| Papers [1-15] of 25 :: [Page 1 of 2] | | Go to page : 1 2 —> | Search results on "STATE SIEGE": |
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"State of Siege", 2007.
An examination of "State of Siege," a 1972 film by Costa-Gavras.
1,570 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
The paper examines the film "State of Siege" about the interrogation and assassination of a CIA case officer by unnamed South American urban revolutionaries. The paper reveals that its story is based on real-life events in Uruguay when a U.S. Agency for International Development (AID) official, Dan Mitrione, was kidnapped by the Tupamoros (a left-wing urban guerrilla group) and eventually executed. This paper offers a summary of the movie and discusses how far it has depicted the real life events by researching who the Tupamoros and Dan Mitrione really were. The paper notes that the film is criticized for being biased against the Americans, but concludes that it is largely an accurate portrayal of events that took place in Uruguay in 1970.
Outline:
Summary of the Film
American Criticism of the Film
The Tupamaros
Who was Dan Mitrione?
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Gavras then uses his familiar technique of flashbacks, rapid cross-cutting from one location to another and aggressive background music (also used in Gavras' other notable films, "Z" and "The Confession") to create chilling suspense and to move the film forward at a relentless pace. We are shown a flashbacks of the kidnapping of Santore by the young guerillas; interspersed with scenes of the local (read Uruguay) Parliament arguing over the existence of a paralegal police death squad, back to the rebels' interrogation of Santore, evidence of America's interference in South American politics and so on and so forth until the film ends with a scene of another American AID official being received at the airport, watched by a defiant face (a member of the Tupamoros, perhaps?)--signifying the continuance of the frustrating cycle despite what has just taken place."
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The Siege of Masada, 2005.
This essay examines the reliability of Josephus' account of the siege of Masada.
2,978 words (approx. 11.9 pages), 12 sources, MLA, $ 87.95
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Abstract
This paper attempts to present an unbiased evaluation of the reliability of Josephus account of the siege of Masada and contends that Josephus account is certainly not entirely false; however the account of the suicide itself is also shown to be a likely alteration of events with a grain of truth.
From the Paper
"Furthermore, the mass-suicide may be seen as one such 'exaggeration' because it was not uncommon for accounts in ancient literature to end in such a manner. Cohen also notes that the ending of a story with mass suicide was evident among many prominent writers. Among those whom he lists is Livy, who has already been shown to embellish his writings in a similar manner to Josephus. In one story, Livy describes how P. Decius Mus devoted himself to the gods of the underworld in return for a Roman victory, and hurled himself into the midst of the enemy battle line as a sacrifice . It is most likely that the devotio of Decius Mus is legendary, and is confused with the action of his son at Sentinum in 295 B.C., who is also reputed to have acted similarly . This is but one of many instances where classical writers conclude a story with suicide. As a result of this contextual examination, it becomes clear that Josephus' story of the mass-suicide has been moulded, if not totally created, as a result of literary traditions of the ancient world."
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The Siege of Antioch in Film, 2005.
A movie proposal for a film about the Siege of Antioch.
675 words (approx. 2.7 pages), 2 sources, $ 26.95
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Abstract
"In this paper, a film proposal is presented about the Crusades. It looks at how the siege of Antioch began in 1097 and lasted for two years and how the city had some of the most infamous battle scenes and stratagems, which would outshine any of the latter battles or conquests that would follow. "
From the Paper
"During the First Crusades Bohemond of Tarentum was a pivotal and important figure in gaining access to the "Holy Land" during the early part of the 12th century. Conceptualized by Pope Urban II in 1095, the Crusades become an important part of western historical warfare (Stearns 140), which brought Bohemond and his Christian compatriots to take away Jerusalem from the Muslims in the name of Christ. The "Siege of Antioch" was a critical, violent, and important battle, which represents the apogee of success for the Crusaders in taking the Levant from the Arabs. After Pope Urban had sent off Bohemond and the other princes from various regents in France and Germany, there was great hardship that awaited them. Not only did they have to fight the Arabs, but they also had to deal with Alexius I, the emperor of the Byzantine Empire."
