Podcasts about american founding

This episode is presented by Create A Video – A 160-page report on the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History shows deep ideological rot, with leftist leaders more focused on demoralizing visitors about the nature and heritage of the United States. The museum's director found herself on the hotseat in Congress yesterday.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-pete-kaliner-show--6946691/support.Subscribe to the podcast My preferred podcast platform: SpreakerAll the links to Pete's Prep are free!Get exclusive content here!Media Bias Check: GroundNews promo code!Advertising and Booking inquiries: Pete@ThePeteKalinerShow.com  

Was America's founding really great? Were our founders truly exceptional or was our project simply an outgrowth of the Enlightenment? In today's episode Dr. Robert Reilly weighs in on these questions.   Get Your Copy of “America on Trial” Here: https://ignatius.com/america-on-trial-aotp/?searchid=0&search_query=america+on+trial   Dr. Robert Reilly is the celebrated author of “America on Trial”—a book that looks at the American founding with a critical eye. This book addresses many of the criticisms of the American experiment, specifically those raised by conservatives and Catholics. Ultimately, Dr. Reilly highlights the truly exceptional nature of our founding and its ancient and medieval roots. In today's episode, Dr Reilly revisits some of these criticisms and addresses in detail the common and mistaken belief that the founding of America was simply an Enlightenment project like the French Revolution. With a more accurate understanding of our founding just 250 years ago, Dr. Reilly hopes to encourage greater patriotism and respect for our founders.   SUBSCRIBE to our channel and never miss an episode of the Ignatius Press Podcast. You can also listen to the podcast on Apple, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. Follow us on social media: Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/IgnatiusPress Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ignatiuspress Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ignatius_press/   Music from Music_For_Videos, Gregor Quendel. https://www.classicals.de/legal

Hans Eicholz joins the Law & Liberty Podcast to discuss the second edition of his book, Harmonizing Sentiments, and the Declaration.

On the Flyover Conservatives Show, Richard C. Lyons joins David and Stacy Whited to break down the real meaning of “democracy” — and why the word has become one of the most misunderstood and weaponized terms in American politics. As America heads toward its 250th year, Lyons traces the roots of liberty from the Ten Commandments, Athens, Rome, the Magna Carta, and the American Founding to explain why our nation was built as a constitutional republic, not mob rule. He exposes how socialism, the administrative state, and modern political movements have worked for over a century to shift America away from individual rights, common law, local governance, and God-given freedom. This powerful conversation reveals why America's history is not something to erase, but something to recover — and why understanding where we came from may be the key to saving where we are going.TO WATCH ALL FLYOVER CONTENT: www.theflyoverapp.com Follow and Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFlyoverConservativesShow To Schedule A Time To Talk To Dr. Dr. Kirk Elliott Go To ▶ https://flyovergold.comOr Call 720-605-3900 ► Receive your FREE 52 Date Night Ideas Playbook to make date night more exciting, go to www.prosperousmarriage.comRichard LyonsWEBSITE: https://thednaofdemocracy.com/BOOK: https://www.amazon.com/DNA-Democracy-Richard-C-Lyons/dp/0960072330X: https://x.com/dnaofdemocracy_ Richard C. Lyons is an award-winning author, poet, essayist, and screenwriter whose work focuses on liberty, tyranny, history, and the foundations of Western civilization. He is the author of The DNA of Democracy, a sweeping historical work tracing the roots of democracy from ancient law and classical civilizations to America's constitutional republic. Lyons brings a storyteller's voice and a historian's depth to the battle between freedom and tyranny across the ages. His writings explore why America is unique, why individual rights matter, and how nations lose their foundations when they forget their history. Through his books and public commentary, Lyons encourages Americans to rediscover the truth of their founding and defend the freedoms that made the nation possible.

Welcome to a special edition of Last Call, which brings you the best of the week from the 3 Martini Lunch! However, as we mark 250 years today since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. In this edition, Jim and Greg will share their favorite depictions of the American Founding and our Founding Fathers .First, they head to television, as Jim showcases the popular miniseries George Washington in the 1980's and Greg points to a specific episode from one of the most popular sitcoms of that decade, Family Ties.Next, Jim recommends the HBO series focusing on a Founding Father who deserves more attention - John Adams. That series was based off a book by famed historian David McCullough. Greg highlights another McCullough book plus a two-volume set of novels that are good for any age.Then, Jim dives into the popularity of the Broadway hit Hamilton, which tells the story of Alexander Hamilton and so many others from that era. Greg gives a shout out to the Mel Gibson movie, The Patriot.Please visit our great sponsors:HomeServeFor 50% less your first year, go to https://HomeServe.com/Martini to find the plan that's right for you. Savings compared to renewal price. Void in Florida.Fast Growing TreesBetter plants, better growing, and an extra 20% off with code MARTINI at https://FastGrowingTrees.com/Martini for a limited time; terms and conditions may apply.New episodes every weekday. 

Are you ready to dive into a fascinating discussion about the Christian foundation of America? In this episode, Tudor talks with David Barton, an expert in historical and constitutional issues. They explore the importance of understanding America's Christian roots and how they have been overlooked in schools. David sheds light on the significance of religion and morality in American history, referencing George Washington's farewell address where he emphasized their importance as the indispensable supports of political prosperity. The Tudor Dixon Podcast is part of the Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Podcast Network - new episodes debut every Monday, Wednesday, & Friday. For more information visit TudorDixonPodcast.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Jim and Greg for a special Friday 3 Martini Lunch as they discuss many different reasons why they love the American Founding and why we all ought to be grateful to be the heirs of that amazing era in history.First, Jim is thankful for the incredible collection of intellect, wisdom, and courage of our founders. From Washington to Adams to Jefferson to Hamilton to Franklin and many others, he says America was blessed with the right leaders at exactly the right time. Greg focuses on the revolutionary ideas of that movement. Next, Jim points to some of the flaws that have come out about our Founding Fathers over the past 250 years. But he explains how those flaws actually help him appreciate our founders more. Greg takes a similar line of thinking by noting that "all men are created equal" was not a reality at the time but Jefferson's words became rallying cry to bring change during the Civil War and the Civil Rights movement.Then, Jim shows some love to the allies that helped us defeat the heavily-favored British Empire. And it wasn't just the French. Greg applauds one of the most critical moments of the founding era, thanks to George Washington.Please visit our great sponsors:IncogniTake control of your digital footprint today.  Use code 3ML at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/3ML Noble GoldOwn the metal the future depends on. Visit https://NobleGoldInvestments.com/3MLDownload the free investor kit. No pressure. Just the information.New episodes every weekday. 

Guests: Khalil Habib and Wilfred McClay Host Scot Bertram talks with Khalil Habib, associate professor of politics and Allison and Dorothy Rouse Professor in Politics at Hillsdale College, about the American Founding and his recent essay, “The Importance of the Fourth of July, According to the Adams Family.” And Wilfred McClay, Victor Davis Hanson Chair in Classical History and Western Civilization at Hillsdale College, discusses the importance of measured patriotism and his recent article, “Memory and America’s Birthday.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's podcast is titled “Western Tradition and The American Founding.” Recorded in 2025, host Jim Falk sits down with author, filmmaker, and Presidential Scholar at New College of Florida Joseph Loconte and John Meko, President of Founding Forward for a conversation on the Western tradition and its role in shaping the American republic. Tracing the arc from ancient Greece and Rome through the Enlightenment to the founding documents, they explore how ideas about individual rights, natural law, and the separation of powers became the bedrock of American self-governance. Listen now, and don't forget to subscribe to get updates for the Free To Choose …

As America marks the 250th anniversary of the Revolution, a key question still deserves our attention: how did a loose collection of North American colonies defeat the most powerful empire on earth?In this special episode of The Learning Curve, co-hosts Prof. Albert Cheng of Ohio State University and Massachusetts state champion U.S. history and civics teacher Kelley Brown explore that question with Pulitzer Prize winner Joseph Ellis, author of His Excellency: George Washington and the new The Great Contradiction: The Tragic Side of the American Founding. Their conversation centers on George Washington, the figure historians consider indispensable to American independence.Among the topics they explore:A general who won by not losing: Washington lost more individual battles than he won, but by Valley Forge he understood he needed only to outlast the British, fighting a "war of posts" and engaging only when he held the advantage.A leader defined by surrendering power: Prof. Ellis shares that Washington never overtly sought to lead the Continental Army, or become president, and that precisely because he did not want power, he could be trusted with it.A presence that made the U.S. Constitution possible: Washington didn't speak until the last day at the Constitutional Convention, yet his presence alone lent the effort its legitimacy. As Prof. Ellis puts it: without Washington, no war won, no Constitution, and no nation.A reckoning with the Founding's failures: Drawing on his latest book, Prof. Ellis examines the two great tragedies of the Founding, slavery and the mistreatment of Native Americans, and where Washington, who chose to free the enslaved people he owned, stood on each topic.Tune in to hear this fascinating conversation about why George Washington's example remains relevant today.

