History

The familiar phrase “All men are created equal,” has a complex history.   On the one hand, equality appears to be a good thing which is why it has been the goal of individuals and social movements at different points in the history of Western society.  On the other hand, not all members of a given society would agree on what equality means in practice, or which people have a right to make a claim for equality, or whether equality has been achieved.  One could argue, therefore, that while equality is an important concept in the history of Western society, it has been and remains contested.  Discuss at least two specific historical examples as well as one issue of contemporary significance that illustrate these debates and struggles over the meaning and practice of equality.   A considered response will require about a page of printer text.