U.S. History, Tuesday Evenings
Fall 2012

Narratives Essays

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Students were prompted to write a narrative that was either autobiographical, based on a family member, or a person that was close to them.

They were asked to explain how the selected person or persons' experience intersected with a historical event or era. 

The narratives are listed below by Topic, Abstract, and Key Words. 
Use buttons to open a PDF file of selected narrative.
Narrative 1:
Topic: The American Dream

Abstract: His journey begins at a young age. He was two years old and his parents had taken the decision to cross the border to the promised land, the United States. ...In school Carlos was watching all the little kids run around and yelling things at each other, while Carlos did not understand one word. He did not know English.

Key words: American Dream; Future; Opportunities; Immigration; Border Patrol; Journey; Dream Act
Narrative 2:
Topic: My Great Grandfather immigrating from Italy and his journey toward finding success.

Abstract:  My Great Grandfather was the son of a poor farmer. He had an ongoing passion for gardening. He only had a 4th grade education because he had to work even though education was very important to him. He immigrated to the United States to seek job opportunities. He worked in the coal mines until he retired and saved his money. He was able to save enough money to send his daughter and three granddaughters to college for a better life.

Key Words: Great Grandfather, democracy, struggled, immigrated, United States, coal mines, in love, money, passion, train, gardening, California, college education, sacrifice
Narrative 3: 
Theme: The comparison between grandfather’s and grandson’s Army experience.

Abstract: Between every generation things change or are looked at differently. Culture, art, music, food and war. The Vietnam War was one of the least supported conflicts in U.S. military history. The reason was the movement going on in which those who refused to kill because of personal or religious beliefs.

Key Words: culture, war, Army, country, conflict, objector, support, bulling, religion, mental, physical, draft, military
Narrative 4:
Topic: A Direct Hit for A&P Mechanics, and Myself

Abstract: The acts of September 11, 2001 affected future jobs for A&P mechanics. Before, jobs for A&P mechanics had been abundant, and most airlines hired at the spot. But after September 11, 2001, the airlines had been reluctant to hire A&P mechanics. After September 11, 2001, doubts and fears lingered in the minds of A&P mechanics to not finding jobs. And during the 2007-2009 recession, these doubts and fears came true. That is, the airlines “cut-down” and laid off thousands of A&P mechanics. Also, the airlines stopped hiring instead of being reluctant to hire. It became apparent that a cascade effect (from September 11, 2001 to the 2007-2009 recession) had been created, forcing A&P mechanics to find other jobs. Or at least, forced A&P mechanics to get other degrees not relating to their field of study. This, an attempt to get a better life, I thought. I sure did this, being that I am an A&P mechanic.

Key Words: September 11, 2001, A&P mechanics, the 2007-2009 recession, job prospects, the airlines.
Narrative 5:
Topic: The terrorist acts of September 11, 2001 and the war against the Middle Eastern Countries.

Abstract: There are things which make us who we are; individuals, but there are times when we all  unite as one and go through battles which life many times throws at us. The terrorist acts of September 11, 2001 was one of those days in which ALL of the United States united as one and suffered through the terror. For every action there is a reaction. After personally seeing the acts of that September 11, 2001, the consequences or reaction occurred. The United States was now entering war. My cousin who is a military soldier, took the time to answer some questions which I had in mind about his thoughts about the war and his personal experience in the war in Afghanistan, as well as what was going through his thoughts when he saw the acts of terrorism in September 11, 2001.

Key Words: September 11,2001, War, Military, Violence, Terrorist, Al Qaeda, Television, United States, Afghanistan, experience.
Narrative 6:
Topic: 9/11 and the War that Followed

Abstract: My lifetime has seen many history changing events, there have been multiple circumstances where one might consider the event very substantial to U.S. history, however 9/11 was the most life changing. I woke up to the news report of the attacks and at first did not understand what was going on, it took me a while but I was eventually able to conclude that my country was under attack. I watched as the U.S. reeled in the wake of the event and followed the news on the war. I also had my own personal ties to the war in my family and friends, the outcome being a new outlook on life and my freedom that will never change.

Key words: 9/11, U.S., military, PTSD, war, attacks, anger and rage.
Narrative 7:
Topic: Having Economy Problem in Mexico but great opportunity in United States

Abstract: My narrative is based on economic problem in Mexico when my parents decided to come in United States looking for a new opportunity in order to prove our life.  The narrative explains how it was my life and also how my brothers, Grandma, and I face on economy problem without parents support. Also I am the older girl of my family, I was 10 years old and had a big responsibility based on my family. We had to live with our grandma 5 years before my dad apply residence status.

