The Effects of Pain-Relief Methods on Low-Risk Childbearing Women Thesis

The Effects of Pain-Relief Methods on Low-Risk Childbearing Women Delivered by Midwives - Thesis Example It is a well-known framework in the practice of midwifery that normal processes of pregnancy and birth can be facilitated through education, health care, and supportive information. These would involve both the clients and their families and would need physical care, emotional and social support, and involvement of family members taking into account the cultural values and personal preferences regarding health care (Begley, 2002, 310-317). Therefore, not only continuity of competent clinical management and care, but also there are important components of holistic care of the individual and promotion of health education. Since midwifery is all about empowering the women to join in the decision-making process and urging her to speak for herself, the patients' experiences are important in building a theory about a particular health condition. Pregnancy is a natural phenomenon while its management is not. Care of the mothers during the intrapartum period is crucial since this takes care of the mother and the baby at the same time. Immense development in the healthcare front and its related knowledge has changed the scenario in maternity and child health in the developed world (Eberhardie, 1998, 149-152), where evidence-based regulations and guidelines work in the hospital setting as well as in the community to serve the pregnant laboring mothers with the best possible care, even though it is delivered by the midwives. On the contrary, in the undeveloped and underdeveloped world, the picture is different, due to many reasons. The state and government and politics play a large role in policy making, and there is a diminished priority to such issues (Carr, 2003, 393-397). Developing care is a derivative of the education and knowledge of the midwives who offer care, whether it is in the hospital or in the community. If state nursing and midwifery education system is not modernized, there is a high chance that despite a good intent, the care by the midwives would be aff ected, and ultimately, the standard of care and satisfaction with care would be reflected through the perceptions of the patients. Latendresse et al. (2005) speculate that the quality of midwifery care contributes to shorter and easier labor, which may, in turn, reduce the risk of complications (Latendresse et al., 2005, 386-391). This practice could have an advantage not only by reducing maternal mortality and morbidity but also in terms of value for money which is a critical factor for all countries (Bernis et al., 2003, 39-57). Whatever may be the country of the mother, any mother passes through latent, active, and transitional phases of the different stages of labor, and these psychological changes have the great impact on the laboring mother, and these usually intensify as the labor progresses. These comprise a means of evaluation of a woman's progress in labor and how she is coping with the demands being placed upon her by labor and the environment within which she is laboring.

Online Education for Adults Essay Example for Free

Online Education for Adults Essay Online education provides the perfect remedies for adults’ needs for further education as it is flexible, cost-effective and wide-ranging. One of the most obvious advantages of online educational program is flexibility. Jobs, working condition, and domestic compulsion do not allow an adult to attend classes physically and at specific times. Online education supercedes these ‘time and space’ boundaries. As compared with traditional on-campus programs, online education is economical. So an adult can manage his education alongside fulfilling personal and family obligations. The most important benefit of online education is its wide-ranging programs that suit one’s interest. One needs not to move across the country to find a university or college with a program that suits one’s interest.

Industrialized Building Systems in Malaysia

Industrialized Building Systems in Malaysia Industrialised Building System does not have a commonly-approved definition. There are a few definitions by authors who studied into this area previously were found through literature emphasizing on prefabrication, off-site production and mass production of building components (Rahman Omar, 2006) (Warszawski, 1999) (Trikha,1999). This method will enable cost saving and quality improvement through the reduction of labour intensity and construction standardisation. Apart from this, it offers minimal wastage, less site materials, cleaner and neater environment, controlled quality, and lower total construction costs. In other countries, IBS is known as off-site construction, offsite manufacturing and pre-fabrication. The used components are pre-fabricated. Successful IBS implementations in the world are Sekisui Home (Japan), Living Solution (United Kingdom), Open House (Sweden) and Wenswonen (Netherlands) (Oostra Joonson, 2007). In Malaysia, Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) has classified the IBS system into 5 categories as follows (IBS Roadmap, 2003): Precast Concrete Framing, Panel and Box Systems Steel Formwork Systems Prefabricated Timber Framing Systems Steel Framing Systems Blockwork Systems IBS has been introduced in Malaysia since early 1960s by the use of pre-cast concrete beam-column element and panelised system (Thanoon, 2003). The projects in Jalan Pekeliling, Kuala Lumpur and Rifle Range, Penang used Danish System and French Estoit System respectively. However, due to the leaking issue and high cost in producing panel components the technologies did not take off as planned. IBS Roadmap 2003-2010 was developed and published to steer the