We cite only a tiny fraction of the immense volume of literature and commentary about America’s founding principles, with the purpose of inspiring you to learn more.

 

• Lawrence Reed, “America’s Republic: How the Great Experiment Came About (and How We Keep It).” 

• Thomas Jefferson, Letter to William Johnson (1823) (excerpt prepared by Stephen Hicks).

• Roger Pilon, On the Moral Foundations of America.

• Kerry McDonald, “Why You Should Read ‘What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?’ to Your Kids.”​

• Frederick Douglass, “Letter to His Former Master.” (excerpt prepared by Stephen Hicks).

• Barry Brownstein, “What Thomas Jefferson Meant by ‘The Pursuit of Happiness.’"​

• Lawrence Reed, “Yes, America's Birthday Deserves to be Celebrated."