Keyword: Economic problem, family, Mexico, opportunity, United States, residence status, in 2000, Mexico, faith and love from god, miracle.
Narrative 8:
Topic: My experience as a child trying to comprehend the severity of the attacks on September 11, 2001

Abstract: The moments immediately following the attacks on the Twin Towers in New York City were undoubtedly confusing to all of America. This tale is that of  a young man who was in the prime of his youth, trying to understand the reasoning behind the attacks and what the attacks meant for diplomatic and international relations. And doing all of this while receiving little-to-no guidance from his elders.

Keywords: September 11, Twin Towers, Confusion, Terrorist, Devastation, Loss, Unification.
Narrative 9:
Topic: My parent’s immigration from Mexico to the United States

Abstract: For my parents being a newlywed couple was not all joy and love. Soon they were faced with the reality that my parents after only a few months of being married were going to be separated. My dad decided to come to the United States and work to provide money for my mom and a better life for them. Shortly after being separated my mom could not bear to be a newlywed alone without her husband and decided to come to the United States illegally and join him.

Key words: Illegal, Immigration, Family, American Dream
Narrative 10:
Topic: My Father’s participation in Relay for life.

Abstract: My Father’s battle with cancer changed everything in our family. Even though he wasn’t state or worldwide known, he was another reason for people to keep trying to find a cure. His story about how he got to participate in the relay for life, which is thrown by the American Cancer Society.

Key Words: Cancer, Father’s experiences, Relay for life, Families emotions, Death.
Narrative 11:
Topic: Insight Interview with a Iraq veteran

Abstract: The Attack on the twin towers on 9/11, was a point that made sergeant Z decide he wanted to join the marines. A collection of stories on mission he had to endure while in Iraq, including his worst recollection of one. Feelings of being away from family and friends. A Marines memories in Iraq and how it felt coming home. Difficulty adjusting back to regular life after military life

Key words: Marines, Iraq war, military,9/11,family, friends, missions, memory, regular life, experiencing, casualties.
Narrative 12:
Topic: Technology

Abstract: Technology has developed a great deal since 1989. DVD’s and Blu-rays have replaced VHS. Netflix has replaced how movies are rented. Smart phones have replaced our inability to communicate with people on the go. Facebook and other social networking sights have replaced our need for meeting people one on one. Technology advances are good, but we must be careful that we can still socialize with others.

Keywords: Technology, communication, technology era, technological advancements, DVD

                            
Narrative 13:
Topic: Having a Child at Sixteen

Abstract:  The complicated life of a teenage mom, as she struggles to raise and support her child. Her actions have forced her to growing up way to fast and get her priorities straight. Life’s little simplicities are taken away when kids start having children of their own. She will struggle to stay in school and keep a roof over her head. The valuable lesson learned here is that when one’s life changes we all realize who our family and true friends are. A young mother learns and teachers her children the meaning of support, parental guidance, and unconditional love.

Key Words: Teenage Mother, Sadness, disappointment, responsibility, support, struggles, family, parental supervision, guide, lifestyle changes, unconditional love.
Narrative 14:
Topic: How the Internet has affected my life since it was available in my house.  

Abstract: The internet is a worldwide invention. Many people benefit from the use of internet because you can use the internet to work, learn, socialize and may more things. The internet is a daily tool for most people in the U.S. and has become available in a variety of technology gadgets such as cell phones. Ever since I first had internet in my house it was affected me in a positive way. The internet has helped learn many skills and has allowed me to keep in contract with family that life far way or another country without having to spend a lot of money using the telephone. Since the internet is worldwide it has allowed me to buy stuff from other country since sometimes they offer best prices even with shipping included, and buying products that are not found in the U.S. ,whether if it’s for my car or for myself.             

Keywords: Internet, Friends, Facebook, Skills, Money, Business, Homework, Benefit, Learn, School, Worldwide.     
Narrative 15:
Topic: The overcoming of teenage cancer           

Abstract: In 2003, I received news that everyone would be terrified to hear. I was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, which is a type of cancer that eats the bone. Only 20% of victims survived and I was only 14 at the time. The only way to save my life was by giving me Chemotherapy and this treatment could save me but at the same time kill me. I ultimately lost my leg to the cancer but I have overcome it and now I can say that I’m a cancer survivor.

Key Words: Cancer, Chemotherapy, Oncology, Tumor, California, Osteosarcoma Cancer, Amputation, Life Changing, Teenage.
Narrative 16:
Topic: My Experience With The Economic Crisis

Abstract: The Economic crisis that began in 2007 and took a big hit in 2008 unemployed many people that I knew. Because of the housing market dropping 2007, the construction industry dropped and affected my family and those who were from Mexico and it created a large influx of people heading there. The economic crisis made people lower their standard of living and it drew families together. My Dad and brother did not lose their jobs or took any pay cuts but it created a bad way of thinking that they had nothing. Many lessons were learned and allowed me to make wiser decisions.