direction of IBS implementation and promotion activities and guide the practitioners and policy makers on IBS related issues (IBS Roadmap, 2003). The importance of IBS was highlighted under the Strategic Thrust 5 of the Construction Industry Master Plan 2006-2015 (CIMP 2006-2015) which has been published as means to chart the future direction of the Malaysian construction industry in 2006 (CIMP, 2006). Problem Statement IBS Survey 2003 stated only 15% of construction projects used IBS in Malaysia (IBS Survey, 2003). IBS Mid Term Review in 2007 indicated that approximately only 10% of the complete projects used IBS in the year 2006 as compared to forecasting IBS usage of 50 % in 2006 and 70% in year 2008 as projected in the roadmap (Hamid et al 2008). The availability of cheap foreign labour which offset the cost benefit of using IBS is a main cause of the slow adoption (Kamar et al 2010). According to Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) Malaysia, at June 2007, 69% (552,000) out of total 800,000 of registered workers is foreign workers (CIDB, 2007). It is a huge number which distress the stability and growth of domestic economy and created social problems. Besides, small contractors are already familiar with the conventional system and for them the technology suit well with small scale projects and therefore not willing to switch to mechanised based system. Furthermore, small contractors lack financial backup and are not able to set up their own manufacturing plants as it involves very intensive capital investment (Rahman Omar, 2006). It was highlighted by many that the idealism, processes and management and skill sets behind IBS is differs from the traditional method. Lack of knowledge in IBS construction technology is equally important. There are cases, where building projects are awarded and constructed using IBS system but were contribute to the project delays and bad qualities. This has leaves the industry with a noticeable difficulties when using IBS. As a result, the industry is reluctant to embrace in IBS unless it is required by the clients. A wider understanding on the characteristics and what is involved in IBS is needed. By using the old processes is now critical if the industry is to move forward. The industry requires change management to encourage new mindset. A STUDY INTO FACTOR OF SLOW ADOPTION OF INDUSTRIALIZED BUILDING SYSTEM (IBS) IN MALAYSIA Aims Objectives The aim of this study is to identify the factor of slow adoption of Industrialized Building System (IBS) in Malaysia. The following will be the objective: To identify/determine cost issue is the factor of slow adoption of Industrialized Building System (IBS) in Malaysia. To identify/determine low standardization of IBS component is the factor of slow adoption of Industrialized Building System (IBS) in Malaysia To identify/determine lack of knowledge of IBS is the factor of slow adoption of Industrialized Building System (IBS) in Malaysia. To identify/determine negative perception to IBS is the factor of slow adoption of Industrialized Building System (IBS) in Malaysia. Hypothesis Cost issue is the factor of slow adoption of Industrialized Building System (IBS) in Malaysia. Low standardization of IBS component is the factor of slow adoption of Industrialized Building System (IBS) in Malaysia. Lack of knowledge of IBS is the factor of slow adoption of Industrialized Building System (IBS) in Malaysia. Scope of Study Research Methodology Literature Review In the beginning, literature review was conducted to determine an overall idea of Industrialized Building System. The data and information will be collected from books, journals, dissertations, and information from internet. These materials will be used as background study to understand about the topic. By having all the information, it wills shows the critical path and leads to the research purpose. Questionnaire Survey The questionnaire survey method is used for data collection. The questionnaire will be distributed to the construction players such as developer, consultant and contractor. The respondents will be asked about their knowledge on Industrialized Building System (IBS), the preference of promotion and marketing of Industrialized Building System (IBS) in Malaysia in the future and why they are choosing or not choosing to use Industrialized Building System (IBS). Interview Interview was conducted to understand the market needs and to understand more about IBS. The target of interview will be CIDB officer, developer, consultant and contractor. Chapter 2: Literature Review 2.1 Industrialized Building Systems in Malaysia Malaysia construction industry is now being developed from conventional construction methods towards more effective construction method. Through the Ninth Malaysias Plan, the Malaysias government is encouraging the usage of Industrialized Building System (IBS) as an alternative to the conventional construction method. IBS is a construction method consisting of assembling separate structural components on the site. In IBS, the suitable size of IBS components such as beams and columns are very critical. Besides that, the type of connection between the structural element play the key role to make sure the building is functional, economic and safe. The structural member and connection used should be able to transfer any load applied without having severe damage. The Malaysias government through the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) has a strategic plan to improve the effectiveness and productivity of the construction in Malaysia. It can be achieve by introducing the IBS into the Construction Industry. During the early use of IBS in Malaysia, there is several problem occur. The IBS usage in the building construction is much lower than the infrastructure. The system is more expensive. Besides, leaking is a major problem and it has less aesthetic appearance. In 1960s, there is no comprehensive plan that can be used as guidance to the construction industry. So, the industry is depending to the existing conventional technology that needs high quantity of labour. In order to make Malaysia as a develop industry country in the year 2020, Roadmap IBS is conducted by CIDB with collaboration of the Public Work Department of Malaysia. The roadmap has been released in 29 October 2003. The Roadmap IBS is made as guidance and reference to all activities that help the industrialization of the Malaysias construction sector. 