In light of this week's 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, we interview Catholic scholar and historian Charles Coulombe. While he is a proud American patriot, he also argues that many elements of the American Founding were incompatible with Catholic teaching (including the justification for the Revolution itself). We consider some of these issues on this auspicious anniversary.As much as we got into in this interview, there are many more issues yet to explore on this topic. Stay tuned for future interviews.VISIT OUR WEBSITEhttps://eternalchristendom.com/BECOME A PATRON OF THE GREAT TRADITIONAs a non-profit, you can support our mission with a tax-deductible gift. Help us continue to dig into the Great Tradition; produce beautiful, substantive content; and gift these treasures to cultural orphans around the world for free: https://eternalchristendom.com/become-a-patron/CONNECT ON SOCIAL MEDIAX: https://twitter.com/JoshuaTCharlesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/joshuatcharles/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshuatcharles/DIVE DEEPERCheck out our “Becoming Catholic” resources, where you'll find 1 million+ words of free content (bigger than the Bible!) in the form of Articles, Quote Archives, and Study Banks to help you become, remain, and deepen your life as a Catholic: https://eternalchristendom.com/becoming-catholic/SUBSTACKSubscribe to our Substack to get regular updates on our content, and other premium content: https://eternalchristendom.substack.com/EXCLUSIVE BOOKSTORE DISCOUNTShttps://eternalchristendom.com/bookstore/CHAPTERS00:00 - Intro: Charles Coulombe, America, Monarchy, and Patriotism02:20 - Welcome, Prayer, and Opening Setup07:48 - Demographics, Immigration, Abortion, and Paying the Price18:08 - From 1492 to Jamestown: Colonization and the Protestant Revolt24:41 - Stuarts, Cromwell, and the English Civil War in America36:17 - Glorious Revolution, Oligarchy, and Parliamentary Sovereignty59:03 - George III, World Wars, and the Road to Revolution1:27:04 - Quebec Act, Catholic Emancipation, and Colonial Grievances1:39:10 - Loyalists, Revolution, and the War for Independence1:53:35 - Was the American Revolution Just?2:14:56 - Patriotism, Civil Religion, and Loving America Honestly2:45:25 - Foreign Policy, Woke America, and Final Reflections on HopeThis podcast can also be heard on Apple, Spotify, and other podcast platforms.

