The Argument for America

This is a special bonus episode in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing (at least by some) of the Declaration of Independence.

Every American knows these words and the unalienable rights written out in the Declaration of Independence. We are taught from our earliest school years about life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Looking back into history, the Declaration marks the beginning. Its signing marked for all time the creation of a nation with a certain set of beliefs as its backbone.

It was also a beginning for the men who signed it, but this document was also an end. It was the final statement of colonists who had grown disillusioned with their mother country. For the men at the Second Continental Congress, this was also an opportunity to convince the rest of the colonial world that independence was necessary.

So we ought to, as good Americans, understand its arguments and purpose, not only for us today, but for the original readers in 1776.

Afterward, I also reflect on America today and why I find it difficult to write about what it was, is, and ought to be, but still think it is a wonderful place worth celebrating.

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