The Declaration

What Jefferson Wrought   Some interesting history.  Plus commentary on the details:  This document  is not just an emotional call to revolution.    And it was the work of more than one man.

Looks like we need a little more emphasis on history.   Have you considered taking 10 minutes to read the Declaration aloud as part of your Fourth of July celebration? I know a few people who have this family tradition.  It would be nice if we could bring back some more community traditions for this holiday. Sissy Willis started a new community activity this year: she invited readers to Tweet the Declaration.

If you're having a quiet day, how about  comparing the Declaration to the old Soviet constitution? The two documents produced very different results.

Bill Whittle produced a powerful piece on the Declaration back in March.  With an excellent suggestion for making our history come alive.   Recommended.  

Here's an Annotated text of the Declaration of Independence. And a video about the Fourth of July, with attention to the contention and factionalism which were so prevalent at the time. The complex government structure which divided power between various branches was intended to decrease dominance of one faction over another. James Madison advocated an approach to government based in "reason, benevolence and brotherly affection."

Have a great Fourth of July.

Update - Wretchard, a naturalized Australian with a keen appreciation of the importance of the American Experiment, writes:

Both Thomas Jefferson and John Adams died on the 4th of July, 1826. Though both men were on their deathbeds, each made an effort through the night of the third to survive until the 50th anniversary of the Declaration. . . .

Daniel Webster, who came on the scene after the Founding Fathers had already passed into legend lamented that “we can win no laurels … earlier and worthier hands have gathered them all.” But he was wrong; history comes back offering each new generation a new set of heights to climb. In that sense the Declaration of Independence will forever remain unfinished business; an enterprise well begun which has not quite been completed. . .

Read the whole thing, watch the video.  The Declaration seems to be on people's minds this year.  A copy with the early drafts is linked here.   You could do a little extra credit on your "citizen's required reading for the Fourth of July". (This year, your holiday probably extends into the 5th).  Captain Ed also has a reminder of the Declaration's world-changing significance, followed by the words themselves.

Calvin Coolidge on the 150th anniversary of the Declaration.  This speech by an almost-unknown president is recommended by a lot of folks.  

Historical Tidbits: The Founders risked a lot.  Book:  A Monticello Sampler.