Thursday, August 9, 2012

1848 4th of July: "...more by the spirit called ardent than by a patriotic spirit."


THE 4TH OF JULY
Source: The Polynesian. Honolulu: July 8, 1848, page 30.

The 4th of July was pretty generally observed by the native born Americans. Some we regret to say were prompted to festivities more by the spirit called ardent than by a patriotic spirit. Too many display their love of liberty by making themselves slaves to the debasing passion for strong drink. No serious disturbance occurred although we understand several waxing valiant under the influence of too many potations, received as trophies black eyes and bloody noses. One of an ardent temperament was planned by his comrades in a well for the purpose of cooling his excited imagination. The scenes presented were many of the ludicrous, but painful. When will mankind learn to use the blessings of life without abusing them, and to participate in a rational manner in the amusement of life?

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