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The Siege at Khartoum, 2005.
This paper describes in detail the 1885 siege at Khartoum, Egyptian Sudan, of the troops of British Major-General Charles Gordon by the insurgent Sudanese rebels lead by Mohammed Ahmed, the Mahdi.
3,200 words (approx. 12.8 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 92.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that British Major-General Charles Gordon arrived in Khartoum in 1884 with instructions to evacuate the garrison and to attempt to organize an independent government to take over. The author points out that, before he could proceed to implement his plans, the city was besieged by Mohammed Ahmed, the Mahdi; a relief column was fatally delayed by the British government and Gordon was killed. The paper concludes that, when Gordon's journals were published, he became a hero, eventually bringing down the Gladstone government.
From the Paper
"Gordon continued to underestimate the Mahdi's strength, and when an old friend of Gordon's, now a captive, sent word that the Mahdi had some 40,000 riflemen ready to attack, Gordon wouldn't believe it. One of Gordon's steamers had foundered on the river and the British officers on board killed. The Mahdi delighted in sending to Gordon one of his captured letters. He taunted Gordon for expecting a relief column. He now knew that there was no relief column. And, later, when a steamer did arrive in Khartoum, there were neither troops nor supplies on board. As the siege wore on, and horses had to be slaughtered for food, Gordon tried to keep up a brave front, telling the townspeople that a relief column was on the way, and would soon arrive. Out of ammunition and food, Omdurman fell to the Mahdi's troops. The Mahdi sent one last offer to Gordon, telling him that the Brisih offered to ransom him alone for 20,000 pounds Sterling. He told Gordon he would return him to the British without asking for a single farthing."
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Nation, State, Citizenship, 2005.
An analysis of contemporary issues relating to citizenship in modern democratic societies.
1,800 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 11 sources, $ 71.95
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Abstract
This paper examines modern democratic societies, and discusses how liberal democratic principles are at odds with the model of citizenship held by modern nation-states. The paper shows that conflicts and disputes have arisen because universalistic claims of liberalism and democracy appear to be incompatible with the exclusionary, boundary-staking functions of citizenship laws and policies of the contemporary nation-states. Subsequently, nation-states are under siege from several directions as they struggle to reconcile universal principles of liberalism and democracy with modern political realities.
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Stalingrad, 2007.
A review of the validity of "Stalingrad: The Fateful Siege: 1942-1943," written by Antony Beevor.
1,739 words (approx. 7.0 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 56.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews the events that occurred in Stalingrad according to "Stalingrad: The Fateful Siege: 1942-1943," written by Antony Beevor. The paper reviews the style and historical content of Beevor's book and analyzes the validity of Beevor's opinions as expressed in the work. The paper suggests that the way that Beevor relates his knowledge and understanding is where he falls short, however that it is still a worth-while read.
From the Paper
"This would be fine, if it was not for the fact that Beevor does seek merely to relay the facts but to depict the distance and mistakes of two egotistical and often maniacal dictators. The influence of the Soviet people on the outcome of the war, and the undying, unwavering, refuse to surrender Red Army soldier is one area that Beevor does accurately and effectively depict his point. It is therefore without a doubt that Beevor understands this conflict to the fullest. There are many interesting anecdotes, stories, and effective primary research. It is in the way that Beevor relates his knowledge and understanding where he falls short, and while this detracts from the readability and emotional impact of Stalingrad, it does not completely ruin the effectiveness of the comprehensive and in depth look at one of the most significant battles of the 20th century."
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Warfare in the American Civil War, 2004.
Discusses the Siege of Petersburg and its effect on the warfare of the Civil War.
1,300 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
The conduct of warfare underwent many dramatic changes over the course of the Civil War, which lasted from 1861-1865. In the early years, the battlefield was dynamic, and the armies maneuvered and engaged at will; many units, especially Confederate, fielding smooth-bore muskets and cannon. As these weapons were improved with rifling, their effective killing distance became greater. This paper examines how the most dramatic change in the way warfare was conducted came during the Battle of Petersburg (1864-65). The paper shows how this siege was militarily significant in that it began the trend of the trench warfare that changed the way warfare was conducted during World War I.