On the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, it's worth asking: What was the American Revolution actually about? We all remember the broad strokes we learned in school: Independence from the British crown. Taxes on tea. Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. But on a deeper level, the American Revolution was—and is—a revolution in political theory, reimagining what a legitimate government is and what its relationship to its citizens should be. Washington's troops won the ground war 245 years ago at Yorktown, but the ideological battle continues against forces on both the left and the right who are pursuing a ruthless assault on America's core values. The American Revolution isn't over. Inscribed inside the dome of the Jefferson Memorial are the words: "I have sworn upon the altar of God eternal hostility against every form of tyranny over the mind of man." Thomas Jefferson wrote that in an 1800 letter, but that feeling of hostility toward the tyranny of a distant monarch is what drove him and his fellow revolutionaries in 1776. Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch summarized the Declaration's core ideas in an interview with Reason: "The Declaration of Independence had three great ideas in it. That all of us are equal. That each of us has inalienable rights given to us by God, not government. And that we have the right to rule ourselves." That's why Jefferson declared that a legitimate government requires the "consent of the governed." Thomas Paine put it more scathingly in his 1776 pamphlet Common Sense, writing that "government by kings was first introduced into the world by the Heathens." Monarchy was the Devil's most effective and enduring form of "idolatry." We don't fret over tyrannical kings in today's America. Only ceremonial vestiges of hereditary monarchy remain in the modern world. The Revolution achieved a complete victory in that sense. Yet a counterrevolution is underway, one that views the American Revolution and the republic it birthed as a failed liberal regime that has outlived its usefulness. And these counterrevolutionaries sit remarkably close to the levers of power. Self-Rule Under Threat Three years before he became vice president, J.D. Vance told podcaster Jack Murphy that America had reached a point of no return. "We are in the late republican period," he said. "If we're going to push back against it we have to get pretty wild and pretty far out there and go in directions that a lot of conservatives right now are uncomfortable with. Indeed, among some of my circle the phrase 'extra-constitutional' has come up quite a bit." Vance regularly cites and associates with a group of so-called "postliberals." He appeared on a panel with one of this movement's leading intellectuals, Patrick Deneen, a Notre Dame political science professor and the author of Regime Change: Toward a Postliberal Future, in 2023. Deneen believes there is an unbridgeable divide between the "elite" and "ordinary" people. "What is needed," he writes in the book, "in short, is regime change—the peaceful but vigorous overthrow of a corrupt and corrupting liberal ruling class," which will be replaced by a more virtuous one. He envisions the kind of aristocratic government favored by the ancients like Plato and Aristotle, endorsing "aristopopulism," where an elite class works to further the interests of the masses. "The replacement of the current elites in our society ought to be more closely aligned to the interests of ordinary people," Deneen said at the panel. He invokes a "premodern conception of liberty—expressed in the pages of Plato, Aristotle, the Bible," where institutions like the family, the church, and the state worked together to impose "guardrails" protecting individuals from becoming "slaves" to their own desires. My colleague Stephanie Slade writes about the postliberal right for Reason magazine. "He says people like [himself] should just be in charge of our government. That's what he means by regime change," Slade says. "[That] we should replace the current elites." She notes that postliberals are willing to frame the entire American Founding as a mistake: "They might say, yeah, America did have a liberal founding and that's why it was a mistake. Actually, this whole experiment was a mistake, and it maybe took a couple hundred years for that mistake to play out….We now can see that it doesn't lead to good conservative outcomes." In his book Common Good Constitutionalism, Adrian Vermeule, a postliberal Harvard Law professor and appointee to President Donald Trump's Council of the Administrative Conference of the United States, wrote that "the central aim of the constitutional order is to promote good rule, not to 'protect liberty' as an end in itself." That's a rejection of the spirit of 1776. Paine saw the existence of government as a necessary evil because of "the inability of moral virtue to govern the world." A minimal state, in his view, should be restricted to supplying "freedom and security." As Gorsuch put it in the same Reason interview: "If you think of the Declaration as kind of our mission statement, our ideals, and the Constitution is the how-to manual—well, the Constitution is all about dividing power. Madison realized men are not angels and that their aspirations for power need to be checked and checked and checked again." The "regime change" Deneen and Vermeule call for isn't explicitly violent. Deneen describes "Machiavellian means to achieve Aristotelian ends." The strategy manifests as a steady expansion of presidential authority, as we've seen under Donald Trump's second term: the 143 executive orders he signed in just his first 100 days, more than any other president in history; his decision to send troops to American cities without permission from local authorities; his declaring of 21 national emergencies while in office; and his decision to send illegal immigrants to overseas prisons in defiance of the judicial branch. Incidentally, one of the grievances listed in the Declaration of Independence was King George III's penchant for shipping the accused "beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offenses." Before he became vice president, Vance encouraged Trump to emulate Andrew Jackson and dare the Supreme Court to try enforcing its rulings against him. "If I was giving him one piece of advice," Vance said, "fire every single mid-level bureaucrat, every civil servant in the administrative state, replace them with our people, and when the courts—because you will get taken to court—and when the courts stop you, stand before the country like Andrew Jackson did and say, 'The chief justice has made his ruling, now let him enforce it.'" "That's a really dangerous idea to be even casually trotting out there, let alone for somebody who is now the sitting vice president to be on the record," Slade says. "He said it a number of years ago when he was just a candidate for office, but I've never seen anything from him since he's been in office that makes me think that he doesn't ultimately believe in that sort of approach to politics." Some postliberals call for measures far more dramatic than the steady erosion of constitutional restraints currently underway. Michael Anton, who worked in Trump's State Department over two terms, wrote in his book The Stakes about the prospect of a "Red Caesar"—a right-wing dictator who would rise from the ashes of the fallen republic. "Caesar's word replaces constitutionalism and even, in the final analysis, law," he wrote. In a podcast conversation with pro-monarchist blogger Curtis Yarvin, Anton discussed what that might look like. "Caesarism is a form of monarchy, but that follows a nonfunctioning republic, a republic that doesn't work anymore," Anton said. Yarvin proposed that the path to power would begin with declaring a state of emergency in an inaugural address, "taking direct control over all law enforcement authorities….Basically like Caesar, you're using all of the force available to you."  "There is just clearly much more of a sense that government power is meant to be used to advance our side in the face of our enemies," Slade says. "And the enemies are the left, the political left, and anyone on the right who isn't going to line up with [them]. [They believe] political power should be used to reward our friends and punish our enemies, and that to me is a clear violation of one of the core principles of rule of law, which is equal treatment for everyone under law." In the COVID era, President Joe Biden imposed national mandates by executive fiat, and his administration tried to suppress dissent by pressuring tech companies to censor critics. The Democratic Party has also flirted with the idea of packing the Supreme Court to get its way, which is not a new impulse for the party. When President Franklin Delano Roosevelt tried to pack the Court in 1937, it cost him the support of progressives who had previously backed the New Deal. FDR is revered by progressives and cited by Yarvin as a prototype for an American Caesar. "Was FDR a dictator? What does it mean to be a dictator? What does this pejorative word mean?" Yarvin asks. "A dictator is somebody who rules alone. And that, I think, is a beautiful thing." The Revolution was, first and foremost, about self-rule: We would no longer abide by a diktat from an overseas king. From the very beginning of the republic, power-seeking men have tried to undermine that vision. In its earliest days, there was a plot to install a Prussian prince as king of a new American monarchy. Jefferson accused John Adams and Alexander Hamilton of being monarchists, recounting in horror a dinner conversation in which Hamilton told him "the greatest man…that ever lived was Julius Caesar." But monarchy is seductive because strongmen promise order in chaotic times. In the wake of Shays' Rebellion, a post-Revolution farmer's uprising, Jefferson worried the Constitution's drafters were overreacting by creating a powerful presidency that would devolve into a monarchy. "What country can preserve its liberties if their rulers are not warned from time to time that their people preserve the spirit of resistance?" he wrote. And then, famously: "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants. It is its natural manure." Hopefully, patriots won't be shedding blood anytime soon. But Jefferson's point stands: Preserving the promises of the Revolution will always be an ongoing battle. Self-rule was one of those promises. Another was self-ownership, which includes the right to do what you want with your own property. The Rise of 'Right-Wing Progressivism' The Declaration accused the king of "cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world." The American colonies experienced unprecedented economic growth, a topic of keen interest to the laissez faire economist Adam Smith, whose book The Wealth of Nations also turns 250 this year. Smith was fascinated by the American colonies, observing that their "progress has been more rapid than that of the English in North America. Plenty of good land, and liberty to manage their own affairs their own way, seem to be the two great causes of the prosperity." Other imperial powers, such as the Spanish and Portuguese, mandated that their colonists trade only through state-created monopolies. Smith pointed out that because American colonists could export lumber to the wider European market, they were incentivized to clear and improve land. Low taxes enabled them to reinvest their profits. Smith criticized England's Navigation Acts for prohibiting colonists from buying from other countries and for discouraging manufacturing to protect domestic competitors. Although England's "mercantile spirit" hampered the economy, Smith believed that in virtually every other respect the liberty of the English colonists "to manage their own affairs their own way is complete," concluding that both England and the colonies would be better off with an independent America that traded freely with England. Like the American revolutionaries, Smith described economic freedom as not just smart policy, but as a natural right. "To prohibit a great people…from making all that they can of every part of their own produce," he wrote, "is a manifest violation of the most sacred rights of mankind." That revolutionary understanding is still under attack today from both the left and the right. Socialists like Sen. Bernie Sanders (I–Vt.) and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani talk about individual profits as if they are the property of the collective. And Trump has the same mercantilist instincts toward trade that Smith argued against 250 years ago. "I love tariffs. Most beautiful word," Trump said in September 2025. "I said my favorite word in the English dictionary is the word tariff."  The postliberal right argues that laissez faire economics has undermined the working class. "Conservatives have outsourced our economic and domestic policy thinking to libertarians," Vance said at a 2019 National Conservatism Conference. "Do we serve pure unfettered commercial freedom, do we serve commerce at the expense of the public good, or do we serve something higher? And are we willing to use political power to actually accomplish those things?" "It is really important to recognize that what the postliberal right is pushing in terms of economics is progressivism," Slade says. "It's not conservatism." Tucker Carlson made the point in 2019 when he praised Elizabeth Warren's "economic patriotism" platform, noting it "sounds like Donald Trump at his best." What the so-called "economic patriots" of the left and right are converging on is a rejection of the spirit of 1776 and an embrace of monarchy. In the 18th century, many colonists could trade only through state-licensed monopolies. Warren has proposed remarrying corporations and the state through "stakeholder capitalism," in which political appointees sit on corporate boards to steer them in the right direction. Trump took a major step toward the corporatist approach in 2025 when directing the federal government to take a 10 percent stake in Intel. Before him, President Barack Obama took stakes in GM and Chrysler as part of a bailout package. "I don't think it's really a sustainable political equilibrium to have two parties that are both economically leftist," Slade says. "The American people are not on board with that. That is the horseshoe in action. And it's part of why I think there is an opportunity for old-school Reagan-style free-market conservatism to make a comeback." The slow abandonment of the revolutionary ideas of self-rule and private property that American patriots fought for in the late 18th century is downstream of a third, fundamental aspect of the American Revolution that is also under attack: freedom of conscience. Remarrying Church and State The postliberal right wants to tear down the wall between church and state. "They want to integrate church and state instead of separating them," Slade says. In some cases, it's Catholic integralists like Harvard's Vermeule, who has described a strategy of turning the government Catholic by "strategically locat[ing]" integralists "within liberal institutions…to undo the liberalism of the state from within." Deneen has suggested passing "blue laws" that would ban pornography, online gambling, and operating businesses on Sundays. A Protestant variety of Christian nationalism is embodied by pastor Doug Wilson—a spiritual mentor to Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, who invited Wilson to lead a prayer at the Pentagon. In a recent interview, Wilson said the "governing authorities should recognize formally that Jesus rose from the dead" and that "the basis of law would have to be Christian, and I would want it to be Protestant." Most of the revolutionaries were Christian Protestants, but they insisted on separating church and state to avoid the horrific religious wars that had ravaged Europe. "Torrents of blood have been spilt in the old world" to end religious discord by establishing state churches, wrote James Madison in opposition to taxes that would have funded an official church of Virginia. An even deeper problem for these devout believers in divine providence was that marrying religion to the state removed the very freedom to choose faith that God desires. In his opposition to the Virginia law, Jefferson wrote that "Almighty God hath created the mind free" and that "all attempts" to force religious belief "are a departure from the plan of the holy author of our religion." Madison argued historically that Christianity reached its "greatest lustre" in the times before it incorporated with the state, and that religious laws would counterproductively discourage nonbelievers from entering a region he hoped would become a beacon of Christianity. "Religion then of every man must be left to the conviction and conscience of every man." Slade draws on her own Catholic faith in making the case. "I am a libertarian because I'm a Catholic, because I believe that every person was created in the image of God," she says. "I just think it's morally wrong from a Catholic or Christian perspective to try to use the coercive, violent power of the state to make people live a certain way. Even if the way that these guys would like to make people live—going to church on Sunday, praying, investing in your community and your family, self-sacrifice—all these good Christian values. They're good Christian values, but they can't be coerced or imposed from the top down. It's wrong and morally offensive from a Christian perspective." Slade says she understands the despair postliberals feel about the collapse of faith and virtue in contemporary America and that they have a point about the progressive capture of institutions. "What they're channeling is a really influential belief, which isn't totally wrong, that the left made a very concerted effort to make what is often referred to as a 'long march through the institutions' and to capture so many of our elite institutions—both at the governmental level but also at the cultural level: higher education, Hollywood, the mainstream media." Critics of the progressive agenda—or "wokeness"—often describe it as its own kind of religion. Linguist and social critic John McWhorter has argued that it has "slowly transmogrified into a kind of replacement for Protestant Christianity" among its adherents. Whether religious or not, progressives have imposed their social values on Americans through public school curricula, federal policy, and civil rights law. They have violated the freedom of conscience that Jefferson and Madison wrote about in a way very similar to how mandating religion would. Postliberalism is part of the political backlash. A poll conducted in early 2021 of people who voted for Trump in 2020 didn't find agreement on nationalist economic policies—tariffs, industrial policy, any of that—but found near-universal agreement on a sense of cultural siege. About 90 percent agreed with statements like "the mainstream media has become just an arm of the Democratic Party" or "Christianity is under attack today." "This sense that the culture has been captured by people who are hostile to people like me and who hate me and want to drive me out of the public square has created so much resentment and so much of a backlash that's driving this postliberal right-wing politics," Slade says. "I don't think it's possible to understand what's going on on the right without looking at what's been going on on the left, definitely ramping up during the period referred to as the great awakening." Slade's new book argues that the remedy to this postliberal moment is a rediscovery of "fusionism"—the reintegration of liberty and virtue. "A good society needs to be both free and virtuous. And the Founders certainly believed this," she says. John Adams wrote just 13 days before the signing of the Declaration that "the only foundation of a free Constitution is pure Virtue, and if this cannot be inspired into our People…they will not obtain a lasting Liberty." "What he's saying is, we can have a limited government in a free society, but if the people aren't naturally virtuous, if they don't trust each other, if they aren't good to each other—that [the Republic] is going to end up succumbing to tyranny and to a strongman government," Slade says. His fellow revolutionary and intellectual adversary Jefferson flipped the equation by writing that liberty "is the great parent…of virtue." Balancing liberty and virtue means reconstructing some of the civic "guardrails" that Deneen laments having lost in modernity—but not handing the power to regulate our conscience to the government. "What we're seeing a lot is people who are focused either on liberty but don't spend a lot of time thinking about how do we cultivate virtue, or who say, forget your liberty, we want virtue at the point of a gun," Slade says. "Government's job is to protect our basic rights and liberties. It should be prioritizing the protection of liberty." "That doesn't mean that virtue isn't important. In fact, it's the highest, most important thing in life—to pursue a virtuous life," Slade continues. "But it's not OK to expect government to do that for us. Government protects our freedom and we use that freedom to pursue virtue." The solution, Slade argues, has to be ground-up. She invokes Alexis de Tocqueville, who observed when he came to America in the 1830s that Americans excel at coming together and creating voluntary community solutions to social problems. "We should have some muscle memory here. We should be able to get back to that idea of thinking of ourselves as being on the front lines of solving problems, building new civil society institutions, nongovernmental institutions that can try to solve the problems we see in our society," Slade says. "Good policy can make this easier. And bad policy can crowd it out and make it a lot harder." The Declaration of Independence is 250 years old, but the Revolution it started is as vital as ever. During the final days of the Constitutional Convention, Benjamin Franklin was famously asked what kind of government they were in the process of designing. "A Republic," he said, "if you can keep it." Photo Credits: Horst Galuschka/dpa/picture-alliance/Newscom/ Dennis Flaherty / Jaynes Gallery / DanitaDelimont.com / Danita Delimont/ Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call/Newscom/ TIA DUFOUR/UPI/Newscom/Antonio Perez/TNS/Newscom/ Aaron Schwartz - Pool via CNP/picture alliance / Consolidated News Photos/Newscom/ Ron Adar / SOPA/ Images/Sipa USA/Newscom/ JT Vintage/ZUMAPRESS/Newscom/ AdMedia/SIPA/Newscom/ Hugh Rooney / Eye Ubiquitous/Newscom/ Bonnie Cash - Pool via CNP/CNP / Polaris/Newscom/AdMedia/Newscom/ Graeme Sloan/Sipa USA/Newscom/ Polaris/Newscom; Eric Lee - Pool via CNP/ZUMAPRESS/Newscom; Department of Defense The post The American Revolution Isn't Over appeared first on Reason.com.

