Liberty: The American Revolution

Key Themes

• The formation of government post-revolution
• Preservation of liberty and avoiding dictatorship
• The struggle between state and federal power

Historical Context

• 1783: Post-revolution America consisted of 13 states in a loose federation.
  • Power rested with the states, not the Continental Congress.
  • No national court system or president.

Washington's Role

• Washington resigned his commission, refusing monarchy.
• He settled in Mount Vernon, expecting to retire from public life.

Challenges of Unification

• States were not united; each functioned independently.
• 1783-1787: Debate over forming a single nation versus multiple confederations.

Ideological Shifts

• Post-war, Americans experienced a shift from subjects to citizens.
• Decline of servitude and rise of egalitarianism.
• Struggle between debtors and creditors leading to rebellion (e.g., Shays' Rebellion).

The Confederation's Weakness

• The central government was ineffective, unable to address international and economic issues.
• Hamilton and others saw the need for a stronger federal structure.

Constitutional Convention (1787)

• Held in Philadelphia to address the failures of the Articles of Confederation.
• James Madison played a crucial role, advocating for a strong central government.
• Delegates debated fiercely in secret.
• The resulting Constitution proposed a federal government with separate branches and checks and balances.

The Ratification Debate

• Federalists vs. Anti-Federalists.
  • Federalists: Advocated for strong central government.
  • Anti-Federalists: Feared centralized power and lack of individual rights.
• The lack of a Bill of Rights was a major contention point.

Adoption of the Constitution

• Ratified after extensive debate and assurances of a future Bill of Rights.
• Established the framework for the U.S. government.

The Bill of Rights

• Drafted by James Madison, addressing concerns about individual liberties.
• Has proven crucial in protecting rights of diverse groups over time.

Legacy of the American Revolution

• Established a government "by the people, for the people."
• Unlike later revolutions, succeeded in creating a lasting republic.
• Ideals of the revolution continue to influence American identity and governance.

Funding for 'Liberty'

• Sponsored by Wells Fargo, National Endowment for the Humanities, and other foundations.