The American Civil War Essay Example for Free

The American Civil War Essay After the War of Independence the United States of America was governed by the Articles of Confederation. This provided for a weak central government and strong state governments. However, it proved unworkable and a new Constitution was adopted that resulted in a stronger Federal government with powers which included regulating interstate commerce as well as foreign affairs. The different states had varying policies concerning slavery. In some areas of the country where religious groups such as the Quakersplayed a prominent role in political life, there was strong opposition to having slaves. Rhode Island abolished slavery in 1774 and was soon followed by Vermont (1777), Pennsylvania (1780), Massachusetts (1781), New Hampshire (1783), Connecticut (1784), New York (1799) and New Jersey (1804). The new states of Maine, Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio, Indiana, Kansas, Oregon, California and Illinois also did not have slaves. The importation of slaves from other countries was banned in 1808. However, the selling of slaves within the southern states continued. Conflict grew in the 19th century between the northern and southern states over the issue of slavery. The northern states were going through an industrial revolution and desperately needed more people to work in its factories. Industrialists in the North believed that, if freed, the slaves would leave the South and provide the labour they needed. The North also wanted tariffs on imported foreign goods to protect their new industries. The South was still mainly agricultural and purchased a lot of goods from abroad and was therefore against import tariffs. In 1831 Arthur Tappan and Lewis Tappan established the first Anti-Slavery Society in New York. When two years later it became a national organization, Tappan was elected its first president. William Lloyd Garrison, Theodore Weld, Samuel Eli Cornish, Angelina Grimke, Sarah Grimke Robert Purvis, Wendell Phillips, John Greenleaf Whittier, Frederick Douglass, Lucretia Mott, Lydia Maria Child, William Wells Brownsoon emerged as the main figures in the organization. Its main supporters were from religious groups such as the Quakers and from the free black community. By 1840 the society had 250,000 members, published more than twenty journals and 2,000 local chapters. The growth in the Antislavery Society worried slaveowners in the South. They feared that the activities of the abolitionists would make it more difficult to run their plantation system. Where possible they wanted to see an expansion of slavery into other areas. They therefore supported the annexation of Texas as they were certain it would become a slave state. They also favoured the Mexican War and agitated for the annexation of Cuba. Conflict grew in the middle of 19th century between the northern and southern states over the issue of slavery. The northern states were going through an industrial revolution and desperately needed more people to work in its factories. Industrialists in the North believed that, if freed, the slaves would leave the South and provide the labour they needed. The North also wanted tariffs on imported foreign goods to protect their new industries. The South was still mainly agricultural and purchased a lot of goods from abroad and was therefore against import tariffs. In 1850 Congress passed the Fugitive Slave Law. In future, any federal marshal who did not arrest an alleged runaway slave could be fined $1,000. People suspected of being a runaway slave could be arrested without warrant and turned over to a claimant on nothing more than his sworn testimony of ownership. A suspected black slave could not ask for a jury trial nor testify on his or her behalf. Any person aiding a runaway slave by providing shelter, food or any other form of assistance was liable to six months imprisonment and a $1,000 fine. Those officers capturing a fugitive slave were entitled to a fee and this encouraged some officers to kidnap free African Americans and sell them to slave-owners. Frederick Douglass, Wendell Phillips, William Lloyd Garrison and John Greenleaf Whittier led the fight against the Fugitive Slave Law. Even moderate anti-slavery leaders such as Arthur Tappan declared he was now willing to disobey the law and as a result helped fund theUnderground Railroad. In 1854 Stephen A. Douglas introduced his Kansas-Nebraska bill to the Senate. These states could now enter the Union with or without slavery. Frederick Douglass warned that the bill was an open invitation to a fierce and bitter strife. The result of this legislation was to open the territory to organized migrations of pro-slave and anti-slave groups. Southerners now entered the area with their slaves while active members of the Antislavery Society also arrived. Henry Ward Beecher, condemned the bill from his pulpit and helped to raise funds to supply weapons to those willing to oppose slavery in these territories. Kansas elected its first legislature in March, 1855. Although less than 2,000 people were qualified to take part in these elections, over 6,000 people voted. These were mainly Missouri slave-owners who had crossed the border to make sure pro-slavery candidates were elected. The new legislature passed laws that imposed the death penalty for anyone helping a slave to escape and two years in jail for possessing abolitionist literature. In 1856 Abraham Lincoln joined the Republican Party and unsuccessfully challenged Stephen A. Douglas for his seat in the Senate. Lincoln was opposed to Douglass proposal that the people living in the Louisiana Purchase (Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Iowa, the Dakotas, Montana, and parts of Minnesota, Colorado and Wyoming) should be allowed to own slaves. Lincoln argued that the territories must be kept free for poor people to go and better their condition. Abraham Lincoln raised the issue of slavery again in 1858 when he made a speech at Quincy, Illinois. Lincoln argued: We have in this nation the element of domestic slavery. The Republican Party think it wrong we think it is a moral, a social, and a political wrong. We think it is wrong not confining itself merely to the persons of the States where it exists, but that it is a wrong which in its tendency, to say the least, affects the existence of the whole nation. Because we think it wrong, we propose a course of policy that shall deal with