Recovering the Original Understanding of Unalienable Rights. Guest: Peter Berkowitz. Berkowitz reflects on the 2019 Commission on Unalienable Rights, which sought to ground human rights in the American founding tradition. The commission aimed to counter the "proliferating industry" of rights that often serves partisan progressive ends, emphasizing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights' original austere framework. 131936

In the opening episode of The Declaration at 250, Michael McConnell introduces former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and historian David Kennedy to ask a deceptively simple question: what does it actually take for democracy to work? Rice argues that the Declaration of Independence marks not the birth of democracy, but the end of tyranny—and that the real work begins afterward. Democracies flourish only when citizens build durable institutions: a workable balance of power among branches, an independent judiciary, and (often most crucially) a vibrant civil society that channels protest into law, governance, and everyday problem-solving. Drawing on her experiences—from segregated Birmingham to global transitions—Rice highlights how democracies fail when executives become unchecked (Russia) or when states are too weak to govern (Afghanistan), and how they can succeed when institutions gain legitimacy over time (Poland, Kenya, and examples shaped by external constraints like the EU). Kennedy responds by tracing the Declaration's promise of equality as principle, observed condition, aspiration, and enforceable law—while emphasizing the tension between democratic equality and a pluralistic society. He closes with a warning about declining trust in institutions and one another, urging renewed attention to civil society—the practical, local, often unglamorous work that turns founding ideals into lived reality. Connect: Episode Transcripts >>> Stanford Legal Podcast Website Stanford Legal Podcast >>> LinkedIn Page Stanford Constitutional Law Center >> Website Stanford Law School >>> Twitter/X Stanford Lawyer Magazine >>> Twitter/X Chapters:[00:00:00] Welcome & series launch (Karlan + McConnell) Pam Karlan introduces the special episode; Michael McConnell launches The Declaration at 250 and the project's guiding question. [00:00:54] Framing the episode: What does democracy need to flourish? McConnell previews the episode's focus on democratic flourishing, featuring Condoleezza Rice with response from historian David Kennedy. [00:02:04] Rice: The Declaration ends tyranny; democracy is the harder next step Rice argues the Declaration is fundamentally revolutionary—overthrowing the old—raising the problem of how revolutions become democracies. [00:06:05] Rice: America's conditions, near-failures, and why separation of powers matters Rice describes the U.S. “luck,” the near-collapse under the Articles and the Civil War, and the Constitution's durability through distributed power. [00:11:37] Rice: Civil rights, law, and a “second founding” (1964–65) Drawing on personal experience and movement strategy, Rice emphasizes institutional change—litigation, amendments, and landmark legislation—as democracy's engine. [00:20:00] Rice: Institutions vs. culture—lessons from Russia, Afghanistan, Tunisia, Poland, Kenya, Hungary Rice rejects “DNA for democracy” explanations and shows how executive strength, civil society, and institutional legitimacy shape success or failure. [00:32:33] Kennedy: Equality's evolving meaning—and the civil society trust crisis Kennedy traces equality from Jefferson to the 14th Amendment and warns that declining trust and civic know-how signal weakening civil society. [00:42:52] Kennedy's question: “Spirit of constitutionalism,” plus depersonalization (social media/suburbanization) Rice defines constitutionalism as lived civic practice beyond paper rights; both discuss forces eroding community and shared institutions before closing. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this Federalist Society America 250 series, experts analyze modern legal and policy debates through the lens of the Founding generation. The Founders gave us the tools to answer many contemporary questions; join us as we explore those answers.State constitutions were not afterthoughts to the Founding—they were the proving grounds that shaped and informed the United States Constitution. As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, this webinar will explore how these early charters both inspired our national framework and continue to operate as vital, independent safeguards of individual liberty. Discover why state constitutions remain essential pillars of federalism—protecting freedom not just in theory, but in practice.Featuring:Hon. Nels S.D. Peterson, Chief Justice, Supreme Court of GeorgiaTimothy Sandefur, Vice President for Legal Affairs, Goldwater InstituteHon. Jeffrey S. Sutton, Chief Judge, United States Court of Appeals, Sixth Circuit(Moderator) Hon. Jennifer Perkins, Judge, Arizona Court of Appeals, Division One