Key Words: Economic Crisis, Family, Mexico, Jobs, Retirement Plans, Stock Market, Christmas Eve, Thankful, Provide, Faith, God, Wise Choices
Narrative 17:
Topic: My father-in-laws participation in the César Chavez boycott of 1975

Abstract:  My father-in-law immigrated to the U.S. at a very young age. While picking lemons he noticed how unfair the pay was, when the opportunity came he joined Chavez in the boycott. They built booths at the border of San Luis, AZ and México. Some people did not participate because they needed to provide for their family.

Key Words: Immigrate, fields, boycott, booths, illegal, rights, participate, farmer, unfair pay.
Narrative 18:
Topic: My Journey To A Healthier Life

Abstract: Throughout my life I have always been a bigger person, and I didn’t really know how to change that.  I was always discouraged because I was very uncoordinated, and was no good and any type of physical activity.  After high school I was very unhappy about my appearance and my cousin helped me with the initial steps of getting healthy.  Which it’s hard to be overweight in a world where society thinks that skinny is the only way to be beautiful.  And if you don’t fit into that category it makes you an easy subject to be bullied.

Key Words: World, overweight, unhealthy, eating, society, bulling, insecurity, fitness, crossfit, gym
Narrative 19:
Topic: 911

Abstract: It was day like any other New York City; no one had expected that day to be anything other than an average work day in the city. Little did everyone know that would be the day that would soon change the face of the era we are currently living through. This is the story of that day and the events that followed that led to the situation we find ourselves in today.  Around 8:45 on the morning of September 11th, 2001, one of the two hijacked planes crashes into the north face of one of the twin tower buildings. Shortly thereafter the second hijacked Boeing 767 airplane crashes into the next building collapsing them both and killing nearly 3,000 people that were either working in the building, or working frantically to save as many people as they possibly could.

Key Words: 911, family, gloomy, patriotism, war, military, grey, personal point of view, memory, violence,
Narrative 20:
Topic: My father’s experiences’ during the Vietnam war

Abstract: My father at the age of 20 was drafted into the armed services during the Vietnam war. In an attempt to minimize his time spent in battle, he chose to go into the navy as a medic. His career choice however saw a large portion of his medical class put on the front lines with the marines. towards the end of his service, he had seen some life changing events and was ready to go home. After getting an early release (3 years 9 months), my dad was finally going to leave Vietnam when he withstood a barrage or rockets while waiting for his flight home. After that he was able to return home and all he wanted to do was take off his uniform and blend in with the crowd

Key words: Father, Navy, Vietnam war, Sacrifices, Moral, managing, WWlll, USS Midway, Aircraft Carrier, Unsettling Episode, Fast, Patriotism
Narrative 21:
Topic: Recession Hits Again

Abstract: It is not easy growing up in economic hardships.  My mother grew up a

bit after the recession with very little.  Her father had migrated from Mexico to have a better life.  He worked very hard to support his family.  He instilled lots of traits in her that she now has passed on to me.  She taught us to be grateful for what we have.  She would say we don’t need luxuries.  She was raised in a large family where everyone contributed.  Her and her siblings had to work very hard for very little.  Later in life she became a single mother.  She was homeless at times and at other times she supported her family with two jobs.  Times like this have seemed to return and I am now witnessing similar events.  I have seen people do intense things in order to survive through hard times.  The hardships we are experiencing now are alike to the times my mother lived through.

Key Words: Economic hardships, Poor, Migrated, Homeless, Recession, Appreciation, Education
Narrative 22:
Topic: Change of Life

Abstract: Everybody thinks that American Life is perfect. Most of the people emigrate because they are looking for a better life. United States lately have been having some economic problems. And even when people know about this problem, people keep leaving their country looking for a better life. Sometimes it is too late when we realize that probably in our country we could have a better life or the same life that we are looking forward to have.

Key Words: Mexico, emigration, future, recession, education, dreams, proud, marriage, family, economy, job, and money.
Narrative 23:
Topic: Technology advancements throughout my life time.

Abstract: Technology has changed from VHS and the Walkman, to iPods and DVD players. Advancement in technology has made VHS, the Walkman, and other electronics obsolete. People have become obsessed with their phones, the internet, and technology. Lives have been lost in car accidents that have been caused by texting and talking on their phone. Children are now technology junkies. Kids use to play outside, now they play inside on their computer or videogames.

Key Words: Internet, cell phones, technology, advancements, obsolete, attached.
Narrative 24:
Topic: The Earth Shook

Abstract: In 1989 the Loma Prieta earthquake hit at 6.9 on the Richter Scale. I was five years old at the time and so I don't remember much about it, however, my father does remember all about it. He remembers that there wasn't the technology that we have today to communicate with loved ones at the time of this earthquake. Despite of the magnitude of this earthquake my family survived and we saw that the community came together to help each other.