it as a wrong. We deal with it as with any other wrong, insofar as we can prevent it growing any larger, and so deal with it that in the run of time there may be some promise of an end to it. Lincolns speech upset Southern slaveholders and poor whites, who valued the higher social status they enjoyed over slaves. However, with rapid European immigration taking place in the North, they had a declining influence over federal government. Opponents of slavery were also becoming more militant in their views. John Brown and five of his sons moved to Kansas Territory to help antislavery forces obtain control of this region. With the support of Gerrit Smith and other prominent Abolitionists, Brown moved to Virginia where he established a refuge for runaway slaves. In 1859 John Brown led a party of 21 men in a successful attack on the federal armory at Harpers Ferry. Brown hoped that his action would encourage slaves to join his rebellion, enabling him to form an emancipation army. Two days later the armory was stormed by Robert E. Lee and a company of marines. Brown and six men barricaded themselves in an engine-house, and continued to fight until Brown was seriously wounded and two of his sons had been killed. Brown was executed on 2nd December, 1859. Southern slaveholders were outraged when in 1860 the Republican Party nominated Abraham Lincoln as its presidential candidate in 1860. They looked to the Democratic Party to defend its interests but when it met in Charleston in April, 1860, it selected, Stephen A. Douglas. Unhappy with this decision, Southern delegates decided to hold another convention in Baltimore in June, where they selected John Breckenridge of Kentucky to fight the election. The situation was further complicated by the formation of the Constitutional Union Party and the nomination of John Bell of Tennessee as its presidential candidate. Abraham Lincoln won with 1,866,462 votes (18 free states) and beat Stephen A. Douglas (1,375,157 1 slave state), John Breckenridge(847,953 13 slave states) and John Bell (589,581 3 slave states). In January 1862 the Union Army began to push the Confederates southward. The following month Ulysses S. Grant took his army along the Tennessee River with a flotilla of gunboats and captured Fort Henry. This broke the communications of the extended Confederate line andJoseph E. Johnston decided to withdraw his main army to Nashville. He left 15,000 men to protect Fort Donelson on the Cumberland River but this was not enough and Grant had no difficulty taking this prize as well. With western Tennessee now secured, Abraham Lincoln was now able to set up a Union government in Nashville by appointing Andrew Johnson as its new governor. General George McClellan appointed Allan Pinkerton to employ his agents to spy on the Confederate Army. His reports exaggerated the size of the enemy and McClellan was unwilling to launch an attack until he had more soldiers available. Under pressure from Radical Republicans in Congress, Abraham Lincoln decided in January, 1862, to remove the conservative Simon Cameron as Secretary of War, and replace him with Edwin M. Stanton. Soon after this Lincoln ordered George McClellan to appear before a committee investigating the way the war was being fought. On 15th January, 1862, McClellan had to face the hostile questioning of Benjamin Wade and Zachariah Chandler. Wade asked McClellan why he was refusing to attack the Confederate Army. He replied that he had to prepare the proper routes of retreat. Chandler then said: General McClellan, if I understand you correctly, before you strike at the rebels you want to be sure of plenty of room so that you can run in case they strike back. Wade added Or in case you get scared. After McClellan left the room, Wade and Chandler came to the conclusion that McClellan was guilty of infernal, unmitigated cowardice. As a result of this meeting Abraham Lincoln decided he must find a way to force McClellan into action. On 31st January he issued General War Order Number One. This ordered McClellan to begin the offensive against the enemy before the 22nd February. Lincoln also insisted on being consulted about McClellans military plans. Lincoln disagreed with McClellans desire to attack Richmond from the east. Lincoln only gave in when the division commanders voted 8 to 4 in favour of McClellans strategy. However, Lincoln no longer had confidence in McClellan and removed him from supreme command of the Union Army. He also insisted that McClellan left 30,000 men behind to defendWashington. Albert S. Johnston and Pierre T. Beauregard reunited their Confederate armies near the Tennessee-Mississippi line. With 55,000 men they now outnumbered the forces led by Ulysses S. Grant. On 6th April the Confederate Army attacked Grants army at Shiloh. Taken by surprise, Grants army suffered heavy losses until the arrival of General Don Carlos Buell and reinforcements. During the fighting Albert S. Johnston was killed and the new commander, Pierre T. Beauregard, decided to retreat to Corinth, Mississippi.Shiloh was the greatest battle so far of the Civil War. The Union Army suffered 13,000 casualties and the Confederates lost 10,000. However, the Union Army, with the arrival of General Henry Halleck and his troops, were now the stronger and had little difficulty driving Beauregard out of Corinth. The difference in manpower between the two sides now becoming more noticeable. Whereas the Union consisted of 23 states and 22,000,000 people, the Confederacy had only 9,000,000 people (including 3,500,000 slaves). President Jefferson Davis now announced that the South could not win the war without conscription. In April the Confederate Congress passed the Conscription Act which drafted white men between eighteen and thirty-five for three years service. In May, 1862 General David Hunter began enlisting black soldiers in the occupied districts of South Carolina. He was ordered to disband the 1st South Carolina (African Descent) but eventually got approval from Congress for his action. Hunter also issued a statement that all slaves owned by Confederates in the area were free. Lincoln quickly ordered Hunter to retract his proclamation as he still feared that this action would force slave-owners in border states to join the Confederates. Radical Republicans were furious and John Andrew, the governor of Massachusetts, said that from the day our government turned its back on the proclamation of General Hunter, the blessing