This episode is a thought-provoking conversation about the significance of Juneteenth, a holiday that commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. The speaker is joined by Dr. Tom Krannawitter, a historian and educator, to discuss the importance of this holiday and its connection to the principles of the American founding. Juneteenth is often misunderstood as a "woke" holiday, but Dr. Krannawitter argues that it's a celebration of the universal principles of freedom and equality enshrined in the Declaration of Independence. He highlights the remarkable achievement of the United States in abolishing slavery within a relatively short period of time, compared to other nations that took centuries to do so. The conversation also touches on the Transatlantic slave trade and the moral imperative of the American founding principles. Dr. Krannawitter shares his insights on the historical context of slavery in England and France, and how the American founding was a unique moment in history that led to the abolition of slavery. He also addresses criticisms that the United States was slow to abolish slavery, pointing out that the country's federal system and the power dynamics between the national government and the states made it a more complex issue. As we reflect on the significance of Juneteenth, Dr. Krannawitter encourages listeners to learn more about this important holiday and its connection to the American founding. He invites listeners to visit his Substack page to read his essay on Juneteenth and to find creative ways to celebrate this holiday with family and friends.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Richard Weaver was a twentieth century American scholar and rhetorician whose writings were praised by the likes of Russell Kirk, William F. Buckley, Willmoore Kendall, and Frank Meyer.  But nowadays Weaver is either derided as a racially charged Southern sympathizer or accused of preparing the way for the MAGA movement and authoritarianism.  If he's discussed at all. Joining Saving Elephants host Josh Lewis is Michael Lucchese, whose latest essay in Law and Liberty defends Weaver's contributions to the intellectual Right and argues his writings are still instructive for the conservative today.  This episode explores Weaver's actual views on the South and racism, his battles with the neo-gnostics of his day, his peculiar admiration for libertarians and Abraham Lincoln, and his greatest foe, William of Occam. Check out Michael's essay on Weaver, Turning the Clock Back Also, check out the book he edited compiling a collection of Russell Kirk's observations on America's founding, On America: How to Understand the Legacy of 1776   About Michael Lucchese From Pipe Creek Consulting Michael Lucchese is the founder and CEO of Pipe Creek Consulting, a communications firm based in Washington, D.C. He is also an associate editor of Law & Liberty and a contributing editor to Providence. He has been elected to membership in the Academy of Philosophy and Letters, the Ciceronian Society, and the Philadelphia Society, and serves on the board of the Institute for Christianity and Common Life, which publishes Mere Orthodoxy. Previously, he was a Krauthammer Fellow with the Tikvah Fund, a visiting scholar at Liberty Fund, and an aide to U.S. Senator Ben Sasse. His writing on national security, the conservative movement, and the American Founding has been published widely at outlets such as the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, National Review, and the Washington Examiner. He graduated from Hillsdale College with a B.A. in American Studies, and is an alumnus of the Hudson Institute Political Studies Program.

The Declaration famously says that we are “endowed by our Creator with certain inalienable rights.”... The American Founding was a creationist event, and precisely because it was a creationist event, we have enjoyed a truly solid foundation for the blessings of liberty. For more from Doug, subscribe to Canon+: https://canonplus.com/  

A special message from Jeremiah Regan. Get your tickets here: hillsdale.edu/film Revolutionary America tells the story of the American Founding, the greatest political achievement in history. The American colonists had developed a unique way of life as they practiced self-government for 150 years. In the struggles between the colonies and the mother country that followed the French and Indian War, Britain declared that Americans had no right to rule themselves. This went against everything the Americans knew. In response, our ancestors risked their “lives, fortunes, and sacred honor” to fight the War for Independence. Against all odds, they won, and in victory formed a stable, lasting republic.  This documentary, produced by Hillsdale Studios, narrated by Tom Selleck, and featuring interviews with prominent scholars and commentators, will help you see the Revolution through the eyes of the Americans who lived through it. With expert commentary, historical documents, compelling cinematography, and beautiful music, experience the Revolution like never before!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A special message from Jeremiah Regan. Get your tickets here: hillsdale.edu/film Revolutionary America tells the story of the American Founding, the greatest political achievement in history. The American colonists had developed a unique way of life as they practiced self-government for 150 years. In the struggles between the colonies and the mother country that followed the French and Indian War, Britain declared that Americans had no right to rule themselves. This went against everything the Americans knew. In response, our ancestors risked their “lives, fortunes, and sacred honor” to fight the War for Independence. Against all odds, they won, and in victory formed a stable, lasting republic.  This documentary, produced by Hillsdale Studios, narrated by Tom Selleck, and featuring interviews with prominent scholars and commentators, will help you see the Revolution through the eyes of the Americans who lived through it. With expert commentary, historical documents, compelling cinematography, and beautiful music, experience the Revolution like never before!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Something old, something new, something red white and blue." The American Book of Fables is Dr. Matthew Mehan and artist John Folley's latest children's book—or, rather, family book—presented for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. It offers a delightful education in civics, geography, history, and love of country by combining the American founding documents, short poetry, new and ancient fables, and whimsical oil paintings all mapped to the American landscape. This week on HeightsCast, Dr. Mehan shares the ideas behind the book's creation and what he hopes "littles, middles, and bigs" can all come to appreciate through a layered work like this. Chapters: 3:01 Picture books and the role of the poet 8:21 A family book for littles, middles, and bigs 13:18 What's in the book 18:19 Fables: training your "good mother wit" 23:46 Hugh Manatee and humanity 28:33 John Folley's illustrations 30:55 The American city 34:49 The current discourse on duty 36:47 Presenting founding documents to kids 41:37 Celebrate America250 as a family 48:26 Despair and hope 56:00 Book launch events 58:45 Excerpt: "American Morning" Links: The American Book of Fables by Matthew Mehan The Handsome Little Cygnet by Matthew Mehan Mr. Mehan's Mildly Amusing Mythical Mammals by Matthew Mehan National WWI Memorial, sculpture by Sabin Howard, installed 2024 Catholic Information Center Event with the Author, Washington, DC / livestream available – June 30, 2026 The American Book of Fables Website – Sophia Institute Press, for future book launch events Also on the Forum: Patriotism and Piety: Honoring Founders and Fathers featuring Dr. Matthew Mehan Teaching the American Founding after 250 Years featuring Dr. Matthew Spalding Children's Literature and Human Flourishing: The Handsome Little Cygnet featuring Dr. Matthew Mehan Why Our Politics Need Poetry: Mr. Mehan's Mythical Mammals featuring Dr. Matthew Mehan Imagination: The Raw Material for Thinking featuring Dr. Matthew Mehan

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_YKNDXS3NOY Podcast audio: In this episode of The Ayn Rand Institute Podcast, Sam Weaver and Ben Bayer discuss the significance of President Trump's efforts to construct new government monuments and put his name and face on federal buildings and documents. Topics Include: Trump's initiatives Why symbols matter Historical monument-building America's distinctive history How Trump compares Relation to Trump's policies Rand on monuments Trump's pursuit of prestige Public response Resources: “The Monument Builders” in The Virtue of Selfishness by Ayn Rand “Don't Let It Go” in Philosophy: Who Needs It by Ayn Rand “The Anti-Intellectuality of Donald Trump” by Onkar Ghate “One Small Step for Dictatorship” by Onkar Ghate This episode was recorded on May 8, 2026. Image credit: Kevin Dietsch / Staff / via Getty Images

This is The Briefing, a daily analysis of news and events from a Christian worldview.Part I (00:14 – 09:11)Rededicate 250: The Christian Worldview, the American Founding, and Current ControversyCue the Fireworks: America’s 250th opens with prayer and a fight by USA Today (Susan Page)Trump Administration Pushes Narrative of Christian Founding at Rally by The New York Times (Ruth Graham and Elizabeth Dias)Part II (09:11 – 10:58)Christianity and the The Enlightenment: Two Worldviews at the Founding of AmericaPart III (10:58 – 22:17)George Washington Praying is Scary? Secularists are Deeply Concerned over Christian imagery at Rededicate 250. Their Problem Is a Lot Older Than They ThinkHow an Image of Washington at Prayer Became a Touchstone for the Right by The New York Times (Jennifer Schuessler) Part IV (22:17 – 25:53)Coddled Students are Upset Someone Called them Coddled: NYU Students Attempt to Cancel Jonathan Haidt From Speaking at his own UniversityN.Y.U. Students Object to Speaker Who Calls Their Generation Coddled by The New York Times (Jeremy W. Peters and Matthew Haag)Pay Attention: Essential advice for the class of 2026 by The Atlantic (Jonathan Haidt)Sign up to receive The Briefing in your inbox every weekday morning.Follow Dr. Mohler:X | Instagram | Facebook | YouTubeFor more information on The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, go to sbts.edu.For more information on Boyce College, just go to BoyceCollege.com.To write Dr. Mohler or submit a question for The Mailbox, go here.

