We now know that the Declaration of Independence was written primarily by Jefferson, while sitting in the City Tavern in Philadelphia drinking pints of madeira. We also know that several others made alterations to his manuscript, primarily John Adams and Benjamin Franklin, and we know that Jefferson was not at all happy with the changes.
Now, if you would care to turn your attention again to the Declaration of Independence, please observe that Jefferson's ideas about the future of the proto-American states did not come true.
He imagined each state becoming an independent nation.
>>That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do.<<
He certainly imagined that his beloved Virginia would become a sovereign nation.
He took no part in the Continental Congress nor did he take any direct role in framing of the Constitution.
Another of Jefferson's bright ideas in the Declaration of Independence also did not come true - the idea that people could throw off their government when it became intolerable -- tell that to the erstwhile Confederate States of America.
>>That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.<<
Revolutions come and go, but how many revolutions have been followed by a stable form of government that secures the blessings of liberty for all (eventually, but we got there)?
The beauty of the American Constitution is that it is literally impossible to elect a government that can dismantle democracy, due process, and the rule of law.
Germany, Algeria, and others, take note. |