2.1.1 Types of Industrialized Building System in Malaysia According to CIDB Malaysia (2001), the IBS is a construction process that utilizes techniques, products, components, or building systems which involve prefabricated components and on-site installation. Base on the structural aspects of the system, IBS can be identified into five major groups: Precast Concrete Framing, Panel and Box Systems Precast concrete elements are the most common IBS type. There are precast concrete columns, beams, slabs, walls, lightweight precast concrete, and permanent concrete formworks. Besides, it is also consist of 3D components such as balconies, staircases, toilets, lift chamber, refuse chamber and etc (CIDD Malaysia, 2001). Steel Formwork Systems They generally involve site casting, and therefore subjected to structural quality control. So, it is considered as the low level or the least prefabrication IBS types. However, this system does offer high quality finishes and fast construction with less site labour and material requirement. These include tunnel forms, tilt-up systems, beam and column moulding forms and permanent steel formwork like metal decks (CIDD Malaysia, 2001). Prefabricated Timber Framing Systems The products of prefabricated timber framing system are timber building frame and timber roof truss. Among these two timber roof truss is more popular. Timber building frame also have its own niche market where it is offering interesting designs from simple dwelling units to buildings requiring high aesthetical values such as chalets for resorts (CIDD Malaysia, 2001). Steel Framing Systems This system commonly used with precast concrete slabs, steel columns and beams. This systems have always been the popular choice and used extensively in the fast-track construction of skyscrapers. Recent development in this type of IBS includes the increased usage of light steel trusses. It is consisting of cost-effective profiled cold-formed channels and steel portal frame systems as alternatives to the heavier traditional hot-rolled sections (CIDD Malaysia, 2001). Blockwork Systems By using this effective alternative system, the tedious and time consuming traditional brick laying tasks are greatly simplified. The construction method of using conventional bricks has been revolutionized by the development and usage of interlocking concrete masonry units (CMU) and lightweight concrete blocks (CIDD Malaysia, 2001). 2.1.2 Advantages and Disadvantages of Industrialized Building System By using IBS, the manufacturer can provide quality controlled end products through the controlled prefabrication process. The IBS required simple on-site installation. Besides, it can provide faster completion of construction. This is because IBS using the standardized prefabricated components. Another advantage of IBS is it will create a neater, cleaner and safer construction site. There will be reduction on the construction debris, site workers and materials involved on the construction site when using prefabricated components. For a long term period, IBS will be a cost saving construction method. The formwork that are made by steel and aluminium allow for repetitive use and this leads to considerable cost saving. Besides, IBS also have the flexibility of design. It can provide some additional aesthetic value to the project design and at the same time provide higher quality and better finishes. IBS also have its disadvantages. The initial cost of IBS is usually high. The initial cost is for supporting machinery and factory. The prefabrication system relies greatly on sophisticated machineries, which have to be well controlled and maintained by skilled operators. Problem of joints is one of the major problems in building constructed using IBS which leads to water leakage. Producing IBS components require a large working area for setting up factory, machineries and storage to store the component. IBS may also cause delay because of supply delay and shortage of raw materials. Delay may also happen due to lack of expertise. 2.2 Cost issues 2.2.1 Incentives for Industrialized Building System (IBS) are not sufficient Giving out incentive is one of the ways to attract more IBS user. The government through CIDB has introduced exemption of the construction levy (levy 0.125 % of total cost of the project according to Article 520) as an incentive on contractors that used IBS at least 50% IBS components in construction of new residential project since 1st January 2007 (CIDB, 2010). Even though, there is only a slight increase in the number of IBS user. This can say that the incentives for IBS are not sufficient. IBS adoption requires more pull and push factors from the government. Changing from conventional method to IBS was not possible due to the small profit margin unless more attractive incentive systems and benefits which can attract the conventional user to IBS (Kamar et al 2010). 