Key Words: 1989 earthquake, low technology, father, community.
Narrative 25:
Abstract:  A Holy War was waged from the Kingdom of Leon (northern Spain), to the provincce of Andalucia(southern Spain). Ranimiros is a patronymic name that came from Gothic King Ranimiros III,(964-985ad), later translated as Ramirez. My mother's account (because my father disappeared before I was born), goes something like this: My father was a courageous man which came to the States while the laws back home became more favorable for jews and christians.
Narrative 26:
Topic: My Grandfathers experience in the Bracero Program

Abstract: The Bracero Program gave my grandfather his American Dream. With all the hard work and struggles that he had to go thru at the end of his journey he managed to accomplish what he really wanted. To become a Rancher with hundreds of Acers. And through this experience he felt that he needed to give back my lending a hand to help others like he was once helped.

Key Words: Bracero Program, Ranchers, Labor work, life changing, Decision making, Supportive, Traveling, Family, Opportunity.
Narrative 27:
Topic: My 24hr Leap Day experience at Disneyland.

Abstract:The first  time Disneyland has ever been open to the public overnight. The trip was a surprise for my daughter. Disneyland was overwhelmed by crowds. Inside Disneyland people were drinking, smoking, and fighting. A crazy event that I’m glad I was able to experience.

Keywords: Leap Day, Disneyland, Family, 24hrs, Special Event, First Time Ever.
Narrative 28:
Topic: Think Globally Act Locally

Abstract: I began my journey in 2009.  At about the same time a series of events had also begun to develop throughout the world.  In the end these events would contribute to my personal situation but at the time I was not aware of what this interaction would be.    We are in the middle of a recession, globally, nationally and locally. People in all fields were losing their jobs. The end result being increases in the occurrences of domestic violence, marital difficulties and ultimately divorce. While financial situations alone were not the cause of my separation and divorce they did contribute to my moving on to choose another path in life.

Keywords: Family, Parents, Siblings, Recession, Unemployment, Social Economic, Jobs, Community, Divorce, Children, Single Mother, Global Economy.
Narrative 29:
Topic: How I remember the September 11 attack on that day.

Abstract: Sixth grade student, Yaret Simentel, shared sympathy with the victims of September 11. Her emotions were stirred as she related her personal loss of a family member with those televised around the country. This event marked a sentiment of unity in her heart forever. The author explained what she as witness saw the reality of evil and horror. Tragedy and death. She saw all as the same, the world as one!

KeyWords: September 1, middle school, television, terrorism, mother, father, United States of America, students, teacher, twin towers, airplanes, hijacked, pentagon, suicide bombers, nightmare, family, disease, pain, sadness, cancer, united.
Narrative 30:
Topic: From the Dust Bowl in Kansas to the Rural Areas of California

Abstract: My grandfather was born in Kansas in 1933 and lived in great poverty.  At times there was only one dime to feed the whole family.  When the opportunity came to move to California my great grandparents seized it and moved the family to Hollister, California.  My grandfather grew up knowing what hard work was and the money he made went to help the family with food or buy clothes for school.  Even though hardships continued throughout my grandfather’s life he grew to love California and served in the Army, had a family, and to this day still remembers the lessons he learned during those hard times and passes those lessons down to his children and grandchildren.

Key Words: Great Depression, Dust Bowl, California, family, diversity, economic hardships
Narrative 31
Topic: How the Rock N’ Roll era has shaped me into who I am today.

Abstract: Music has been in the family and it helps give me a sense of peace. Though the rock environment was hard on me with the pressures of drugs and alcohol, it has shaped me into who I am today. Without the Rock N’ Roll era I would be a complete different person. History effects our future generation. 

Key Words: Rock N’ Roll, Music, Sister, Dad, Studio, Passions, Energy and Joy
Narrative 32
Topic: A day of magic and terror.

Abstract: On October 17th 1989, the San Francisco Giants were in their first World Series game at Candlestick Park in nearly 27 years. That same day, a 7.0 earthquake also known as the Loma Prieta Earthquake of 89’, shook most of the Bay Area for 15 seconds. One moment I am playing ball waiting for the game to start, and the next moment I’m standing in my tracks feeling the earth move around like waves in the ocean. It would be a day of infamy for all Bay Area residents, and change the lives of many.

Keywords: 89, Giants, Loma Prieta, San Francisco, Bay Bridge, Marina District, Earthquake, World Series.

Narrative 33

Topic: Collapse of the Housing Market

Abstract:  The Collapse of the Housing Market was a grim time in the U.S. It was a time were families were torn and communities destroyed. When my family lost our house it was a traumatizing experience. One that came with the loss of identity and security. Even though losing our home was hard I had to be strong for my younger sister. It was hard times, everyone struggled , but we all found ways to make the transition easier.

Key Words:  Mother, father, sister, Janai, hope, overwhelming, strong, hard, loss, home, new, life.