenshaw was discharged as a corporal on 22 November 1898.
Crenshaw's unit did not see service in Cuba during the Spanish-American War.
Camp Cuba Libre was established in response to overcrowding at camps in Tampa, Florida.
This letter is part of Manuscript 1942, The Crenshaw Family Collection, Folder 1.
Watchman, What of the Night? by A. F. Thomas, examines the parallels between biblical and contemporary global turmoil, advocating for moral integrity, democratic cooperation, and international governance. Thomas critiques the failures of post-WWI settlements, emphasizes the importance of moral law in political and economic realms, and suggests that the U.S. model of divided sovereignty could inspire a global democratic framework.
Thomas Ledford begins by discussing the 1927 Mississippi River Flood that is considered by many to be America's greatest natural disaster. Ledford analyzes the causes of major floods and then discusses past and future plans to control flooding. Unfortunately Captain Andrew Humphrey’s jealousy over the sound ideas of two excellent scientists threw flood control progress off track for seventy-five years. Despite new ideas about flood control, Ledford questions whether great river floods can ever be eliminated.
The paper examines the rise and fall of Enron, detailing its foundation, leadership, business practices, and the catastrophic consequences of its unethical and financially deceptive operations. Key points include Enron's aggressive expansion, mark-to-market accounting, special purpose entities, and the role of major figures such as Ken Lay, Jeff Skilling, and Andrew Fastow. The collapse illustrates broader issues in corporate governance and ethical failures in American business.
The paper discusses the author's reflections on Haiti's historical and current socio-political challenges, informed by personal experiences and interactions with the Haitian people. It outlines Haiti's history of exploitation and resilience, from the arrival of Columbus to recent political and natural disasters. The author highlights key figures, events, and the ongoing struggle for justice and development, advocating for a comprehensive, empathetic approach to aid and reconstruction.
This paper by Dr. H.B. Whiteman, titled "We Stole It, Fair and Square," discusses the history and political implications of the Panama Canal and the treaties related to it. It covers the construction of the Canal, the political debates surrounding its control, and the influence of nationalism and international politics. The paper integrates historical context with current controversies, including opinions on the U.S.'s role in Panama and the broader implications for international relations.
Dr. William W. Ferguson's lecture "Westward Ho" examines the principles behind the formation of the United States government, focusing on the Ordinance of 1787. The paper discusses the historical context, land policies, and governance structures that emerged post-Revolutionary War, emphasizing the significance of these developments in shaping American ideals and expansion.
The paper discusses the dissemination of erroneous and misleading information by government agencies during wartime, focusing on the issues arising from poor communication and the impact of censorship on public knowledge and morale. It examines specific instances where incorrect data led to significant consequences, highlighting the tension between maintaining national security and the public’s right to know. The organization of the paper explores the historical context, presents case studies, and critiques the systems responsible for information control and release.
Joe Stinnett's Sphex Club talk, "What Demi-god Hath come so near creation?" explores 19th-century photography in Lynchburg, focusing on daguerreotypist Peter E. Gibbs. Stinnett discusses Gibbs' techniques, notable works including an image of enslaved woman Mary Brice, and the cultural impact of photography in that era. The paper highlights the technical and social aspects of early photography.
The paper discusses George Stewart's role in the history and success of First Colony Life Insurance Company. It details First Colony's founding, major milestones, innovative marketing strategies, product development, and its impact on the life insurance industry. The paper emphasizes Stewart's leadership, the company's growth, and its eventual acquisition by General Electric.
The paper details a mission by U.S. environmental engineers to China in 1986, focusing on pollution control in water, wastewater treatment, and refuse. It highlights interactions with Chinese counterparts, visits to various industrial sites, and cultural experiences in China, emphasizing the interconnectedness and educational backgrounds of the participants.
John Mullen, a vice president of RJ Reynolds, explores the reasons for the Big Deal activity on Wall Street in the 1980s, culminating with the buyout of RJ Reynolds by KKR in 1988. He noted that two symbiotic factors contributed: junk bond financing and greed, both exemplified in the person of Michael Milken. The paper discusses Milken’s rise to power and its conjunction with changes in the securities industry and other sectors of finance.
This paper by David T. Petty, Jr. discusses the complex scenario of U.S. foreign policy and governance in Iraq, focusing on the transition towards democracy post-Saddam Hussein's regime. It critically examines the U.S. administration's decisions, the role of external influences, and the challenges faced in establishing a democratic governance structure in Iraq, highlighting key issues such as the influence of religious and ethnic divisions, the impact of foreign intervention, and the prospects for future stability and democracy. The paper is structured to explore the historical context, the governance efforts by the U.S., the political landscape, and the ideological challenges, concluding with different viewpoints on the mission in Iraq and its implications for U.S. foreign policy.
Richard P. Gifford's paper "WHAT WE HAVE HERE IS A FAILURE TO COMMUNICATE," explores the evolution of human society through the development of tools of production, transportation, and communication. Gifford emphasizes the significant role of communication tools in societal progress and advocates for their increased public support to counteract the negative effects of urbanization and enhance human connection.
This academic paper explores the author's philosophical reflections on fate, destiny, and human agency through a narrative blending personal experiences, historical events, and contemplation of life's mysteries. Russell delves into the extent to which human lives are shaped by their actions versus predetermined destiny, inspired by his own life's highs and lows. The paper discusses the impact of significant events, such as President Kennedy's assassination, and integrates Russell's musings on spirituality, scientific progress, and changing societal norms on religion and morality. Through a mix of anecdotal evidence and speculative reasoning, Russell probes the essence of existence and the interplay between choice and fate.
What's a Nice Girl Like Juliana Barnes Doing in a Place Like...? by Joel Keyes explores the history and essence of fly fishing through the lens of Juliana Barnes, a 15th Century figure credited with pioneering literature on the subject. Keyes weaves social and psychological perspectives into the narrative, highlighting the sport's evolution, its social etiquette, and the personal fulfillment it offers beyond mere technique. He discusses the shift in fly fishing's demographic and its implications, emphasizing the sport's deeper values over contemporary commercialization and competitiveness. The paper ultimately serves as both a tribute to Barnes's legacy and a contemplation on the intrinsic rewards of fly fishing, advocating for a return to its roots in respect, solitude, and connection with nature.