2.2.2 The availability of cheap foreign labour The availability of cheap foreign labour which offset the cost benefit of using IBS is a main cause of the slow adoption. As long as the industry can easily to obtain foreign workers, the labour rates will remain low and contractor will find it is unattractive to change from conventional method to IBS (Kamar et al 2010). ÂÂ  With high demand for construction activities in previous years, the industry has attracted a huge number of foreign workers into this country to take up employment on site as unskilled labour doing manual jobs. According to Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) Malaysia, at June 2007, 69% (552,000) out of total 800,000 of registered workers is foreign workers. It is a huge number which distress the stability and growth of domestic economy and created social problems. The locals are reluctant to join the industry due to the low salary scheme being offered to foreign workers and wrong image projected by the industry. Therefore, government put in place measures to encourage industries to move-up the value chain and, where possible, to automate and mechanise their operations and in areas where automation and mechanisation was not possible, efforts were being made to replace foreign workers with skilled workforce (Kamar, 2010). 2.2.3 High Initial Investment Capital Many small contractors are reluctant to adopt IBS system and prefer to continue using the conventional method of construction. This is due to the fact that small contractors lack of financial backup and are not able to set up their own manufacturing plants as it requires huge investment capital. In this case, financial issues become the main obstacle for small contractors to move forward with the IBS system (Rahman Omar, 2006). In the perspective of components manufacturer, IBS construction requires high initial investment capital for them to purchase new machinery, mould, importing foreign technology and wages of skilled operator for installation process (Thanoon et al. 2003). 2.3 Low Standardisation of components Low standardisation of components also hinders successful use of IBS. The tailor-made components which do not fit into another project will increase initial costs due to the cost of the mould and design. Lack of standardisation was due to a lack of a certification and accreditation scheme on IBS and the poor response to Modular Coordination (MC) promotion under MS 1064. Modular Coordination (MC) is defined as a coordinated unified system for dimensioning space, components, fitting, etc. so that all elements fit together without cutting or extending even when the components and fittings are manufactured by different suppliers (Trikha, 1999). The dimensional control of building is very important because it is necessary to place the building parts so they can fit and function properly. In the conventional construction practice, the control of dimension is relatively simple. However, due to the industrialization of construction scenario, the structural component is prefabricated. The dimensional coordination of these components is importance. The full benefit of industrialization is impossible without standardization. No effective standardization is possible in the building industry without dimensional coordination (Warszawski, 1999). Modular coordination system will be pursued aggressively in next millennium in order to make housing delivery be more efficient since components can be systematically factory-built and installed on-site. This will help to reduce the industrys dependence on foreign labour. All buildings are to be designed according to modular coordination principles as laid down in Malaysian Construction Standard 1 and 2 (Ministry of Housing and Local Government Malaysia, 1999). MC is an industrial friendly construction method. Its able to cater for manufacturing, transportation and assemble requirements. MC has high quality finished products and minimal wastage. It also has faster completion due to replacement from conventional systems to prefabricated components. Its application can produce neater, cleaner and safer sites due to reduction of construction debris, site workers and materials. This construction method just required less use of heavy equipment during the construction. The heavy equipment is needed for the assembly purpose only. The implementation of MC may improve the productivity of construction industry through industrialization. MC can facilitate guidance to building component sizing. This can reduce as much as possible the need to further trim and shape of the materials to fit together in construction in economics of scale. Thus, it can reduce the wastage of labour and materials. Besides, the mass production of building components at factories can ensure a good quality and consistent workmanship. It does also can simplify the site operation by rationalizing, setting out, positioning and assembling of building components at the site. Through standardization, an increasing number of building components may be prefabricated. MC can facilitate the achievement of greater production in the building industry by its ability to discipline the dimensional and coordination of building and its components. Its allowed for a more flexible open industrial system to take place. Standardization not only leads to flexibility in the manufacturing and assembly process but also promises saving in time, energy, material and cost to the designers and the builders. 