Border States: Pags' Paper

After reading the last paper I wrote in college, I'm wondering what your reactions are.  Did it give you more insight into the plight of the Border States during the war?  Did you get more insight into the demands of college?  Thoughts?  Comments?

Initial post, test, "How the States got Their Shapes"

Welcome to Mr. Pags' AP US History blog (PAGSAPUSH).  My goal this year is to utilize this blog for online discussion, and to allow you all to post questions, comments, or concerns regularly regarding topics we'll be covering throughout the year.

This initial post is only a test.  I'm curious to see who uses it, your thoughts, etc.  I thought we could start with something simple.  Recently, I watched a show on History Channel entitled How the States got Their Shapes.  It was very interesting, and went over some obvious things (the use of rivers and other natural boundaries), and some things I had never heard before (for instance, regarding the state of Franklin named after Benjamin Franklin, or the Jefferson Territory which contained parts of various, current Rocky Mountain states).

These two were of particular interest to me as I watched.  I have provided links to two short articles regarding these two defunct territories of the United States of America (I've confirmed the information in each article).  Additionally, you should view the video regarding the State of Franklin's history.  It was a documentary made by a student like you for the National History Day competition.  Please reply with constructive comments and reactions to what you read, view.  And, of course, please be as specific as possible.

• State of Franklin
• Jefferson Territory

The Lost State of Franklin - History Day 2008 from Alexander Atallah on Vimeo.