Question

What is the connotation of the word “fathers” when used to refer to those who founded the United States?

A. a positive connotation that suggests people have a duty to uphold their beliefs

B. a negative connotation that shows how the Civil War is attacking these men’s ideals

C. a neutral connotation because these fathers actually had children in the United States

Answer 1

A, all the way A. Our founding fathers.

Answer 2

Answer:

A. a positive connotation that suggests people have a duty to uphold their beliefs.

Explanation:

In his "Gettysburg Address", President Abraham Lincoln stated that "our fathers brought forth a new nation.....". This bring into account not the feeling of a particular father, but a common, generalized image of the brave souls who gave up their lives bringing a better future for their generations. This presents an image of the soldiers who chose to give up their lives for the best of their future of their children. And by using the common "father", Lincoln was able to instill bravery, patriotism, gratitude and a sense of duty in the people to keep up the fight their forefathers have started and sacrificed their lives for. The word "father" presents a positive connotation suggestive of the need to do their duty in upholding the beliefs of their forefathers and keeping that duty.