2.4 Lack of knowledge and to IBS technology Lack of knowledge in structural analysis and design of pre-fabricated components among civil engineers and those related to construction discourages further implementation of IBS system. Knowledge in construction technology is equally important. There are cases where building projects are awarded and constructed using IBS system but were carried out with many difficulties. The most common problems encountered are improper assembly of the components that normally involved the beam-to-beam and column-to-base connections. These problems arise due to the fact that the parties involved in the construction underestimate the important of accuracy in setting out the alignment and levelling of the bases. Basically, accurate levelling and alignment of the bases are the two most important aspects for the successful rapid erection of precast concrete components. Other related technical issues are lack of knowledge capability in designing the details of ties and connections of the pre-fabricated components particularly in precast concrete construction. Poor connection system may cause problem to site work such that the connections cannot be joined properly due to poor construction details (Goodier Gibb, 2004). There are many cases where buildings were designed to imitate the conventional reinforced concrete structural system. This concept results in exposed steel beams and columns. Eventually this invites many serviceability problems such as leakage. Rain water can easily seep into the internal building through the joint between the wall and steel beam. Dampness leads to corrosion to the lighting system and the steel beam. Specialized and additional engineering knowledge will be required to design, manufacture and construct a good IBS system. All parties involved from designers to erectors must have enough knowledge about the pre-fabricated component based construction. In terms of design, the engineer must have competent knowledge in analysis and design. In the construction field, the contractors and site engineers must have enough knowledge on the safe and accurate methods of erecting and assembling loose components into a global structure. Therefore, a broader and comprehensive training program must be taken on board to cater vast demand in these specialised skills (Clarke, 2002) References CIDB, CIDB News, Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) Publication, first quarters 2010, 2010 Kamar, K. A. M., Mohd Idrus Din, Noraini Bahri, Mohd Azmi Dzulkifly, Mohd Rizal Norman, and Zuhairi Abd Hamid. The adoption of Industrialised Building System (IBS) construction in Malaysia: The history, policies, experiences and lesson learned, 2010 Kamar, K. A. M (2010) A Project Management Guideline for the Implementation of IBS, IEM Professional Engineer Report CIDB Malaysia, Manual for Assessment of Industrialised Building Systems, CIDB, Kuala Lumpur, 2001. Clarke, L. (2002) Standardisation and Skills; A translational study of skill, education and training for pre-fabrication in housing, University of Westminster Business School, London Goodier, C. Gibb, A. (2004) Barriers and Opportunities for Offsite Production, PROSPA, Loughborough University, Loughborough Trikha (1999). Industrialised Building System: Prospect in Malaysia. Proceeding of World Engineering Congress, Kuala Lumpur. Warszawski (1999). Industrialised and Automated Building System. Israel: Techinion-Israel Institute of Technology Construction Industry Master Plan 2006-2015 (CIMP 2006-2015) (2006), Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) Malaysia, December 2006, Kuala Lumpur Hamid, Z. A., Kamar, K. A. M., Zain, M. Z. M., Ghani, M. K. and Rahim, A. H. A. (2008) Industrialised Building System (IBS) in Malaysia: The Current State and RD Initiatives Malaysian Construction Research Journal (MCRJ), 2 (1), 1-11. IBS Roadmap (2003-2010) (2003) Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), Kuala Lumpur IBS Survey 2003 (2003), Construction Industry Development Board Malaysia (CIDB), Kuala Lumpur Oostra, M., Joonson, C., C. (2007) Best practices: Lesson Learned on Building Concept (edited by) Kazi, A. S., Hannus, M., Boudjabeur, S., Malone, A. (2007), Open Building Manufacturing Core Concept and Industrial Requirement, Manubuild Consortium and VTT Finland Publication, Finland Rahman, A. B. A, Omar, W. (2006) Issues and Challenges in the Implementation of IBS in Malaysia. Proceeding of the 6th Asia-Pacific Structural Engineering and Construction Conference (ASPEC 2006) 5-6 September 2006 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Thanoon, W. A. M., Peng, L. W., Abdul Kadir, M. R., Jaafar, M.S. and Salit, M.S. (2003), The Experiences of Malaysia and Other Countries in Industrialised Building System in Malaysia, Proceeding on IBS Seminar, UPM, Malaysia

Lysistrata Essay -- essays research papers

Lysistrata A play about making war – and not making love†¦ The Talbot Theatre production of Lysistrata both entertained and delighted this member of the audience, who was there partly because of an English assignment requirement, but mainly because of the opportunity to enjoy a live theatre production. The theatre company employed many different components to bring this antiwar play to life that evening on the stage. These components can be broken into three categories, which visually enhanced the text of the play. The first of these categories is the setting, the stage lighting, and the props. The second component is the symbolism of some of those props, and the third component is the character portrayals by the actors on the stage. To take us back to ancient Greece, the props master employed a very simple interpretation using columns on a raised set of steps, with a backdrop of blue. To add to the feel of the era, a statue stands in the middle of the platform. This platform serves double duty as the Akropolis and as the Citadel, both of which the women have occupied. When the men light a fire below the walls of the Akropolis, smoke pours out of the bundle of sticks, making it appear as if a fire has really been ignited. Fortunately the women are ready and the fire is extinguished and the men all doused with water, which is portrayed well with buckets and actions that look as if the men are being driven away by the water. When Kinesias comes to see Myrrhine, and they he...

