Today on WMOX, we discussed the History Channel’s new show, Jefferson. One of the many interesting facts about the author of the Declaration of Independence was the three accomplishments he was proud of that he had placed on his tombstone. They are (1) The Declaration of Independence, (2) the Virginia Bill of Religious Freedom and (3) Founding of the University of Virginia.
The Virginia Bill of Religious Freedom is powerful and short. Its preamble is in the style of the Declaration and worth reading. I have provided a link or check out this short but powerful prose.
The letter declining an invitation to attend a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence is also very powerful. This phrase about the 4th is something we should all remember each year: “For ourselves, let the annual return of this day forever refresh our recollections of these rights, and an undiminished devotion to them.” For full text of the letter to Roger Weightman.
Be sure watch or DVR this show when it comes again on the History Channel. In the mean time checkout some the material the History Channel has pulled together on our most thoughtful Founder.
– The Professor
- No Related Posts