of God has been withdrawn from our arms. The actions of General David Hunter and Lincolns reaction stimulated a discussion on the recruitment of black soldiers in the Northern press. Wendell Phillips asked, How many times are we to save Kentucky and lose the war? This debate was also taking place in the Cabinet, as Edwin M. Stanton was now advocating the creation of black regiments in the Union Army. Horace Greeley, editor of the New York Tribune, one of the leaders of the anti-slavery movement, urged Lincoln to convert the war into a war on slavery. Lincoln replied that he would continue to place the Union ahead of all else. My paramount object in this struggle is to save the Union, and is not either to save or destroy slavery. If I could save the Union without freeing any slave, I would do it; and if I could save it by freeing all the slaves, I would do it; and if I could do it by freeing some and leaving others alone, I would also do that. The federal fleet under David Farragut captured the forts guarding the New Orleans in April, 1862. The following month General Benjamin F. Butler and his troops took control of the city. Butler was accused of treating Rebels very harshly and after ordering the execution of a man who had torn down the United States flag, he was nicknamed the beast. Alexander Walker, a pro-Confederate journalist who was one of those arrested, complained that the prisoners were: closely confined in portable houses and furnished with the most wretched and unwholesome condemned soldiers rations. He added that some were compelled to wear a ball and chain, which is never removed. President Jefferson Davis accused Benjamin F. Butler of inciting African slaves to insurrection by arming them for war. Davis issued a statement ordering that Butler no longer be considered or treated simply as a public enemy of the Confederate States of America, but as an outlaw and common enemy of mankind, and that, in the event of his capture, the officer in command of the captured force do cause him to be immediately executed by hanging. During the summer of 1862, George McClellan and the Army of the Potomac, took part in what became known as the Peninsular Campaign. The main objective was to capture Richmond, the base of the Confederate government. McClellan and his 115,000 troops encountered the Confederate Army at Williamsburg on 5th May. After a brief battle the Confederate forces retreated South. McClellan moved his troops into the Shenandoah Valley and along with John C. Fremont, Irvin McDowell and Nathaniel Banks surroundedThomas Stonewall Jackson and his 17,000 man army. First Jackson attacked John C. Fremont at Cross Keys before turning on Irvin McDowell at Port Republic. Jackson then rushed his troops east to join up with Joseph E. Johnston and the Confederate forces fighting McClellan in the suburbs the city. General Joseph E. Johnston with some 41,800 men counter-attacked McClellans slightly larger army at Fair Oaks. The Union Army lost 5,031 men and the Confederate Army 6,134. Johnson was badly wounded during the battle and General Robert E. Lee now took command of the Confederate forces. On 26th June, 1862, Major General John Pope, was appointed the commander of the new Army of Virginia. Pope soon made it clear he intended to develop an aggressive approach to the war. Soon after taking command he issued a proclamation to his troops: I have come to you from the West, where we have always seen the backs of our enemies; from an army whose business it has been to seek the adversary, and to beat him where he was found; whose policy has been attack and not defense. I presume that I have been called here to pursue the same system and to lead you against the enemy. It is my purpose to do so, and that speedily. Major General John Pope was instructed to move east to Blue Ridge Mountains towards Charlottesville. It was hoped that this move would help McClellan by drawing Robert E. Lee away from defending Richmond. Lees 80,000 troops were now faced with the prospect of fighting two large armies: McClellan (90,000) and Pope (50,000) Joined by Thomas Stonewall Jackson, James Longstreet, and George Pickett, the Confederate troops attacked George McClellan atGaines Mill. and on 27th June. After severe fighting the Union Army losses were 893 killed, 3,107 wounded and 2,836 missing. Whereas the Confederate Army had 8,751 killed and wounded. George McClellan wrote to Abraham Lincoln complaining that a lack of resources was making it impossible to defeat the Confederate forces. He also made it clear that he was unwilling to employ tactics that would result in heavy casualties. He claimed that ever poor fellow that is killed or wounded almost haunts me! On 1st July, 1862, McClellan and Lincoln met at Harrison Landing. McClellan once again insisted that the war should be waged against the Confederate Army and not slavery. In July, 1862, John Pope decided to try a capture Gordonsville, a railroad junction between Richmond and the Shenandoah Valley. Pope selected Nathaniel Banks to carry out the task. Robert E. Lee considered Gordonsville to be strategically very important and sent Thomas Stonewall Jackson to protect the town. On 9th August, Jackson defeated Banks at Cedar Run. George McClellan and army based at Harrisons Landing was told to join Popes campaign to take the railroad junction. When Lee heard this news he brought together all the troops he had available to Gordonsville. On 29th August, troops led by Thomas Stonewall Jackson and James Longstreet, attacked Popes Union Army at Manassas, close to where the first battle of Bull Run had been fought. Pope and his army was forced to retreat across Bull Run. The Confederate Army pursued the Army of Virginia until they reached Chantilly on 1st September. The Union Army lost 15,000 men at Bull Run. John Pope was blamed for the defeat. A staff officer later recalled that Pope was entirely deceived and outgeneralled. His own conceit and pride of opinion led him into these mistakes. Relieved of his command Pope was sent to Minnesota to deal with a Sioux uprising. The government was now seriously concerned about the poor performance of the Union Army and Salmon Chase (Secretary of the Treasury), Edwin M. Stanton (Secretary of War) and vice president Hannibal Hamlin, who were all strong opponents of slavery, led the campaign to have George McClellan sacked. Unwilling to do this, Abraham Lincoln decided to put McClellan in charge of all forces in