A New Generation John F Kennedy is about President John F Kennedy Essay

The book John F. Kennedy and a New Generation is written by David Burner and published by Little Brown, Boston in 1988. David Burner is a Professor in the Department of History in State University of New York. Professor Burner research interest includes social history of US. He is currently working on a project with patty Limerick about colonialist women. His other publications include â€Å"A History of Democratic Party (1970), A History of Presidential Elections (2002), Reading from Settlement to reconstruction (1998) and Making Peace with the 60s (1997). His book A New Generation John F Kennedy is about President John F Kennedy admiration that can be seen throughout the book. Even though critics have mentioned many shortcomings about Kennedy, Burner instead focuses on Kennedy leadership and his accomplishments throughout his life. Burner mentions that Kennedy appealed to various segment of public for his style, looks and accomplishments that formed the basis of his support. For example he won the support of Jews, Asians and Hispanic and other blue-collar democrats giving them a promise of American dream as he himself had immigrant background. Burner explores the controversies including success and failures of Kennedy life and how it shaped American consciousness. He provides deeper discussion of Kennedy both as an individual and as a leader allowing readers to examine the changes that shaped the American political system during 1950s and 1960s, and how Kennedy created a greater hope for every American. The author mentions several events and incidents from the time and how Kennedy was influential changing the course of history. For example the Cuban missile crisis tested the leadership of president leadership when Kennedy threatened the use of nuclear arms in the wake of Cuban Mission crisis in 1962. The naval blockade ordered by Kennedy proved successful and the negotiation with Russia ended peacefully. Another incident Burner mentions is the turbulent end of state sponsored racial discrimination, which Kennedy brought to an end by supporting racial integration and civil rights movement. Kennedy was also eager to see US leader of the space race. It was JFK speech in Rice University in September 1962 where he mentioned, â€Å"No nation can expect to be the leader of the other nations. We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do other things not because they are easy, but because they are hard†. Kennedy approached Khrushchev for cost sharing the technology. Kennedy approved a huge sum of $22 billion to launch American Space Project and Apollo goal was finally realized when Neil Armstrong became the first American to land on moon. Bruner discuss the charm of Kennedy and his wife who were more popular than pop stars and movie stars. One main reason was their good looks and charm that was often photographed by magazines and set the changing fashion trend. Kennedy’s even changes the White House environment from a bleak house to lively and house of mirth and joy. They believed that White House should be place of American History, arts and culture. They invited various artists, writers, and scientists including noble laureate which made White House a livelier place. Despite all the good points which burner has mentioned, the book ignores the bed sheet and fashion stories were associated with Kennedy. Kennedy is well known for his history of extra marital affairs including involvement with Marilyn Monroe do not suit a sitting president. Burner did not talk about these issues, even though it has no thing to do with his professional life, yet such incidents were part of Kennedy should have been discussed. Burner has mentioned on several occasions the influence of Kennedy in the domestic and international affairs including the civil rights; however the view of Burner is more of only glorification of the Kennedy. Even though Kennedy is the most popular President of the United States; but critics argue that his reputation is overrated. He was young and charming; but he was unable to achieve any thing major in his lifetime. Kennedy popularity is based on optimistic beginnings on various domestic and international issues. Critics mention that the popular Civil Right Act was envisioned by his brother Robert Kennedy and was signed by President Johnson in 1964 that was Kennedy successor. Kennedy did not disclose the severity of his health condition. He was believed to have Addison disease that is tantamount of failure of professional integrity. He is considered to be the unhealthiest man to sit in the oval office. While other the Addison disease he was also suffering from an extreme backache from childhood added with various kinds of infections. There is also criticism about his domestic politics that Burner has ignored in his book. For example Kennedy tried to appease Southern Democrats by stocking the