In this episode, Danielle Gill interviews American scholar William Federer about the American Founding — things you may not know about the Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and also what ultimately inspired them was their faith in Christ. LIKE & SUBSCRIBE for new YouTube episodes: https://youtube.com/@DDGShow?si=tZi5Z75O166RwXEX Watch full clips of the Danielle Gill Show here:https://rumble.com/c/DanielleDsouzaGill/videos?e9s=src_v1_cmd Find the full audio show wherever you get your podcasts:Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-danielle-gill-show/id1879812724 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3x6hMKFn1roWyzLzednxXL?si=nhZG0TauTOmkWBo_ieFhcw Follow Danielle Gill on all social platforms:X - https://x.com/danielledsouzag?s=21&t=EDXtjHM__JNF18166lWkTQInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/danielledsouzagillFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/14YvjS1Umni/?mibextid=wwXIfrTruth Social - https://truthsocial.com/@danielledsouzagillSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Abolition and Civil Rights movements are often presented as solutions to the failures of the American Founding, or replacements for its ideas. The relationship between the core ideas of America, as asserted in the Declaration of Independence and those of these two movements is complicated and has evolved over time. As we approach our […]

The Abolition and Civil Rights movements are often presented as solutions to the failures of the American Founding, or replacements for its ideas. The relationship between the core ideas of America, as asserted in the Declaration of Independence and those of these two movements is complicated and has evolved over time. As we approach our 250th birthday, let's take a look at how the Declaration is, in fact, the moral and intellectual foundation of both abolition and civil rights.Jeff is joined by Dr. Peter Myers, Professor of Political Science and expert in the politics of abolition and civil rights.Read Peter's book on Douglass: https://a.co/d/0b1TiSI3Host: Jeff SikkengaExecutive Producer: Jeremy GyptonOn Apple Podcasts: https://tr.ee/aTARALr9GxOn Spotify: https://tr.ee/09Ca21CCp-On iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-american-idea-119582945/

Algernon Sidney may be the most important liberty hero most Americans have never heard of.In this episode, Mike Leavitt and Joe Wolverton recover the story of the Christian republican thinker whose writings helped shape Jefferson, Adams, Madison, and the moral imagination of the American Founding.Sidney was not merely a theorist. He lived his principles, stood against tyranny, was falsely condemned for treason, and went to his death with astonishing calm. When the court tried to portray him as trembling and disordered, Sidney answered by offering his wrist:“Feel my pulse.”This conversation moves through forgotten books, forbidden ideas, natural law, Christian liberty, just war, the American Founders, and the terrifying power of a man who fears God more than kings.The episode also includes the story behind Mike's new song inspired by Sidney's final witness — a liberty ballad about courage, righteousness, and the soul's refusal to kneel before unlawful power.A conversation for anyone who believes liberty is not granted by rulers, justice is higher than law, and truth is worth suffering for.

Kathleen O’Toole, associate vice president for K-12 Education at Hillsdale College, is joined by Charles R. Kesler to discuss the Declaration of Independence and the legacy of the American Founding. Charles R. Kesler is editor of the Claremont Review of Books and professor of government at Claremont McKenna College. Learn more: https://k12.hillsdale.edu/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How have we allowed such a daring story as the American founding to become so flat? A history lesson so simple, tidy, and inevitable that it can be covered in one day's class? Dr. Matthew Spalding, dean of Hillsdale's Van Andel Graduate School of Government, wants to revive the living story of the American founding—and the Declaration of Independence, in particular. Calling it our nation's "epic poem," he sees in this document as a layered poetic, philosophical, and practical work of the American Mind. This week on HeightsCast, Dr. Spalding invites educators (and everyday citizens) to understand our nation's founding as so much more than just "an Enlightenment experiment." Chapters: 00:03:04 "The American Mind" in 1776 00:08:36 A better definition of patriotism 00:10:57 Declaration of Independence: our epic poem 00:14:43 How and why we teach history 00:16:36 Founding influences: more than the Enlightenment 00:21:46 The American synthesis 00:26:40 "Pursuit of happiness" in context 00:29:22 Why the founding narrative is mistold 00:38:06 New surprises in old studies 00:41:32 Finding common ground today Links: Dr. Matthew Spalding, Dean of the Van Andel Graduate School of Government, Hillsdale College The Making of the American Mind: The Story of Our Declaration of Independence by Matthew Spalding We Still Hold These Truths: Rediscovering Our Principles, Reclaiming Our Future by Matthew Spalding The Founders' Almanac: A Practical Guide to the Notable Events, Greatest Leaders, and Most Eloquent Words of the American Founding by Matthew Spalding Also on the Forum: On the Importance of History, Part I featuring Dr. Matthew Spalding Why Arguments Make History by Mark Grannis Keeping the Story in History by Mark Grannis Featured Opportunities: Parents' Conference at The Heights School (April 25, 2026) Teaching Essentials Workshop at The Heights School (June 22-26, 2026)

“Washington and Hamilton were governed by Willing.” — John Adams, 1813Thomas Willing voted against the Declaration of Independence. He was the wealthiest man in Philadelphia, the largest merchant trader in North America, an Anglican slave trader printing money. So he saw little reason to declare independence from Britain. Especially since the renegades — the poor Scots-Irish Presbyterians flooding into the country, the MAGA people of their day — had no love of wealthy aristocrats like himself. And then Willing did something that took everyone, even perhaps himself, by surprise: he financed the very revolution he'd voted against.In The Banker Who Made America, the financial historian Richard Vague tells a story that reframes the Founding. After Bunker Hill, Willing financed the smuggling of gunpowder via the Caribbean at a critical moment in the struggle against the British. He and his partner Robert Morris became the principal suppliers of finance and other essential materiel for the revolution. When the Continental Currency collapsed in inflationary chaos, it was Willing's bank that financed the second half of the war. The purpose of America's first bank, like the Bank of England before it, was to fund war. Without it, there would have been no successful revolution.But the real revelation in the Willing story is political. Pennsylvania radicals created the most democratic constitution in American history — an annually elected lower house, neither an upper house nor a governor with veto power. Willing and his fellow financial elites like George Washington and Alexander Hamilton hated this form of people's democracy. So when they showed up in 1787 to write the US Constitution, they'd learned their lesson: too much democracy is dangerous to the wealthy. The result — an unelected Senate, an unelected president, judges appointed for life — was, as Vague puts it, “a counterrevolution against democracy.” Even Thomas Paine ended up on Willing's payroll. This Philadelphia story became the American story. Follow the money. Five Takeaways•       Thomas Willing Voted Against Independence — Then Financed It: The wealthiest man in Philadelphia, the largest merchant trader in North America, an Anglican coastal elite making money hand over fist. He voted against the Declaration of Independence on July 2, 1776. Then he smuggled gunpowder through the Caribbean, funded the Continental Army, and created America's first bank to finance the back half of the war. John Adams wrote that Washington and Hamilton were “governed by Willing.” Nobody knows his name.•       The Constitution Was a Counterrevolution Against Democracy: Pennsylvania radicals created the most democratic constitution in American history — annually elected lower house, no upper house, no governor with veto power. Willing and the financial elites clawed it back. The 1787 US Constitution gave America an unelected Senate, an unelected president, and judges appointed for life. Vague calls it a counterrevolution. The tension between money and democracy has never stopped shaping American politics.•       Even Thomas Paine Ended Up on Willing's Payroll: The great radical pamphleteer, author of Common Sense, defender of the rights of man — working for the financial elite he should have loathed. Man's gotta eat. It tells you everything about the relationship between money and idealism in the American founding.•       The Revolution Wasn't About High Taxes: Americans' tax burden was lighter than Britain's. The real causes were financial: George Washington wanted to speculate on land west of the Appalachians. Willing wanted to start a bank. The British prevented both. The revolution was capitalism demanding permission to operate. Follow the money, Vague argues, and most history that's written without its financial dimension is incomplete.•       Some Things Never Change: The purpose of America's first bank was to fund war. The Bank of England was created for the same reason in 1694. The Pentagon is seeking $200 billion for Iran as we speak. American debt has grown to $39 trillion. Willing was the only person ever to turn down the US government for a loan — and he did it twice. We could use a Willing now. About the GuestRichard Vague is a businessman, banker, and commentator on economics. He is the former Secretary of Banking and Securities for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. His books include The Banker Who Made America (Polity, 2026), The Case for a Debt Jubilee, and The Paradox of Debt.References:•       The Banker Who Made America by Richard Vague (Polity, 2026) — the book under discussion.•       Adam Gopnik, “Who Bankrolled the American Revolution?” — The New Yorker review referenced in the conversation.•       Episode 2842: Symbolic Capitalism vs. Symbolic Democracy — yesterday's TWTW on whether capitalism permits democracy or the reverse. Willing is the proof.•       Philadelphia Citizen excerpt — an excerpt from the book covering Willing's vote against independence.About Keen On AmericaNobody asks more awkward questions than the Anglo-American writer and filmmaker Andrew Keen. In Keen On America, Andrew brings his pointed Transatlantic wit to making sense of the United States — hosting daily interviews about the history and future of this now venerable Republic. With nearly 2,800 episodes since the show launched on TechCrunch in 2010, Keen On America is the most prolific intellectual interview show in the history of podcasting.WebsiteSubstackYouTubeApple PodcastsSpotify Chapters: 

