July 4th is a celebration for the United States and for good reason. A new nation was declared, based on philosophical principles, with grievances announced for the world to witness.
New nations are formed in several ways: war, coup, rebellion and other – usually violent – ways. But the United States was initially formed by a document.
A document that declared:
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.
Preamble to the Declaration of Independence
The Declaration of Independence is unique, and while not legally binding, it is the basis of American identity making it much more powerful than a legal document could ever be.
The Declaration of Independence should be read and contemplated by all of us. To help you re-read this amazing document, WeMAR GAD is providing a free pocket Declaration of Independence and Constitution to WeMAR members. If you haven’t received your copy at a Government Affairs Advisory Council Meeting, then next time you are at WeMAR ask for Liz Recchia or Kathy Basque so you can get your copy.
Happy 4th of July
Read a collection of documents surrounding the Declaration of Independence including:
Richard Henry Lee’s resolution declaring independence from England
Continental Congress debates and documents
George Washington’s announcement of the Declaration
James Madison’s papers and more…
At the Library of Congress collection