lower federal bench with segregationists who did not live up to the mark he was advocating. It is believed that by making attorney general he tried to form a political dynasty that the Founding Father did not advocate. However Vietnam is considered his greatest mistake, where during his time US intervention in Vietnam increased and Kennedy authorized a coup absent the Diem; while dictator general overtook the power which further aggravated the situation in Vietnam.. Even though it was in fact Johnson who made his own mistakes by over involving and bombing the Vietnamese excessively, but the game was started by Kennedy and it was not easy to backup. The people who supported war become protestor calling the American administration immoral. Even though Kennedy assignation fueled the Vietnam cause as his untimely death became martyrdom, but Vietnam was blunder that cost US a lot in time money and human life. Had Kennedy not intervened in the Vietnam there would have no loss of time, money and American lives in an unethical war that continued for decades without any outcome. In the case of Cuban Missiles Crisis, it is mentioned that Kennedy went too far and the world was standing at the brink of a nuclear war due Kennedy antagonism. Had the Russian not backed off, there was every possibility of end of the world. For his supporters he his aggressiveness increased US role in international affairs, but for his opponents it was not sane for president to resort to Nuclear weapons as a last choice. Kennedy critics often label him as youthful charmer with little substance especially by conservatives. And it is often done to minimize his efforts about Civil Rights and international affairs, but the truth is Kennedy was a man of vision. He initiated many new debates in American Society that was unthinkable in his time. Even though most his policies were achieved by his successors; as he was not able to see his vision fulfilled due to his untimely death, the credit still goes to him. Had he not been able to think ahead of time; many things would have been delayed. For example his plan for landing a man on moon was mega project, which took place ahead of the decade. The landing on moon not only increased US prestige in the world, but it also boosted US military technology and power that continues till today. The Vietnam War was mistake but the same mistake can be seen today in the case of Iraq War. The people who initially supported Iraq War now are chanting against the current administration; there are always opposite views regarding any issue. Kennedy advocated the Civil Right Movement at a time when country was divided; and there was division among his own members, but he took the stance and even called the Martin Luther Jr wife to show his affiliation for a just cause. Though Johnson signed the bill, but it was Kennedy who took a step ahead in a difficult time for which he is worth praise. The book is good for people who have no knowledge of Kennedy as a President; however Burner has not justified his role as writer by discussing his dark side that could have made Kennedy more of a man rather a mythical figure. Reference David Burner, (1988). John F. Kennedy and a new generation. Boston: Little, Brown Robert l Bartley, (February 26, 2001). Coolidge deserves more praise. Retrieved July 8, 2006, Web site: http://www. opinionjournal. com/columnists/rbartley/? id=85000640 SUNY SB Department of History -Faculty Page- David Burner. Retrieved July 8, 2006, Web site: www. sunysb. edu/history/faculty Stephen G. Rabe, (2000). John F. Kennedy and Cuba, November 1962 to November 1963. Presidential Studies Quarterly. 30,

The Battle of Passchendaele - World War I

The Battle of Passchendaele - World War I The Battle of Passchendaele was fought July 31 to November 6, 1917, during World War I (1914-1918). Meeting at Chantilly, France, in November 1916, Allied leaders discussed plans for the upcoming year. Having fought bloody battles earlier that year at Verdun and the Somme, they decided to attack on multiple fronts in 1917 with the goal of overwhelming the Central Powers. Though British Prime Minister David Lloyd George advocated for shifting the main effort to the Italian Front, he was overruled as the French commander-in-chief, General Robert Nivelle, desired to launch an offensive in Aisne. Amid the discussions, the commander of the British Expeditionary Force, Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig, pushed for an attack in Flanders. Talks continued into the winter and it was ultimately decided that the main Allied thrust would come in Aisne with the British conducting a supporting operation at Arras. Still eager to attack in Flanders, Haig secured Nivelles agreement that, should Aisne Offensive fail, he would be permitted to move forward in Belgium. Beginning in mid-April, Nivelles offensive proved a costly failure and was abandoned in early May. Allied Commanders Field Marshal