Diary of an Early American Boy

After reading Diary of an Early American Boy, in what way(s) do you think life might have been better during the early 1800s than it is today?

In what way(s) was it worse?

Please note that I’m not referring to “easier” in this question – lots of things are easier now.  Instead, I’m asking what seems most appealing and desirable to you about the life of the Blakes, as well as what you are most thankful you DON’T have in common with them.

Your Initial Post should be 4-6 paragraphs long –
–  An intro that gives us your main theme(s)
– 1-2 paragraphs on the “good” stuff (and yes – the order of “good & bad” paragraphs can be switched around ?)
– 1-2 paragraphs on the “bad” stuff 
– A concluding paragraph that ties your main points and ideas all together