theWashington area. George McClellan became a field commander again when the Confederate Army invaded Maryland in September. McClellan and Major General Ambrose Burnside attacked the armies of Robert E. Lee and Thomas Stonewall Jackson at Antietam on 17th September. Outnumbered, Lee and Jackson held out until Ambrose Hill and reinforcements arrived. It was the most costly day of the war with the Union Army having 2,108 killed, 9,549 wounded and 753 missing. Although far from an overwhelming victory, Lincoln realized the significance of Antietam and on 22nd September, 1862, he felt strong enough to issue his Emancipation Proclamation. Lincoln told the nation that from the 1st January, 1863, all slaves in states or parts of states, still in rebellion, would be freed. However, to keep the support of the conservatives in the government, this proclamation did not apply to border slave states: Delaware, Maryland, Kentucky and Missouri that had remained loyal. Lincoln now wanted George McClellan to go on the offensive against the Confederate Army. However, McClellan refused to move, complaining that he needed fresh horses. Radical Republicans now began to openly question McClellans loyalty. Could the commander be loyal who had opposed all previous forward movements, and only made this advance after the enemy had been evacuated wrote George W. Julian. Whereas William P. Fessenden came to the conclusion that McClellan was utterly unfit for his position. Frustrated by McClellan unwillingness to attack, Abraham Lincoln recalled him to to Washington with the words: My dear McClellan: If you dont want to use the Army I should like to borrow it for a while. On 7th November Lincoln removed McClellan from all commands and replaced him with Ambrose Burnside. Throughout the autumn of 1862 the Confederate Army continued to make progress in Kentucky. However, in September, General E. Kirby Smith was halted by Union troops led by General Don Carlos Buell in Covington. The following month General Braxton Bragg installed a Confederate government in Frankfort, Kentucky. However, this was short-lived and on 8th October, 1862, Bragg came under attack atPerryville (Chaplin Hills). During the battle Don Carlos Buell lost 4,211 men (845 killed, 2,851 wounded, and 515 missing) whereas Braxton Bragg lost 3,396 (510 killed, 2635 wounded and 251 missing). After the battle Bragg was forced to retreat back to Tennessee. General Ambrose Burnside had replaced George McClellan as commander of the Army of the Potomac on 7th November, 1862. After complaints that had been made by President Abraham Lincoln and the Secretary of War, Edwin M. Stanton, about the inaction of the Union Army, Burnside was determined to immediately launch an attack on the Confederate Army. With a force of 122,000, Ambrose Burnside, Joseph Hooker, Edwin Sumner, William Franklin attacked General Robert E. Lee and his army of 78,500, at Fredericksburg, Virginia, on 13th December. Sharpshooters based in the town initially delayed the Union Army from building a pontoon bridge across the Rappahnnock River. After clearing out the snipers the federal forces had the problem of mounting frontal assaults against troops commanded by James Longstreet. At the end of the day the Union Army had 12,700 men killed or wounded. The well protected Confederate Army suffered losses of 5,300. Ambrose Burnside wanted to renew the attack the following morning but was talked out of it by his commanders.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Web Databases Information Technology Essay

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Web Databases Information Technology Essay In this chapter, the results of initial investigations and analysis carried out in order to determine the requirements that which is needed of the system by its future users, is outlined. Firstly, we take a look at the initial background research and its findings in relation to the topic. Secondly, this chapter then goes on to discuss the methodology and development tools chosen to develop the application. Finally, the requirements specification of the system is outlined including the users requirements both functional and non-functional that have been the guide in the development of the system. 2.1 Background Research and Analysis As part of the initial stages of the project, investigations were carried out into the background of the topic area of web based applications since the application that has been developed is in itself a web-based database application as well as into the possible expectations and needs that users would require of such a system. Besides research in various pieces of literature and the internet, informal interviews were also carried out with users of similar known system, in order to get a better understanding of what users of such a system would come to expect as part of developing a requirements specification. 2.1.1 Background Research Findings Within the last decade, the rapid evolution of the internet has opened the door for organisations to take advantage of its benefits as a means to improve their operating efficiency, lower cost and ultimately give themselves a competitive advantage over their competitors. Web based applications are increasingly being used to handle tasks done by traditional applications such as data storage and transaction applications. With regard to data storage, ****} Being web-based, web applications have significant benefits over their traditional counterparts but with being web based also come many challenges for developers due mainly to their dynamic nature. This is due to rapidly changing technologies, frequent changes of user requirements, and dynamic aspects of the software technologies (Wu Offutt). In development of these applications, developers must ensure that they are very reliable, exhibit very high usability as well as security (Wu Offutt). In comparison to their traditional software counterparts, web applications must be developed to be available at all times; they must be maintainable given the rapid evolution of technology and most importantly, as they are based on the internet, they must be highly scalable to facilitate a global market and ready to grow in terms of servers, services, and customers very quickly. (Wu Offutt) Web-based database applications, being web apps themselves, are no exception. The web as a platform for database systems according to Connelly Begg (2005) can deliver innovative solutions for both