The Revolution was a long time ago, who cares? I don't have time to read about old men who wore funny clothes. Does it really matter if I know anything about it?
The American Revolution was a pivotal event in the history, and formation of, the United States and had far-reaching consequences that are still felt today. Studying the American Revolution is important for a number of reasons.
First and foremost, the American Revolution marked the birth of the United States as an independent nation. Prior to the Revolution, the 13 colonies that would eventually become the United States were part of the British Empire. The Revolution was a struggle for independence and a rejection of British rule. Although most may think (or are only taught) about Lexington and Concord, The Boston Massacre, The Boston Tea Party and George Washington, it's far more complex with many aspects, details and specifics that warrant learning about. It was a defining moment in the history of the country and shaped its identity as a nation.
Secondly, the American Revolution was a significant event in the history of democracy and republicanism. The ideals of democracy and republicanism, which were central to the Revolution, have had a profound impact on political thought and practices around the world. The Revolution was a key moment in the development of modern democracy, and its ideals have inspired movements for democracy and freedom in other parts of the world. The United States Constitution has stood the test of time, even though both external (as well as internal threats) have attempted to destroy it, and what is stands for. To understand how it was created, the thoughts and feelings behind it, could (and have) filled volumes upon volumes of history.
Thirdly, the American Revolution was a major event in world history, as it helped to spread Enlightenment ideas about individual rights and freedoms. The Revolution was influenced by Enlightenment philosophers such as John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who argued that people have inherent rights that cannot be taken away by governments. Have you ever studied anything that Locke wrote? Do you even know who he is or have you even heard of him? These ideas were central to the Declaration of Independence and have had a lasting impact on the way people think about individual rights and freedoms.
Fourthly, studying the American Revolution can help us understand the contemporary political and social issues that continue to shape the United States today. Many of the issues that were central to the Revolution, such as taxation, representation, and civil rights, are still relevant today. Much of what we can do in this country are because of what people, both known and unknown, sacrificed in its creation.
Understanding the events and ideas that shaped the Revolution can help us understand and address these issues in the present day. There are the well-known battles, events and people that get a bulk of the credit. However, there are in fact more people that did the heavy lifting and they deserve credit too, which is why I created this podcast.
In conclusion, studying the American Revolution is important because it marks the birth of the United States as an independent nation, had a significant impact on the development of democracy and republicanism, spread Enlightenment ideas about individual rights and freedoms, and continues to influence contemporary political and social issues.
I am not ignorant to the fact that the American Revolution may not be super interesting to some people. Some may study and learn about World War 1, or 2, or Vietnam or another time in history. With that said, even if the Revolution isn't your "cup of tea" (pun intended) shouldn't you at minimum desire to know about the basics? Who were the people behind the creation of a few documents that all citizens abide by and follow, and have for 249 years? What was involved in the creation of the country? Who wrote our Constitution? Who was behind the Decleration of Independence? What prompted several acts of rebellion that eventually turned into the first world war?
One would think at least those topics would not only be vital to know, but should be studied to truly understand the blood, sweat and tears that was involved in creating the most wonderful country in the world.
Understanding the events and ideas of the American Revolution is crucial for anyone interested in the history and development of the United States, and if you are born here, you receive rights and freedoms that 95% of the world only dream about.
Actual history, events, people, monuments and statues are being removed at a fast clip. Schools are not teaching the real facts and truths behind many subjects, including the founding of this country. If you do not know and understand your history, it's likely going to be repeated and you won't know the difference. This is one reason my wife and I teach the US Constitution and American Revolution at a Christian Co-op school. These kids get it, they long for it, and they love learning about everything. I wish public school children, and more so adults, had the same interest and vigor that my students have.
Trust me, those who helped shape our country, those who fought in it, and those that have defended it since 1776, deserve at least some of your time and in the process, you will scratch the surface of many amazing, smart and courageous men and women.
Listen to my podcast, which includes Bonus Episodes, here.
Support this website and podcast by picking up some cool Patriot Power Gear!
All supporters are mentioned on my podcast.
Comments