When we think of the American Revolution, we usually consider the ideas and animated the patriots and those leaders who organized and directed the war. Largely forgotten in all of this is a simple question: how was it all financed? And who did it?Thomas Willing, one of the most prominent merchants of the Middle Colonies, was at the forefront of solving the logistical and financial problems that plagued the American cause from the outset. Why, then, is he overlooked in all mainstream histories?Jeff meets with author Richard Vague to discuss Willing's place in American Founding. You can get his book about Willing here: https://a.co/d/05py4B72Host: Jeff SikkengaExecutive Producer: Jeremy GyptonSubscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanideaHomepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/

Dr. Matthew Spalding, Dean of the Van Andel Graduate School of Government, sits down with WMAL radio host Larry O’Connor, to kick off their America 250 series. Drawing from Spalding’s new book, The Making of the American Mind: The Story of Our Declaration of Independence, they discuss the American Founding, the Declaration of Independence, and why both matter 250 years later. Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with Hillsdale in D.C. professors, co-hosted with WMAL radio host Larry O’Connor. Discover the historical and philosophical underpinnings of the Declaration of Independence, the American Revolution, American culture, and more. New episodes every other week! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Hillsdale College Online Courses Podcast, Jeremiah and Juan discuss the progressive view of government before introducing Ronald J. Pestritto. The United States Constitution was designed to secure the natural rights proclaimed in the Declaration of Independence. Signed by Constitutional Convention delegates on September 17, 1787—Constitution Day—it was ratified by the American people and remains the most enduring and successful constitution in history. In this twelve-lecture course, students will examine the political theory of the American Founding and subsequent challenges to that theory throughout American history. Topics covered in this course include: the natural rights theory of the Founding, the meaning of the Declaration and the Constitution, the crisis of the Civil War, the Progressive rejection of the Founding, and the nature and form of modern liberalism. Progressives rejected the timeless principles of the American Founding and instead argued that the ends of government ought to be relative to historical circumstances. They viewed the Constitution as a “living” document, which could be transformed to meet the exigencies of the modern age.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Hillsdale College Online Courses Podcast, Jeremiah and Juan discuss the progressive view of government before introducing Ronald J. Pestritto. The United States Constitution was designed to secure the natural rights proclaimed in the Declaration of Independence. Signed by Constitutional Convention delegates on September 17, 1787—Constitution Day—it was ratified by the American people and remains the most enduring and successful constitution in history. In this twelve-lecture course, students will examine the political theory of the American Founding and subsequent challenges to that theory throughout American history. Topics covered in this course include: the natural rights theory of the Founding, the meaning of the Declaration and the Constitution, the crisis of the Civil War, the Progressive rejection of the Founding, and the nature and form of modern liberalism. Progressives rejected the timeless principles of the American Founding and instead argued that the ends of government ought to be relative to historical circumstances. They viewed the Constitution as a “living” document, which could be transformed to meet the exigencies of the modern age.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

James Madison was one of the two primary authors of The Federalist. What ideas did he promote through his essays? Where did he disagree with the points he argued? As we consider the American Founding and try to understand how the Founders turned goals into ideas in systems, we examine Madison's contributions to The Federalist […]

James Madison was one of the two primary authors of The Federalist. What ideas did he promote through his essays? Where did he disagree with the points he argued? As we consider the American Founding and try to understand how the Founders turned goals into ideas in systems, we examine Madison's contributions to The Federalist and what they meant over 200 years ago, and what we can learn from them now.Host: Jeff SikkengaExecutive Producer: Jeremy GyptonSubscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanideaHomepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/

On this episode of The Hillsdale College Online Courses Podcast, Jeremiah and Juan discuss executive authority and secession before introducing Kevin Portteus. The United States Constitution was designed to secure the natural rights proclaimed in the Declaration of Independence. Signed by Constitutional Convention delegates on September 17, 1787—Constitution Day—it was ratified by the American people and remains the most enduring and successful constitution in history. In this twelve-lecture course, students will examine the political theory of the American Founding and subsequent challenges to that theory throughout American history. Topics covered in this course include: the natural rights theory of the Founding, the meaning of the Declaration and the Constitution, the crisis of the Civil War, the Progressive rejection of the Founding, and the nature and form of modern liberalism. The South’s justification for secession was based on an erroneous reading of the Constitution. Whereas the South claimed a legal right to secede, Lincoln opposed what he called an illegal insurrection and sought to secure a “new birth of freedom” in America.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Hillsdale College Online Courses Podcast, Jeremiah and Juan discuss executive authority and secession before introducing Kevin Portteus. The United States Constitution was designed to secure the natural rights proclaimed in the Declaration of Independence. Signed by Constitutional Convention delegates on September 17, 1787—Constitution Day—it was ratified by the American people and remains the most enduring and successful constitution in history. In this twelve-lecture course, students will examine the political theory of the American Founding and subsequent challenges to that theory throughout American history. Topics covered in this course include: the natural rights theory of the Founding, the meaning of the Declaration and the Constitution, the crisis of the Civil War, the Progressive rejection of the Founding, and the nature and form of modern liberalism. The South’s justification for secession was based on an erroneous reading of the Constitution. Whereas the South claimed a legal right to secede, Lincoln opposed what he called an illegal insurrection and sought to secure a “new birth of freedom” in America.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Hillsdale College Online Courses Podcast, Jeremiah and Juan discuss whether or not the American Founding supported slavery before introducing Kevin Portteus. The United States Constitution was designed to secure the natural rights proclaimed in the Declaration of Independence. Signed by Constitutional Convention delegates on September 17, 1787—Constitution Day—it was ratified by the American people and remains the most enduring and successful constitution in history. In this twelve-lecture course, students will examine the political theory of the American Founding and subsequent challenges to that theory throughout American history. Topics covered in this course include: the natural rights theory of the Founding, the meaning of the Declaration and the Constitution, the crisis of the Civil War, the Progressive rejection of the Founding, and the nature and form of modern liberalism. Contrary to the Founders’ guiding principle of equality and their hopes for eventual abolition, slavery not only survived but spread and became entrenched in the South. Subsequently, a new ideology arose in defense of slavery, which rejected the principles of the Founding and fueled the sectional crisis that led to the Civil War.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Hillsdale College Online Courses Podcast, Jeremiah and Juan discuss whether or not the American Founding supported slavery before introducing Kevin Portteus. The United States Constitution was designed to secure the natural rights proclaimed in the Declaration of Independence. Signed by Constitutional Convention delegates on September 17, 1787—Constitution Day—it was ratified by the American people and remains the most enduring and successful constitution in history. In this twelve-lecture course, students will examine the political theory of the American Founding and subsequent challenges to that theory throughout American history. Topics covered in this course include: the natural rights theory of the Founding, the meaning of the Declaration and the Constitution, the crisis of the Civil War, the Progressive rejection of the Founding, and the nature and form of modern liberalism. Contrary to the Founders’ guiding principle of equality and their hopes for eventual abolition, slavery not only survived but spread and became entrenched in the South. Subsequently, a new ideology arose in defense of slavery, which rejected the principles of the Founding and fueled the sectional crisis that led to the Civil War.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Hillsdale College Online Courses Podcast, Jeremiah and Juan discuss whether or not the government should legislate morality before introducing Thomas West. The United States Constitution was designed to secure the natural rights proclaimed in the Declaration of Independence. Signed by Constitutional Convention delegates on September 17, 1787—Constitution Day—it was ratified by the American people and remains the most enduring and successful constitution in history. In this twelve-lecture course, students will examine the political theory of the American Founding and subsequent challenges to that theory throughout American history. Topics covered in this course include: the natural rights theory of the Founding, the meaning of the Declaration and the Constitution, the crisis of the Civil War, the Progressive rejection of the Founding, and the nature and form of modern liberalism. While the first purpose of government is to protect citizens from foreign and domestic threats, it must also undertake other essential actions in order to secure natural rights. These include the protection of property rights, the defense of religious liberty, and the promotion of the moral character necessary to sustain free government.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Hillsdale College Online Courses Podcast, Jeremiah and Juan discuss whether or not the government should legislate morality before introducing Thomas West. The United States Constitution was designed to secure the natural rights proclaimed in the Declaration of Independence. Signed by Constitutional Convention delegates on September 17, 1787—Constitution Day—it was ratified by the American people and remains the most enduring and successful constitution in history. In this twelve-lecture course, students will examine the political theory of the American Founding and subsequent challenges to that theory throughout American history. Topics covered in this course include: the natural rights theory of the Founding, the meaning of the Declaration and the Constitution, the crisis of the Civil War, the Progressive rejection of the Founding, and the nature and form of modern liberalism. While the first purpose of government is to protect citizens from foreign and domestic threats, it must also undertake other essential actions in order to secure natural rights. These include the protection of property rights, the defense of religious liberty, and the promotion of the moral character necessary to sustain free government.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peter Berkowitz of the Hoover Institution critiques Steven Miller's might makes right assertion regarding the Madurooperation, contrasting this worldview with American founding principles of liberty and rights.1963