inter- and intra- company business operations but also has its disadvantages. Advantages and Disadvantages of Web Databases according to Connelly Begg(2005) Advantages Disadvantages Simplicity: They are easy to develop, as HTML upon which they are based is easy to learn and use. Cross Platform support: Being web-based, they are not confined to any particular OS platform as they are accessible via web browsers. Standardization: With HTML being a standard on all browsers, HTML documents can be read from any machine in the world. Scalable Deployment Reliability: The internet is currently an unreliable and slow communication medium. At times servers can be down and a message may be delayed to be sent. Also at peak time when its is significantly slow. Security: Security is of great concern especially when the organisation makes its databases accessible on the web. Cost Limited Functionality of HTML: Some highly interactive database applications may not be converted easily to web based applications, while still providing the same user friendliness. 2.1.2. Problem Analysis Based on observations from the daily operations of the MIS department with regard to problem tracking, the basic operations can be summarized as shown in the rich picture below*******} 2.1.3. Interview Analysis During the investigation carried out, informal interviews were carried out with individuals who interact with similar systems to the one proposed. The questions used in these interviews can be found in Appendix A. Both individuals who were interviewed use web-based help desk applications that are installed on their respective companys network as an application accessible via web browsers. See figure 1 below for a screenshot of one these applications. FIGURE 1 Unicenter ServicePlus A web based help desk application used by one of the technicians interviewed. While these users describes these ********************} 2.2 Development Methodology Selection of the most appropriate methodology for development is important for the success of the project. This is due to the fact that using an inappropriate methodology can lead to issues such as cost overruns as a result of poor project management, project incompletion or the development of the wrong functionality to incorrect specifications. The methodology selected for the development of the system would be the Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC). This methodology was selected because it is one of the most stable methodologies with minimum risk. Also, the development approach to be used would be that of the Waterfall Life Cycle model which is ideal for inexperienced developers. (Weaver 2004) It was also selected due to its simplicity. The system was modelled with the use of ER Diagrams as well as Use Case diagrams. Use case diagrams were used as they are one of the best modelling tools that give an idea on how the system will operate in relation to how the users would interact with it. It also gives a clear idea of who the users of the system would be and the various views. 2.3 Development Tools Crucial to the development of the application, is the selection of the right programming tools. As such, since the application is a web-based database solution, it was necessary to select the software tool that could be best used as the foundation for the web-based database. The database tools considered were MySQL, MS Access and Oracle Database 10g Express. The table below shows a comparison between these three:- In the end, the database tool selected was Oracle Database 10g Express Edition which was chosen because of its ease to use and learn. Another plus to this application is its web readiness which makes it easy to host online, a crucial requirement for the application once completed. The downside******} 2.4 Requirement Specification The system was developed to support 3 levels of users, namely: Managers General Users Technicians Each Functional Requirements According to Weaver(2004), Functional requirements are those that define in some detail what the system needs to do. The functional requirements from the users point of view are as follows: The General user or Employee should be able to:- Register and Login using Username and Password Authentication Add a problem View Solved Problems Change and Update personal information The Technical Support Manager should be able to:- Login using Username and Password Authentication View and reply to Problems Assign Problems to Technicians Add, Update or Delete System Users View solve problems and add remarks Add or Update Supplier information View Technician details Review Resource History Reset User Passwords View jobs Done The Technician should be able to:- Register and Login using Username and Password Authentication Search and View Problems Assigned View Jobs done View Work Queue Add, Append, Delete Job History Record Work done Update personal information Change password Other Functional Requirements include:- Data This is the lifeline of the system and is therefore one of the most important aspects of the system. The data that the system would use are:- Resources (allocated Hardware and Software) and their unique information such as its serial number, date of purchase, supplier, license details (for software resources), current location (a room number) and the resource type (e.g. Hewlett Packard T540 Imaging Package, or Microsoft Windows XP Professional 2002 Service Pack 1). Problems reported by Employees Information recorded once a job is complete by a technician. Processing This includes the processing of problems reported by Employees, and the allocation of jobs to Technicians based on the problems by the Technical Support Manager. User Interface According to Weaver (2004), the user interface of a system should be: Simple Made for the User Consistent Non-Functional Requirements According to Weaver(2004), non-functional requirements describe the performance and constraints that the system should meet. The non-functional requirements are: Usability: The user interface must be consistent and user friendly while ensuring maximum efficiency while users navigate through the application. Availability: the system must be available at all times during working hours. Access: Users would be restricted according to their user type or level. Users will require a Username and Password to access the system. Capacity: the system must be capable of holding large volumes of data, specifically complaints as well as solutions.

