The three essential elements that I chose for the final project include medical innovations and advancements concerning health issues. I will primarily focus on the polio vaccine, the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and the technological innovation and improvement of the internet. I selected these elements because each has been a significant milestone in history that has had a tremendous influence on shaping my life and will likely continue to impact me.
My first element is the medical innovation and advancement of the polio vaccine. The polio virus was one of the most feared and extensively studied diseases of the 20th century, predominantly affecting children.
HIST 2006 Week 5 FINAL PROJECT: TOP 3 ELEMENTS 2
Epidemics occurred in the United States during the 1940s and 1950s, with the worst outbreak in 1952 infecting approximately 60,000 children. Severe cases of polio could result in paralysis. In 1955, Jonas Salk developed a vaccine, and a nationwide vaccination program was initiated in the United States. By 1979, polio had been eradicated from the country, and today, it is only active in Afghanistan and Pakistan. While polio cannot be cured, vaccinations have played a crucial role in prevention (World Health Organization, 2017).
The impact of polio is personal to me, as my mother is a polio survivor. Her experience with the disease has taught me important values such as tolerance, patience, compassion, and selflessness. I actively participate in activities like the March of Dimes walk-a-thon and make contributions to support ongoing research and assistance for polio survivors. Looking ahead, I anticipate an increased level of responsibility in caring for my mother as her health needs continue to evolve. I remain grateful for the medical advancements that have largely eradicated the virus and hope for future treatments for post-polio syndrome.
HIST 2006 Week 5 FINAL PROJECT: TOP 3 ELEMENTS 2
My second element focuses on the Civil Rights Act of 1964, a pivotal piece of legislation resulting from the Civil Rights Movement primarily aimed at addressing discrimination against black individuals and other minorities. This act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin in public accommodations and employment (Goff, 2012). Working in a human resources capacity, I have had to familiarize myself with various aspects of this law, including recruitment, hiring, promotion, compensation, harassment, and classification.
The Civil Rights Act is essential as it protects the rights of individuals to equal job opportunities based on their qualifications rather than factors such as skin color, religious beliefs, sex, or national origin. As a multiracial person, I believe this act has safeguarded me in my pursuit of employment at times. During my twelve years of working in the nuclear industry, I observed a shift towards more opportunities for minorities, reflecting the commitment to equal employment outlined in the Civil Rights Act. I envision this act continuing to encourage businesses and industries to reach out to minorities as the minority population grows.
HIST 2006 Week 5 FINAL PROJECT: TOP 3 ELEMENTS 2
The last element I selected is the technological innovation and advancement of the internet. The commercialization of the Internet in the United States in the late 1980s and early 1990s marked a significant turning point. Initially accessible only through dial-up service using telephone lines, the Internet has undergone remarkable progress. Today, wireless connectivity is widely available, allowing access to the internet through laptops, phones, and tablets without the need for physical connections (Chapman, 2009).
The internet has revolutionized various aspects of life, enabling activities such as online education, banking, bill payments, socializing with distant family and friends, email communication, online shopping, and extensive research from the comfort of home. As someone who grew up in the 1970s, I am amazed by the profound influence of the internet. Looking ahead, I anticipate even greater advancements in internet-related technology. I envision a future where traditional brick-and-mortar schools may no longer exist, as education becomes increasingly accessible online worldwide.
HIST 2006 Week 5 FINAL PROJECT: TOP 3 ELEMENTS 2
Furthermore, I expect increased awareness of global social issues, such as hunger and poverty. The progression of internet technology may extend to automated household appliances, with notifications sent to personal devices when tasks are completed. The next twenty years hold immense potential for further integrating society with automated systems.
I chose the polio vaccine and the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as elements that have personally impacted my life. These milestones have shaped me into the person I am today, teaching me valuable lessons and providing opportunities for growth. While the internet has not influenced me on such a personal level, its transformative effects are undeniable. I believe that these three elements have not only influenced me but have also had a significant impact on many others.
Resources
Chapman, C. (2009, November 15). The History of the Internet in a Nutshell. Six Revisions. Retrieved on February 12, 2017, from http://sixrevisions.com/resources/the-history-of-the-internet-in-a-nutshell/
Goff, R., Moss, W., Terry, J., Upshur, J., & Schroeder, M. (2012). The Twentieth Century and Beyond: A Global History (Laureate Education, Inc., Custom Ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill.
Nuclear Energy Insight. (2011, January). Nuclear Industry Reaches Out to Minorities. Retrieved on February 11, 2017, from https://www.nei.org/News-Media/News/News-Archives/nuclear-industry-reaches-out-to-minorities World Health Organization. (2017). Poliomyelitis (Polio). Retrieved on February 10, 2017, from http://www.who.int/topics/poliomyelitis/en/
