July 4, 1776, has proven to be one of the most significant days in human history. 56 men with different lifestyles, backgrounds, and philosophies came together to united on one idea – freedom. The actions of these men spread the fire of liberty throughout the colonies, which were already waging their own battles against England. But these men united 13 separate colonies into one nation wich would not be dictated to for the benefit of an unrepresentative government. Patrick Henry stated that “the distinctions between Virginians, Pennsylvanians, New Yorkers, and New Englanders are no more. I am not a Virginian but an America.” He captured a sentiment that was now felt throughout the to-be nation.

Action is the key word here. Rather than disgruntled delegates gathering in a room to complain of the hardships of taxation, these men put those grievances to paper. They laid out an argument for independence using natural law and “self-evident truths.” They declared it was their right and duty to throw off the oppressive government, followed by a listing of the “long train of abuses and usurpations” committed by King George III.

These were the words and actions of leaders. Men who knew that rhetoric on human rights was not enough, but that freedom from oppression would take deliberate action. This nation was blessed with the right men of action at exactly the right time – men like Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Samuel Adams, Patrick Henry, Benjamin Franklin and George Washington. They live on today as legendary and mythical; men who led.

Without their boldness and action, the world would never know the greatest experiment in government and liberty – the United States. We as a nation have an incredible example to follow and to honor. The actions on July 4th inspire us to continue acting for the cause of liberty and uphold the freedoms provided by thousands between today and the original Independence Day.

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