Cause And Effects Of Smog Pollution Environmental Sciences Essay

Cause And Effects Of Smog Pollution Environmental Sciences Essay Smog pollution is a major problem that this planet is suffering from everyday. It has affected our homes, weather, and health. It is a very dangerous situation for us if we do not do anything about it. Smog pollution is caused by chemicals, automobiles, factories and corporations. The greatest thing we can do as a society is try to find a way to help prevent and stop smog pollution. If the people on this planet do not do anything to stop smog pollution we are going to have a BIG problem and it will hurt us in the future. We need a plan and we need to put a stop to smog pollution. The American Lung Association (ALA) has been trying to find ways to help stop and prevent smog pollution from hurting us and the environment. If we can just do our part and find a way to prevent this problem from getting any bigger, it will benefit us all. We all have heard of smog pollution, but do we really know what it is. Smog pollution has many causes that can be hazardous and dangerous to our health and well being. The term smog pollution is also known as photochemical smog. It is formed by the interaction with sunlight with different types of chemicals in earths atmosphere (Oblack). The main component of smog pollution or photochemical pollution is ozone. Ozone is in the earths stratosphere, which the shields the earth from dangerous UV radiation from the sun. The problem with ozone is when it touches down on the earths surface it can be very dangerous and can cause serious health problems for people on the planet (Oblack). The ground level ozone is made by the emissions of automobiles that put nitrogen oxide into the air, which is caused by the vehicles exhaust fumes (Oblack). The organic components from the fumes combined with the ozone and fume evaporation that combines with sunlight, causes smog pollution on the planet (Oblack). Many people try to find ways to help avoid smog in a more planet friendly environment, so some people use substitutes for their everyday use. There is just one problem with that, and that is the sun. Many people dont understand that sunlight and warm climates cause pollution. For example, places like California, Florida, and Arizona and even North America are some of the most polluted places in the country (Oblack). Another problem that causes an increase in smog pollution is the increased usage of fossil fuels for industrial, heating, and of course transportation purposes (All that smog). Also, cutting down, burning trees, and disposing of agricultural and organic waste can also lead to emissions of smog pollution and harmful problems for the planet (All that Smog). Sunlight mixed with different types of dangerous chemicals (se condary pollution) also makes it difficult to stop smog pollution from occurring on the surface of the planet (All that Smog), which creates another big problem. Climate is a major factor for the cause of smog pollution. Many places in the world can try to be more environmental friendly to help save our planet. Some people ride bicycles instead of driving cars. Other people try to reduce their use of using fire to warm themselves. The only problem that these people cannot get away from is something that they cannot control, and that is the sun. California is ranked in the top 10 most polluted areas in the United States. Ozone pollution that is caused by the sun has a major affect on this planet. Smog and air pollution is having a serious impact on the environment and can condemn all ecosystems (seirraclub). The reason why the sun causes so many problems is because the ozone layer that is supposed to protect planet earth is practically destroyed. Without the protection, the sun is able to shine radiation onto the planet and is the main reason for many health issues that people go through every day. Issues like skin cancer, radiation poisoning, and sun burn are having fatal affects on people. This type of pollution not only harms humans, but it can also harm wild life and the environment. Smog can harm different plants, which can lead to damaging consequences. Because the plants are damaged, it makes it hard for plants to make and save food for themselves in their living environment (seirraclub). In addition, the sun and smog can destroy leaves and plants it would make many of the plants vulnerable to getting diseases. And, they cannot defend themselves from different types of bugs and insects that can cause a huge decrease in plant life (seirraclub). Smog pollution is a yearly problem for places like Texas, Georgia, Florida, and many other southern and sunny parts of the world, but there is also a big increase in smog pollution in the summer (seirraclub). This is caused by strong sunlight that burns the earths surface. However, the one thing that is helping smog pollution is all of the problems that are on this planet. A ll of the power plants, automobile emissions, industrial, and chemical vapors are other causes of pollution (seirraclub). Climate changes are part of the problem as well. Within the months of June, July, and August, it makes it harder to try and control the smog pollution, due to the sun. This planet has gone through billions of years of evolution. It survived dinosaurs, the ice age, and the black plague, but because of smog pollution this planet might not be able to survive this new attack. A major problem smog pollution is causing is health concerns for the public. Smog pollution is affecting human health because it is making it harder to breathe the smog induced air. Because of this and sun radiation, this is resulting in many fatalities, including skin and lung cancer. Peoples lungs and hearts can be dangerously affected by smog and air pollution (Oblack). Many people are still skeptical about smog pollution, but one thing that is known is long term exposure can result in dangerous and even fatal heath affects to people (Oblack). Some of the long term affects caused by exposure to smog pollution are problems breathing, coughing, wheezing, pneumonia, bronchitis, inflammation of