From the Paper
"This tactic became outdated with the development of improved firearm technology in the mid-19th century. When the American Civil War began in 1861, it was fought with similar weapons and tactics that had been used for many centuries. By the time the war ended in 1865, it was seen as a foreshadowing of World War I?complete with trenches, machine guns, field fortifications, and massive casualties. The Battle of Petersburg near the end of the war with its trenches and static formations, changed the strategies of warfare, as it was radically different that early battles such as the First Battle of Bull Run where maneuver was still possible, and famous charges such as Pickett's Charge at the Battle of Gettysburg, demonstrated the military uselessness of a direct assault on an opposing line."
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Petersburg and the Civil War, 2004.
An examination of the impact of the Siege of Petersburg on the American Civil War.
857 words (approx. 3.4 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 30.95
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Abstract
A brief look at the way in which the Siege of Petersburg was a turning point for the American Civil War. It provides some basic details about the battle, as well as the movements and considerations of the military leaders.
From the Paper
"The Siege of Petersburg was a long, bloody and terrible ordeal for those involved on the front lines, and it was also a time of terror for the Southerners who lay in the path of destruction caused by Sherman and the Union troops. It was a skillful and somewhat lucky attack on the part of the Union, which was able to keep Lee distracted long enough to get him trapped. Petersburg was a key location because of the railroad lines that ran through it, its proximity to large rivers, and of course because it was so close to the Confederate capitol. Without their brilliant leader, the Confederate troops were unable to organize and properly complete missions, and their morale was crushed by the Union?s successes. This was truly a turning point of the war that led quite directly to Lee?s surrender and the Union victory."
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Crusades, 1992.
A look at the military history including strategy, manpower, Islamic-European cross influences, cavalry, infantry, sieges and fortresses.
2,025 words (approx. 8.1 pages), 4 sources, $ 71.95
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From the Paper
"The purpose of this research is to examine the military history of the Crusades. The plan of the research will be to set forth the context of Middle Ages military convention at the time of the Crusades, and then to discuss how the Crusades were initially fought militarily, how military strategy and practice changed over the course of the many crusades and why, and the influences on military practice that occurred because of the encounter between Islamic military and wider culture on one hand, and European warfare and weaponry on the other.
By the time of the Middle Ages, the principal military fact about Europe appears to have been that indigenous European forces deriving from the Imperial Roman infantry had for various reasons been overwhelmed by the barbarian innovation and advantage of armed cavalry. This innovation was gradually adopted in Europe..."
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Farms in the City, 2006.
This paper argues in favor of a type of sustainable agriculture as presented in Jac Smit's article "Farm the City".
1,275 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that sustainability refers to a practice of farming that depends primarily or completely on practices, such as proper planting and rotation of the land without applying materials trucked in from afar to remediate what should never have been damaged in the first place. The author points out that Smit believed that urban food security in the relatively near future could rest partly on locally grown and sold food, with production based on renewable local resources, such as composting in the backyard rather than on fossil fuels. The paper argues that sustainable urban agriculture may become a national defense because even under siege for a very long time, residents of cities would not starve to death.
Table of Contents
"Traditional" Agriculture
"Sustainable" Agriculture
What's Best for the Future?
From the Paper
"Tilman et. al. suggest that sustainable agriculture must be accompanied by advances in energy use, transportation and so on. In short, they do not so much lobby for a scaled-down, friendly, homegrown sort of urban farming Smit outlined; rather, they seem to suggest that more attention should be paid to improving 'big ag.' Still, what they desire for big ag is not entirely without sustainability merit. They suggest multiple cropping systems with crop rotation and intercropping, with two crops grown side by side and simultaneously. That, they note, may improve pest control and water and nutrient efficiency."
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The Beast of New Orleans, 2002.
An in-depth examination of the reputation and military career of Union Major General Benjamin F. Butler, occupying commader of New Orleans after the Civil War.