Douglas HaigGeneral Hubert GoughGeneral Sir Herbert Plumer German Commander General Friedrich Bertram Sixt von Armin Haigs Plan With the French defeat and subsequent mutiny of their army, the onus for carrying the fight to the Germans in 1917 passed to the British. Moving forward with planning an offensive in Flanders, Haig sought to wear down the German army, which he believed was reaching a breaking point, and retake the Belgian ports that were supporting Germanys campaign of unrestricted submarine warfare. Planning to launch the offensive from the Ypres Salient, which had seen heavy fighting in 1914 and 1915, Haig intended to push across the Gheluvelt Plateau, take the village of Passchendaele, and then break through to open country. To pave the way for the Flanders offensive, Haig ordered General Herbert Plumer to capture Messines Ridge. Attacking on June 7, Plumers men won a stunning victory and carried the heights and some of the territory beyond. Seeking to capitalize on this success, Plumer advocated for immediately launching the main offensive, but Haig refused and delayed until July 31. On July 18, British artillery began a massive preliminary bombardment. Expending over 4.25 million shells, the bombardment alerted the German Fourth Armys commander, General Friedrich Bertram Sixt von Armin, that an attack was imminent. The British Attack At 3:50 AM on July 31, Allied forces began advancing behind a creeping barrage. The focus of the offensive was General Sir Hubert Goughs Fifth Army, which was supported to the south by Plumers Second Army and to the north by General Francois Anthoines French First Army. Attacking on an eleven-mile front, Allied forces had the most success in the north where the French and Goughs XIV Corps moved forward around 2,500-3,000 yards. To the south, attempts to drive east on the Menin Road were met with heavy resistance and gains were limited. A Grinding Battle Though Haigs men were penetrating the German defenses, they were quickly hampered by heavy rains which descended on the region. Turning the scarred landscape to mud, the situation was worsened as the preliminary bombardment had destroyed much of the areas drainage systems. As a result, the British were unable to press forward in force until August 16. Opening the Battle of Langemarck, British forces captured the village and surrounding area, but additional gains were small and casualties were high. To the south, II Corps continued to push on the Menin Road with minor success. Unhappy with Goughs progress, Haig switched the focus of the offensive south to Plumers Second Army and the southern part of Passchendaele Ridge. Opening the Battle of Menin Road on September 20, Plumer employed a series of limited attacks with the intention making small advances, consolidating, and then pushing forward again. In this grinding fashion, Plumers men were able to take the southern part of the ridge after the Battles of Polygon Wood (September 26) and Broodseinde (October 4). In the latter engagement, British forces captured 5,000 Germans, which led Haig to conclude that enemy resistance was faltering. Shifting the emphasis north, Haig directed Gough to strike at Poelcappelle on October 9. Attacking, Allied troops gained little ground, but suffered badly. Despite this, Haig ordered an assault on Passchendaele three days later. Slowed by mud and rain, the advance was turned back. Moving the Canadian Corps to the front, Haig began new attacks on Passchendaele on October 26. Conducting three operations, the Canadians finally secured the village on November 6 and cleared the high ground to the north four days later. Aftermath of the Battle Having taken Passchendaele, Haig elected to halt the offensive. Any further thoughts of pushing on were eliminated by the need to shift troops to Italy to aid in stemming the Austrian advance after their victory at the Battle of Caporetto. Having gained key ground around Ypres, Haig was able to claim success. Casualty numbers for the Battle of Passchendaele (also known as Third Ypres) are disputed. In the fighting British casualties may have ranged from 200,000 to 448,614, while Germany losses are computed at 260,400 to 400,000. A controversial topic, the Battle of Passchendaele has come to represent the bloody, attrition warfare that developed on the Western Front. In the years after the war, Haig was severely criticized by David Lloyd George and others for the small territorial gains that were made in exchange for massive troop losses. Conversely, the offensive relieved pressure on the French, whose army was being struck by mutinies, and inflicted large, irreplaceable losses on the German Army. Though Allied casualties were high, new American troops were beginning to arrive which would augment British and French forces. Though resources were limited due to the crisis in Italy, the British renewed operations on November 20 when they opened the Battle of Cambrai.