In celebration of Black History Month, scholars Lucas Morel and Melvin Rogers join to discuss how African American leaders and citizens, such as Prince Hall, Frederick Douglass, Ida B. Wells, and Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. have invoked the ideas and principles of the Declaration of Independence throughout American history to push for a more free and equal America. Thomas Donnelly, chief scholar of the National Constitution Center, moderates.  This conversation was originally streamed live as part of the NCC's America's Town Hall series on February 2, 2026.  Resources  National Constitution Center, "The Declaration Across History" Primary Sources  Lucas Morel, Lincoln and the American Founding  Melvin Rogers, The Darkened Light of Faith: Race, Democracy, and Freedom in African American Political Thought  Stay Connected and Learn More  Questions or comments about the show? Email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠podcast@constitutioncenter.org ⁠⁠⁠⁠  Continue the conversation by following us on social media @ConstitutionCtr    Explore the ⁠⁠⁠⁠America at 250 Civic Toolkit⁠⁠⁠⁠   Explore ⁠⁠⁠⁠Pursuit: The Founders' Guide to Happiness⁠⁠⁠⁠   ⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive Constitution Weekly, our email roundup of constitutional news and debate   Follow, rate, and review wherever you listen   Join us for an upcoming ⁠⁠⁠⁠live program⁠⁠⁠⁠ or watch recordings on ⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠   Support our important work ⁠⁠⁠⁠Donate 

On this episode of The Hillsdale College Online Courses Podcast, Jeremiah and Juan discuss the difference between democracy and republicanism before introducing Ronald J. Pestritto. The United States Constitution was designed to secure the natural rights proclaimed in the Declaration of Independence. Signed by Constitutional Convention delegates on September 17, 1787—Constitution Day—it was ratified by the American people and remains the most enduring and successful constitution in history. In this twelve-lecture course, students will examine the political theory of the American Founding and subsequent challenges to that theory throughout American history. Topics covered in this course include: the natural rights theory of the Founding, the meaning of the Declaration and the Constitution, the crisis of the Civil War, the Progressive rejection of the Founding, and the nature and form of modern liberalism. The Framers understood that the “latent causes of faction . . . are sown in the nature of man.” Consequently, the Constitution establishes a number of institutional mechanisms such as representation and separation of powers to control the effects of faction. In so doing, the Constitution improved upon previous models of republican government.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Hillsdale College Online Courses Podcast, Jeremiah and Juan discuss the difference between democracy and republicanism before introducing Ronald J. Pestritto. The United States Constitution was designed to secure the natural rights proclaimed in the Declaration of Independence. Signed by Constitutional Convention delegates on September 17, 1787—Constitution Day—it was ratified by the American people and remains the most enduring and successful constitution in history. In this twelve-lecture course, students will examine the political theory of the American Founding and subsequent challenges to that theory throughout American history. Topics covered in this course include: the natural rights theory of the Founding, the meaning of the Declaration and the Constitution, the crisis of the Civil War, the Progressive rejection of the Founding, and the nature and form of modern liberalism. The Framers understood that the “latent causes of faction . . . are sown in the nature of man.” Consequently, the Constitution establishes a number of institutional mechanisms such as representation and separation of powers to control the effects of faction. In so doing, the Constitution improved upon previous models of republican government.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's episode of The Right Side with Doug Billings, Doug cuts through the noise surrounding government shutdowns, criminal referrals, and viral political claims to focus on something deeper: standards.What does a partial government shutdown actually mean — and why did the Founders design the system to slow power instead of accelerate it? What is a criminal referral, what it isn't, and why a Republic never confuses a request for review with a verdict.Doug introduces a practical, citizen-level framework for separating allegations from evidence, explains how investigative “files” really work, and walks listeners through the Evidence Ladder — from rumor to conviction.This is a calm, civic conversation about proof, due process, and why a free society survives not on volume, pressure, or outrage — but on standards that protect both the innocent and the truly wronged.If you believe truth should come before trends and justice should come before the crowd, this episode is for you.Support the show

On this episode of The Hillsdale College Online Courses Podcast, Jeremiah and Juan discuss how The Federalist influenced the Constitutional Convention before introducing Ronald J. Pestritto. The United States Constitution was designed to secure the natural rights proclaimed in the Declaration of Independence. Signed by Constitutional Convention delegates on September 17, 1787—Constitution Day—it was ratified by the American people and remains the most enduring and successful constitution in history. In this twelve-lecture course, students will examine the political theory of the American Founding and subsequent challenges to that theory throughout American history. Topics covered in this course include: the natural rights theory of the Founding, the meaning of the Declaration and the Constitution, the crisis of the Civil War, the Progressive rejection of the Founding, and the nature and form of modern liberalism. The Articles of Confederation was America’s first attempt at establishing a national union. However, in many of the states, unchecked legislative majorities frequently trampled on the natural rights of minorities and disregarded the nearly powerless federal government. This experience of unstable and unjust government led to calls for a firmer union.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Right is arguably more fractured than ever before. Why is that, how did we get to this point, and what should we do about it? Nick sits down with Michael Knowles to ask him: What Should the Right Want? SPONSOR: Mando Staying fresh can be a challenge. That's why you need to hear about Mando Deodorant. From your pits to, well, everywhere else, Mando is high performance odor control AND sweat control that actually lasts. Get 20% off + free shipping with code NICK at https://shopmando.com/ ----- GET YOUR MERCH HERE: https://shop.nickjfreitas.com/ BECOME A MEMBER OF THE IC: https://NickJFreitas.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/nickjfreitas/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NickFreitasVA Twitter: https://twitter.com/NickJFreitas YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Nickjfreitas TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nickfreitas3.0 00:00:00 Intro 00:01:23 The Divide on the Right 00:03:39 Where Does Michael Knowles Fall on the Right? 00:08:22 Was the American Revolution a Liberal Project? 00:15:10 The American Founding has been Redefined by the Left 00:21:55 Liberalism and Individualism 00:27:15 What Should We be Working Towards? 00:34:20 Religion and Politics 00:44:11 How Michael Responds to Objections 00:49:16 What is the Proper Role of Government? 01:00:29 The Cultural Foundation of America 01:02:47 What Should the Right Want?

Extreme inequality and democratic decline aren't separate crises—they're the same crisis. This week, Osita Nwanevu joins Paul and Goldy to explain how America's constitutional design, corporate power, and decades of upward redistribution have eroded both political and economic freedom. He outlines what real democratic governance would mean inside government and at work, why the concentration of wealth threatens stability, and how a long-term movement for a more representative system could finally deliver the policies most Americans want. Osita Nwanevu is a journalist and political writer whose work focuses on democracy, governance, and the intersection of politics and power in America. His reporting and essays have appeared in The New Republic, The New Yorker, Slate, and The New York Times. He is the author of The Right of the People, a sweeping examination of why American democracy is faltering and what it would take to build a more just, inclusive, and genuinely democratic society. Further reading:  The Right of the People: Democracy and the Case for a New  American Founding By the Workers, for the Workers: Building Economic Democracy https://www.ositanwanevu.com/ Website: http://pitchforkeconomics.com Instagram: @pitchforkeconomics Threads: pitchforkeconomics Bluesky: @pitchforkeconomics.bsky.social Twitter: @PitchforkEcon, @NickHanauer, @civicaction YouTube: @pitchforkeconomics LinkedIn: Pitchfork Economics Substack: The Pitch