5,753 words (approx. 23.0 pages), 20 sources, APA, $ 138.95
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Abstract
General Butler was the occupying commander of New Orleans from May 1, 1862 to December 1862-seven months. The paper describes how Butler was vilified in New Orleans, the Confederate States and in some foreign countries, while being honored as a civil war hero, political mediator between the races and brilliant administrator in the North. The paper examines how one man, in just seven months, could create such an enduring negative legacy among the people of New Orleans. It examines his convergence of social, economic, culture and personality traits which resulted in the creation of Benjamin Franklin Butler, ?The Beast of New Orleans.? The paper shows that Butler?s behavior throughout the Civil War, particularly during his occupation of New Orleans, Louisiana, was a direct affront to the beliefs of the Southern mentality. His political haranguing, traitorous behavior and harsh treatment of southerners are legendary.
Table of Contents
Louisiana?s Background--Emphasis on New Orleans
Benjamin F. Butler?s Background
Outbreak of the Civil War
The Siege of New Orleans
The Occupation of New Orleans
Butler the Extremist
New Orleans Women?s Resistance Movement
The Women's Order
Official Southern Reaction to the Women's Order
Butler the Opportunist
President Jefferson Davis' Proclamation
Lasting Effects of Butler?s Occupation Butler?s Continued Attack of the People of New Orleans after the Civil War
Effect on the People of New Orleans Before and After the Civil War
From the Paper
"Order No. 28 deserves to be explained in layman?s terms. Butler is in effect stating that if the women of New Orleans did not cease and desist with their resistance agenda they would be treated as prostitutes and dealt with accordingly. Meaning, ?any woman who didn't want to be raped by Yankee soldiers, now kept her silence on the streets.?
To truly understand the impact of this Order it is important to realize the social climate in which it was given. The world at large was still a chivalric place. Men were brought up to defend the honor of a woman?s virtue. The people of the southern United States took this practice with the utmost seriousness. With war raging on their home soil, the defense of the women took on a new importance.
Butler was saying that the women who were trying to thwart the Union occupation were no better than a common trollop was. This riled up the fervor of the Confederate men, and brought outrage from abroad as well. ?The Beast? was born."
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Medieval Weapons, 2002.
A discussion of medieval weaponry during the period of approximately 480-1487 A.D.
1,876 words (approx. 7.5 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 60.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at the most common types of weapons used in combat by medieval fighters from 480-1487 A.D. It evaluates what they were made of, their uses, how deadly they were in combat as well as different tactics used in battle at the time. Medieval weapons served two important purposes. Some of them, such as armor and shields, existed to protect the wearer, others existed solely to do bodily harm and were extremely deadly. Razor sharp swords could slice a man in halfor sever a limb whereas arrows could kill, mutilate or set wooden buildings and thatched roofs on fire in an instant. Lances could kill a man, or remove him from his horse for the foot soldiers to deal with. Siege weapons could lay utter waste to a town ? decimating the people within. Medieval weapons were created to cause havoc and they did. They were early weapons of destruction and they served their purpose well.
From the Paper
"The hauberk was central to the armour a knight wore. It was usually knee length, and slit on the front and back to allow the rider to sit on a horse. It would be worn over a padded undergarment. This mailshirt weighed about 25 pounds. There was also a hood made of similar material worn underneath the mail helmet. Later in the twelfth century, a type of mail mitten was developed to protect the hands, and a long "surcoat" or "coat armour" was added over the mailshirt for additional protection, especially from the hot sun. Chausses, or mail leggings were also added, and developments in the thirteenth century led to the "great helm" a large helmet with a flat top protecting the head and some of the neck."
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Political Lobbying and the European Union, 2007.
This paper uses the case of the "No Software Patents" lobbying alliance in the European Union (EU) to investigate the theory and practice of political lobbying.
