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Political Injustices In On The Rainy River, By Henry David Thoreau

529 Words3 Pages

This quote is very simple and understandable, yet it holds such a powerful meaning. It not only applies to everyday things but a bigger picture as well. Politics is a great example. When it comes to that topic not many people have much to say about it. Yes, many citizens have opinions but they never come out and do anything about it.

Throughout history there have been many instances where have people spoken out against political injustices. When I say speak out I don’t mean only in words but in actions as well. Such as Rosa Parks and not moving from her seat on the bus. Then, there are other cases where citizens just went along with the unfair treatment. “I was a coward. I went to the war.”(On the Rainy River). In this quote the main character was afraid to speak out against the Vietnam war. There for he went and yet no one ever knew that he disagreed with the war. This relates back to the quote at hand. He believed but he didn’t take action. Belief isn’t what makes change it all boils down to action. …show more content…

It’s our actions that hold the consequences. Like when Henry David Thoreau was arrested for refusing to pay a poll tax. Henry opposed the Mexican-American War and slavery. Therefore, he withheld his payment that would support those causes. “...I, Henry Thoreau, do not wish to be regarded as a member of any incorporated society which I have not joined.”( On the Duty of Civil Disobedience). This quote supports my previous statement that Thoreau knew what he believed in and stood for it because he knew action would be the only way to truly get his point across. A protester can

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