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Americanism: Independence and the Declaration of Independence

declaration

As we celebrate and honor our beloved nation's Independence Day, in these dire times, we should talk about the Declaration of Independence with our families. This document is a treasure of incalculable value, America's greatest document along with the Constitution. The Declaration was our nation's call for freedom; and, we must understand in specific and personal terms how and why our freedoms are being infringed upon us. The Declaration makes it clear that it is our "duty" to "throw off such government" when it displays designs to tyranny and authoritarianism. We must all do our part in small and large measure. We not only have a right to be free, but it comes with duty. We must have the courage to defend our God given freedom and unalienable rights, such as the freedom to have our legal vote count.

The 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence were courageous men; they all risked their lives and property. They knew what would happen if they were caught by the enemy or exposed as traitors. They delayed signing the Declaration until they could get their affairs in order, believing they would lose their life after signing. On July 4, 1776, John Hancock signed the handwritten draft, by the very brave Thomas Jefferson, after the Continental Congress had voted for independence. It was several months before all had signed. John Hart, a New Jersey delegate and farmer, for example, was chased from his dying wife's bedside, hunted down by the British, wandered the countryside in hiding, and his home was burned down. Richard Stockton, a New Jersey delegate, was kidnapped from his home, his home and farm was plundered, and he was imprisoned under brutal conditions and died shortly after his release.

Nine of the signers fought and died in the American Revolution and others lost their sons who were either captured or killed while in the Continental Army. Twelve served as combat commanders and five were captured and imprisoned. Many lost their fortunes. They are an inspiration for us the American people. We must loyally and firmly stand for what they did for us.

The final words in the Declaration before the signatures are: "And for the support of this Declaration with firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our Sacred Honor." We pray for these great men.

"When government fears the people, there is liberty. When the people fear the government, there is tyranny."

Thomas Jefferson
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