8,210 words (approx. 32.8 pages), 41 sources, APA, $ 175.95
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Abstract
This paper relates that an updated version of "lobbying" is all forms of interactions designed to advocate particular ideas, persuade decision-makers to adopt certain perspectives and ultimately to influence policy through the exchange of information, alliance building, formal and informal contact and planned and unplanned relationships. The author points out that, of the European Union (EU)countries, software patents are really of interest only to Ireland; therefore, the amount of attention given by the players in the European Parliament must have been influenced by the agents of lobbying and their relationship to other actors as well as the whole institutional framework for the purpose of lobbying. The paper stresses that this case study shows that gaining direct access to the EU institutions is one of the major conditions for exerting influence on the policy making process.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Developments in the Discipline
Theories, Assumptions and Evidence
EU Institutions under Lobbyist Siege
The Case Study
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The Council of Ministers is both executive and legislature. The interests of the different Member States meet in the Council and are at the basis of intensive bargaining activities among them.The Council is responsible for the implementation of EU legislation and policy decisions together with the Commission. The Council is increasingly sharing its legislative powers with the European Parliament. It is the Council's task to amend and decide on legislation by reaching a decision that is acceptable to all or at least a majority.
"If groups gain access to the Council, they have to present information that can facilitate the bargaining process among the Member States in terms of Bouwen's (2002) domestic encompassing index (DEI). The influence of national interests prevails in the Council and it is therefore crucial for the Member States to identify their national or domestic interest. While keeping in mind common goals, the representatives of member states focus on promoting their national interests. The Member States of the Council therefore have very strong demand for information about the DEI. Thus the access to DEI supplies the MSs information about the needs and interests on the domestic front and thereby allows them to identify their national interest."
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The Alamo and America's Image of Itself, 2008.
A comparison of the events that occurred at the Alamo with their portrayal in the movies named, "The Alamo" that were subsequently made.
761 words (approx. 3.0 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 27.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses America's image of itself over the siege and slaughter at the Alamo, as portrayed in the movies named, "The Alamo." The paper compares the historical accounts of the events that occurred at the Alamo with the way that these events were portrayed in the movies. It also looks at the role that Davy Crockett played in the defense.
From the Paper
"Finally, there is a lesson that America should learn from the Alamo. Desperate courage can carry men to feats far beyond what could reasonably be expected of them. This is not a trait exclusive to Americans. The defenders at the Alamo were hopelessly outnumbered, but fought with the savagery of men committed to their struggle. Although the Mexican army prevailed, the losses ran to some 1,600 men dead, including many of the finest soldiers. Although able to recruit some replacements during the campaign, the Mexican army was losing men, materials, and morale even as it managed its victories as it marched towards San Jacinto. In 2007 in Iraq, the United States faces a group of men fighting for their land, against a vastly technologically superior force of invaders. With their technology and firepower, the Americans can win every battle. Should we, like Santa Anna, feel entirely confident of final victory?"
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"McDonald's in Hong Kong", 2008.
A critical analysis of "McDonald's in Hong Kong" by James L. Watson.
752 words (approx. 3.0 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 26.95
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Abstract
The paper examines "McDonald's in Hong Kong" where James L. Watson explores whether Hong Kong's acceptance of McDonald's is evidence that Hong Kong's culture is under siege by the global culture. The paper looks at Watson's belief that the citizens of Hong Kong are not passive victims of McDonaldization but are actively exporting their own contributions to global culture. The paper is of the opinion that this work is worth reading for its insights into Hong Kong culture, but asserts that its conclusions do not seem to be warranted by the evidence presented.
From the Paper
"Watson concedes that McDonald's has enjoyed "roaring success" in Hong Kong, despite the fact that it offers traditional McDonald fare in a city where the residents have long enjoyed very different staple foods (Watson 125). However, he contends that the people have managed to do this without becoming any "less 'Chinese' than their grandfather" (Watson 125). (And presumably they are also just as Chinese as their grandmothers.) Indeed, he asserts that the question itself needs to be reframed in a way that takes cognisance of consumers' views. Using eye witness accounts of evolutions that McDonald's has undergone since it opened in Hong Kong in 1975, Watson shows how the locals have subtly changed the way that McDonald's is run, in such a way as to be more consistent with the way they perceive the world."
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