the Patriot Papers
the Patriot Papers No. 4
by KJ Kaufman on Mar.23, 2010, under the Patriot Papers
On the Duty of Independence
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed… –Thomas Jefferson “Declaration of Independence” 1776
the Patriot Papers No. 3
by KJ Kaufman on Jan.20, 2010, under the Patriot Papers
On Federalism and Freedom
Yes, we did produce a near-perfect republic. But will they keep it? Or will they, in the enjoyment of plenty, lose the memory of freedom? Material abundance without character is the path of destruction.–Thomas Jefferson “Letters to John Adams and Col. Charles Clancy”If a Nation expects to be ignorant and free in a state of civilization, it expects what never was and never will be….If we are to guard against ignorance and remain free, it is the responsibility of every American to be informed.
the Patriot Papers No. 2
by KJ Kaufman on Jan.15, 2010, under the Patriot Papers
The Lesson of our Patriot Father
It should be the highest ambition of every American to extend his views beyond himself, and to bear in mind that his conduct will not only affect himself, his country, and his immediate posterity, but that its influence may be co-extensive with the world and stamp political happiness or misery on ages yet unborn…The virtue, moderation, and patriotism which marked the steps of the American people in framing, adopting and thus far carrying into effect our present system of government has excited the admiration of nations; and it only now remains for us to act up to those principles which should characterize a free and enlightened people… –George Washington 1791
the Patriot Papers No. 1
by KJ Kaufman on Jan.13, 2010, under the Patriot Papers
Prologue
Perhaps the sentiments contained in the following pages, are not yet sufficiently fashionable to procure them general favor; a long habit of not thinking a thing wrong, gives it a superficial appearance of being right, and raises at first a formidable outcry in defense of custom. But tumult soon subsides. Time makes more converts than reason. –Thomas Paine “Common Sense” 1776
