The Declaration of Independence is 247 years old this year, and it seems to reflect more graphically today what our forefathers experienced than ever before. It is a given that the men who signed the Declaration were literally putting their lives on the line when they decided to stand against King George, III.
Before our Founding Fathers signed the document I’m sure they reflected on what it would mean for them and their families: economic hardship, rejection by their neighbors, labeled as traitors, accused of believing lies and being full of non-sense, chastised for not “going along to just get along”, crazy for opposing the most powerful ruler and government in the world, etc.
When the document was written, there were 27 grievances enumerated which the men accused the King of violating. Among them are the following:
The Founders accused the king of sending in “Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures”, “imposing taxes on us without our consent”, “abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government”, “erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harass our people, and eat out their substance”, “dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people”, “obstructed the Administration of Justice”, “affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil power”, “imposing Taxes on us without our Consent”, “He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us”, etc.
Recognize these today? It was with these abuses in mind that the Articles of Confederation, and U.S. Constitution were ultimately written. But, before they could get to those they had to deal with an obstacle that was not only in their way but was now antagonized and coming to make them aware that he was still king.
Of the 56 signers of the Declaration, men of wealth and means, most every one died penniless or in great want.
Many lost family and friends, but ultimately won the affection and respect of generations of Americans.
This month while you’re enjoying time with family and friends, cooking out, boating or whatever, think on what freedom really costs. Somebody had to pay the price for freedom.
The price is now due again. Men and women who love freedom must once again be willing to stand up against those who want to take your freedom. Whether they be Communists or others rushing to take over. Will you stand as they did?
Michael Reed is Publisher of The Standard newspaper, print and online. You may find our videos available on Rumble. The bulk of TheStandardSC video media channel has been censored by dominant social media groups like YouTube. YouTube, owed by Alphabet (Google), removed and destroyed all of our video work without permission or remuneration. That has stopped all potential donations from our many supporters on that venue. If you want to continue to see independent thought and reports please “like”, comment, share with a friend, and donate to support The Standard on this page to assure the continued availability of news that is ignored too often by the dominant media.
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