Grace Mayo

Definition Essay

October 1, 2020

“Sic Semper Tyrannis”

Many residents of the state of Virginia would define the state to be full of lovers,

after all, that is the state motto. However, citizens of Virginia seem to forget another

adjective to describe their home state, strong. When one thinks about the word strong,

they associate it with arms or muscles, but when I say strong I mean the ability to

overcome obstacles or tragedies and come out united and together as one. Virginia has

seen many major events since it was established as a state back in 1776, from

tragedies to nation altering decisions. Virginia comes out more united and stronger than

ever which makes it the best state.

Virginia earns the right to be classified as a strong state due to the history

associated with the state. Virginia was the first landing spot for European travelers in

their search for a new world. The newly displaced settlers made their new homes in

Jamestown, Virginia. In Jamestown, the settlers faced diseases, harsh winters, and

starvation. Hundreds died in this period and instead of giving up the colonists kept

fighting on to forge for a new and better future. In later years, Virginia would be the

battleground for many wars including the Revolutionary and Civil wars. According to

Legends of America, “Over 2,000 military events took place in the state of Virginia
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during that time frame, more than any other state.” Even with thousands of Virginia

citizens dead and the landscape burned or ruined by the bloodied war scenes, the

people of Virginia never gave up or were deterred, they were strong-willed and ready for

anything.

Virginia has faced tragedy numerous times in the past twenty years. These

tragedies, however, are different than the ones faced in Jamestown. These tragedies

have not only united the state of Virginia but also the entire nation felt the impacts of

these events. One of these tragedies happened on the day that changed the nation,

September 11, 2001. The Pentagon is located in Arlington, Virginia, and is the

headquarters of the United States Department of Defense, which provides a strong

military for our nation. On that September day, a hijacked plane crashed into the

Pentagon as well the Twin Towers and a field in Pennsylvania. Thousands of people

lost their lives that day and led to a unified nation working together to fight evil. Another

tragic event took place on April 16, 2007, when a young man began to open fire at

Virginia Tech. Around 30 students and teachers lost their lives that day. Due to this

shooting, many colleges showed support for Virginia Tech and the Virginia community

by making signs, releasing balloons, and having candlelit services. Pennsylvania State,

President George Bush, and even Virginia Tech’s rival the University of Virginia paid

their respect to the fallen victims and their loved ones. This shows the strength and

resilience of Virginians and their ability to persevere through heartbreak.

Virginians have faced many challenges throughout their history and have proved

themselves to be able to bounce back even stronger and united. It is in the blood of

Virginians to be strong-willed and optimistic. Some may define these events as weak or
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not important, but it is our history. Other states have faced tragedies in their life too, but

through all types of horrific events, Virginians have shown their strength and have

earned the right to be labeled as strong. It is truly an honor to be a Virginian born and

raised.
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Works Cited

Weiser, Kathy. "Civil War Battles of Virginia." Legendsofamerica.com, Aug. 2020,

www.legendsofamerica.com/va-civilwarbattles/.