the pulmonarys, lung cancer, heart problems, asthma like symptoms, pre mature aging of lungs, and last, but not least, death (Oblack). Smog pollution, even in small doses, can be very dangerous and harmful to all people. The American Lung Association estimated that 48 percent of people in the w orld live with very high levels of smog (seirraclub). Even though exposure to smog is dangerous, there are three types of people who can be severely damaged from smog, which include children, the elderly, and people with respiratory problems (seirraclub). The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has created the Air Quality Index which lets you check the air density and pollution level around your areas (seirraclub). Furthermore, The Department of Motor vehicles have been trying to develop a plan to reduce vehicle emission and try to improve on air quality for the planet and help save the planet (Malone). The DMV has also been trying to encourage the residents of the United States to help stop smog. They are trying to do their part by asking people to report anyone who has visible exhaust coming out of their automobiles (Malone). If we can all do our fair share and help support this plan we can be able to help stop smog pollution. In all, smog pollution is a major concern for our environment and this planet. If we do not find a way to try and stop smog pollution, we will have many more health problems. Fortunately, there are people who are trying to find ways to stop smog pollution. Many people who are trying to create plans that can help bring this planet back to a healthier state. In 1996, smoking vehicle program was passed that stated that anyone who sees smoking exhaust coming from cars, trucks, or any other motor vehicles were to voluntarily report it to the authorities as a way of preventing polluted air (Malone). It is also there to help educate people about smog pollution and what they can do to help stop it (Malone). The American Lung Association (ALA) also came up with certain help to bring attention to the issue of smog pollution. They advised people to pay more attention to the Air Quality Index (AQI) around their area. They tried to educate people about Ozone action days and how not to ignore them . Finally, ALA attempted to help people get familiar with how smog adversely affects their health (Oblack). The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) takes it upon them to check evidence every five years to see whether or not the situation of smog pollution has changed for better or worse (seirraclub). It is very simple to stop smog pollution. We can all use our cars, trucks, and motorcycles, sparingly. We all must try to do our fair share and we must be able to bring awareness to how dangerous the sun can really be. We need to fight back against smog. If we do not do anything about it, this planet and everything on it will suffer. Group against Smog and Pollution (GASP) is a non-profit citizens group in Southwestern Pennsylvania working for a healthy, sustainable environment. GASP was founded in 1969, with a group of volunteers who were worried about air quality issues here in Pennsylvania. GASP has been a diligent watchdog, educator, litigator, and policy-maker on many environment al issues, with a focus on air quality in the Pittsburgh region. Their objective is to teach and enlighten the public about pollution and its remedies. Their Mission Statement is will act to obtain for the residents of Western Pennsylvania clean air, water, and land in order to create a healthy, sustainable environment and quality of life to which we are entitled (Groups against Smog and Pollution.) Obviously GASP is doing their part, but what are we doing as individuals to help?

guide :: essays research papers fc

A Student Guide to Writing a History Paper The first thing that you may ask is why write papers at all? Writing is an invaluable part of the educational process, because writing forces you to take your knowledge of a subject, and organize it all into a coherent and concise presentation. Furthermore, it forces you to dig deeper and uncover interesting information about a person or event that might otherwise be mentioned during instructional time. There is another practical reason why you should write well. After you graduate, many of those with whom you will have contact in your professional life will judge you and your work based upon your writing. Whatever career path you choose, you will have to write letters, reports, speeches, proposals, etc., that others will read before they ever hear the sound of your voice. These individuals will develop their first and often lasting impression of you based on your writing skills. Writing is a skill and like any skill is fine-tuned through practice. When you write history papers, use this as a guide and it will improve your final product. ________________________________________________________________________ Thesis Statement Before you start writing your paper, develop a carefully constructed thesis. Every paper must have a thesis. Your thesis should be stated clearly in the introduction of the paper so the reader is not left to wonder just what argument you are making. If you cannot say what you want in one or two sentences, then your thesis is probably to broad. The thesis statement does not have to be in the first sentence of your paper (although it can be) but it should appear somewhere on the first page. In the paragraph that contains your thesis, you should also mention the sort of evidence that you are going to use to offer support for the body of your paper, your argument, and how your topic fits into a broader context of history. Body of the Paper Once you have a clear introduction for your paper, you must elaborate on the argument that you are pursuing. Discuss relevant facts, arguments, and counter-arguments and explain why you think your thesis is correct. Early in the paper you should place your topic in its proper historical context. Go back into the history of your topic only so far as that background is relevant to your argument. Also, do not spend too much time on other people's arguments.

