Don’t you just love the 4th of July? On this day we come together as Americans to celebrate life and liberty in this amazingly beautiful country that has long been a beacon of hope for the world.
July 4, 1776, was a major turning point. It marks the date when the 13 colonies declared their independence from Great Britain and became a new nation – the United States of America. Penned by Thomas Jefferson with edits from Ben Franklin and John Adams, the Declaration of Independence was signed by John Hancock, president of the Continental Congress.
The tide of events that led to signing the Declaration of Independence was not all that unlike the events that are unfolding in America today. Prior to 1776:
- King George III came into power in 1760 as a tyrannical ruler who resented any opposition to his will, either in Parliament or the colonies. In Parliament, his policies were supported by a group known as the “King’s Friends.”
- Excessive taxes without representation raised the ire of the colonists, especially when forced to pay “duties” to Great Britain for items such as “tea, paper, colors, and glass.” Boycotts were effectively launched, including the famous Boston Tea Party when (December 16, 1773) some 50 men boarded the tea ships and dumped 342 chests of tea into the Boston Harbor.
- While this act was hailed as a heroic defense of colonial liberties, it was regarded as a lawless riot by the English who declared that Boston must be taught a lesson. Through the “Intolerable Acts,” the Port of Boston was closed to all trade in order to starve the citizens into submission; town meetings were restricted and power concentrated in the hands of the royal governor; soldiers were to be quartered in the private homes of citizens; and anyone accused under civil law would be tried in England.
Sound familiar?
Not only did the Declaration of Independence arouse people’s enthusiasm for freedom, but it also listed grievances to support its necessity and justification. In closing, the Declaration of Independence includes these solemn words:
“And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor.”
As we celebrate the spirit of freedom today, let us meditate upon these historic words. Once again, we are facing very serious threats to our freedoms, health, and happiness. The future of our nation depends upon those who are willing to give of their time, talent, and treasures.
Please consider renewing your commitment to our nation’s future by supporting the Convention of States in whatever way you can. It only took a few to lead our nation out of tyranny and financial enslavement in the 1700’s. As Patriots, it is our duty to carry forth the torch for freedom today.
For more information about Article V and the Convention of States, click here.
