In light of the United Kingdom’s 2020 decision to withdraw from the dysfunctional European Union, we might reflect on the historical context of our Independence Day and why we celebrate it.
Two hundred and forty-seven years ago, the American Colonies severed the bonds with Britain, and our forefathers crafted a visionary document they called the Declaration of Independence. The Revolutionary War was already underway, and the future of the thirteen fledgling states was precarious.
Regardless of this risky enterprise, the signatories of this great document were willing to sacrifice their fortunes, lives, and sacred honor in order to make a clean break from the abusive tyranny of King George III. After several years of fighting under the leadership of Gen. George Washington, the colonists restored their freedom by defeating the British in 1783.
A few years later in 1788, the principles of individual liberty and the rule of law were ratified in the farsighted Constitution and Bill of Rights. America was now free to chart its own course as it forged relations with other nations. The principles of inherent liberty and self-governance have helped the USA become a truly unique republic.
However, in recent years, the federal government has strayed so far from the Founder’s vision that at times it seems barely recognizable. Washington D.C. is being mismanaged by a class of pompous professional politicians who are more interested in the next election than they are in protecting liberty and the national interest. Deficit spending and the colossal national debt threaten the liberties, prosperity, and security that so many brave Americans have fought and died for.
In recent years, the welfare state has grown to epic proportions, thus encouraging dependency rather than individual empowerment and initiative. Trillions of dollars spent on social programs have done little to alleviate persistent economic and social problems.
Moreover, excessive regulations and high tax rates have distorted the free markets and impeded economic recovery. Workers must labor for nearly five months just to pay their yearly taxes.
Too many presidents have bypassed laws with executive orders without the consent of Congress and the courts. Yet the courts are sometimes activated to restrict our constitutional rights instead of firmly defending responsible liberty. This pattern can be puzzling to our allies who expect America to be a firewall against anarchy and tyranny.
Does this sound familiar? Although the current state of the Union might not be as perilous as the colonies were in 1776, we still face a great challenge. Do we want the government to micromanage our lives as a master, or should it serve the people who sustain its existence?
The founders’ ideals of civic virtues, free enterprise, limited government, personal responsibility, and the rule of law are under attack from the regulatory state. With confidence in the political elites at historic lows, perhaps Americans can tear themselves away from the ever-intrusive bureaucratic state.
If we cede too much power to the government, our pluralist democracy could be in danger. Ronald Reagan once observed, “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction,” and Thomas Jefferson noted that, “The price of freedom is eternal vigilance.” We must all be assertive in preserving core American values and the right of self-governance.
Indeed, the primary roles of the federal government are to protect our God-given liberties and maintain a strong national defense, period. Other functions can be administered by local and state governments, while most social problems can be resolved by businesses, families, and humanitarian organizations. We ought to bear in mind that the people make America exceptional, not the government.
To reclaim our American principles, it is crucial to study the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Indeed, the Declaration and Constitution ought to be required reading for politicians at all levels, especially those who represent the people in Washington, D.C.
They will find pearls of wisdom on how our founding ideals and respect for the rule of law can enhance liberty, prosperity, and national security. Happy July 4, 2023!