The Spanish American War :: American America History

The Spanish American War Hi I'm doing my report on the Spanish American War. In the following pages I will be giving information on how and why the war started, major battles, and the results of the war. I will also include stories from people on the battleship Maine. Introduction The Spanish American War marked the emergence of the United States of America as a world power. The war which lasted only 10 weeks between April and August of 1898 took place over the liberation of Cuba. In the course of the war the U.S. won Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Philippine Islands. A large aspect to the begining of the war was the explosion and sinking of the Maine on February 15 1898 at 9:30 PM in Havana Harbor. 260 American naval personnel where killed or wounded. The USS Maine was the second "second class" battle ship constructed for the U.S. Navy. It took almost nine years to complete three year took waiting for armor. The USS Maine was at the time the largest ship to be built in a U.S. Navy yard. The USS Maine arrived in the Havana harbor in Cuba on Jan. 24 of 1898. The USS Manie was sent to Cuba in response to a small protest by Spanish officers. The ship was under the command of Captian Charles Sigsbee. When the Manie sank there where 2 separate explosions ammunition continuted to explode for hours after the blast. Some people say that the Maine was torpedoed or blown up with under water explosives by the Spanish Navy, others say that the 896 ton capacity coal bunker exploded but most people at the time said that the ship was torpedoed and blamed Spain for the sinking of the ship. After the disaster an official court of inquiry was held to determine the cause of the blast. The Navy said that the ship was sunk by a water mine, but stated that it could not fix responsibility on any single person or persons. Declaration of war At the time of the sinking of the Maine U.S. President William Mckinley was in office. Pres. Mckinley had hoped to avoid going to war with Spain but along with thousands of other Americans was swept up in the feeling to support war. In 1898 Pres. mckinley asked to declare war on Spain. The war begins At the begining of the war there were almost 200,000 Spanish troops located in Cuba.

The Roman Family: Center of Roman Society :: Ancient Rome Roman History

The Roman Family: Center of Roman Society The Roman family after the advent of Christianity has been widely discussed in Roman History. Different historians have looked at the topic in different ways. There are two articles at hand, which deal with this very topic. Brent Shaw, The family in Late Antiquity: The Experience of Augustine and Douglas O'Roark, Parenthood in Late Antiquity. Both historians are looking at the family in late antiquity, after the time that Christianity was introduced to the Roman society. Through an analysis of the two essays and references to the classical period it can be seen that: The Roman family has always been an important institution in their society, it's composition, roles and the functions changed little after the advent of Christianity. The Essays Each of the historians has a solid central argument, and their essays are laid out well. Shaw seeks to show the structure and the functions of the Roman family in late antiquity. He also seeks to clear up misconceptions of the Roman family. O'Roark's argument seeks to show the closeness of the parents and children in the Roman family. The important thing to realize is that both of these essays are looking at the Roman family in the same period, late antiquity, after the advent of Christianity. Also important to note is both of these essays to not specifically talk about the impact of Christianity on the family. The essays can be used to reference against each other and against the Roman family in the Classical period. Information on the Classical period is given in G. Nathan's article: Two Traditions. With the three essays one can come to a good conclusion about the impact of Christianity on the Roman family. In interest of paper length the essays have been narrowed down to include only central topics. First looking at similarities, then differences. Children This is the first main aspect of the family that both historians look at. The first point Shaw brings up is that main purpose of childbearing. This was for the wife to produce a heir for the husband . The father organized the whole house around this, in preparation a son to take everything over when he died . O'Roark states that a major factor in having children was to love and to care for them . He however cannot deny that before this the realization is that the father must have children to pass everything on to .

Barclays: Matt Barrett’s Journey †Winning Hearts and Minds Essay

The fact that Barclays is one of the four most dominant retail and commercial banks in the U.K. says a lot about its reputation. This company has faced many challenges between the time periods of 1980-2000. Matt Barrett has several great ideas to turn this company around, and the factors that should be considered are essential to the success of his strategy. Social/Demographic The Company initiates good customer relationship skills. They have built personal relationships with one out of five personal customers, and have direct relationships with 25% of the businesses in the U.K. On the downside, the company’s cost base is much higher than its competitors. The plan is to change the core infrastructure of the company in order to build a stronger customer base. Becoming more competitive and offering value to its core products will give Barclays the competitive edge it needs to help increase profit and attract new clients. Technological Barrett and his Executive Committee (ExCo) team have plans to restructure the company by shifting its culture. In order to shift the culture, the mind-set of the employees has to change. Barrett promoted younger talent to join his ExCo team to give the company fresh innovative ideas. These new ideas will give solutions to replace the incompetence of traditional strategies that are no longer useful. The company also did an analysis on the industry and company data to figure out which segments were making money, and which ones weren’t. A value-based management approach gives the ExCo team an opportunity to take on challenges and risks, and make strategic decision about what segments to add, and what to take away. Economic Considering that Barclays is a reputable company, and the fact that an estimated 20% of its profits are generated outside of the U.K; it would be ideal for the company to expand to gain exposure. The company is the ninth largest bank in Europe, and already has a customer base in the country. Developing a second home market in continental Europe would allow the company to create a larger customer base, therefore increasing profit. Environmental/Geographic Barclays is located in a stable economy with a strong domestic franchise. The only crutch is that they need a strategy to compete with new entrants. The U.K. accounts for 80% of the company’s profit, so plans to restructure core products will require a dynamic strategic plan. Using diverse tactics to differentiate product/customer markets will help aid in maximizing the economic value of the company; and improving these products by offering value to clients will aid in creating a stronger customer base. Political/Legal/Governmental Barclays is the first foreign bank to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission in Washington D.C. This is an advantage to the company on a global scale because banking laws are enforced according to SEC regulations. On the downside, the company may be overlooked by firms who are looking to establish offshore accounts in order to bypass these regulations.