Harder They Come

"The Harder They Come" Constructed Response Activity

"THESE are the times that try men's souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman. Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly: it is dearness only that gives every thing its value... for though the flame of liberty may sometimes cease to shine, the coal can never expire..."

~ Thomas Paine's The American Crisis December 23, 1776

1) What document was the above quote taken from? When was it written?

2) What important event in American History was taking place during the time this document was written?

3) Compare the quote and the song lyrics. How is the message or meaning of each work similar? Are there differences? Cite language and lyrics to support your answer.

4) Why did Thomas Paine write The American Crisis at this time? Who was the intended audience and what was his purpose?

5) What did Thomas Paine mean when he wrote “summer soldier” and “sunshine patriot”?

6) Explain the last line of the excerpt above that begins with, “for though the flame…”

7) During this time “Americans” were able to defeat the most powerful army and navy in the world at that time. Identify and discuss two reasons for our victory.

The Harder They Come
( By Jimmy Cliff )

Well they tell me of a pie up in the sky
Waiting for me when I die
But between the day you're born and when you die
They never seem to hear even your cry

So as sure as the sun will shine
I'm gonna get my share now of what's mine
And then the harder they come the harder they'll fall,
One and all
Ooh the harder they come the harder they'll fall,
One and all

Well the oppressors are trying to keep me down
Trying to drive me underground
And they think that they have got the battle won
I say forgive them Lord, they know not what they've done

'Cause as sure as the sun will shine
I'm gonna get my share now of what's mine
And then the harder they come the harder they'll fall,
One and all
Ooh the harder they come the harder they'll fall,
One and all

And I keep on fighting for the things I want
Though I know that when you're dead you can't
But I'd rather be a free man in my grave
Than living as a puppet or a slave

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