Essential Wisdom of the Founding Fathers

Sink or swim, live or die, survive or perish, I am with my country from this day on. You may depend on it.

—John Adams

When the American colonies launched their unprecedented revolution that not only defeated the British Empire, but also founded the world’s first modern democracy, the fledgling nation was guided through its tumultuous creation by the forward-thinking leaders who became known as the Founding Fathers.

The Essential Wisdom of the Founding Fathers brings together hundreds of quotations from creators of the American experiment. Drawn from their private letters, speeches, books, essays, discourses, and declarations, the selections reveal and reflect the thoughts, philosophies, and deepest convictions of the Founding Fathers.

In this book:

Highlights

• George Washington implores his troops to keep fighting in the cause for liberty
• Alexander Hamilton champions the equal protection of the law for every citizen
• Thomas Jefferson warns of the dangers inherent in limiting the free press
• Benjamin Franklin rejoices at the return of peace after the ravages of war

The founders also exchange their passionately held views on such subjects as the sanctity of freedom; the supremacy of law; the dictates of justice; the meaning of patriotism; and the perils of politics. Still other excerpts reveal a more personal side of the patriots. John Adams longs for the company of his wife and children; Benjamin Franklin lovingly recalls his father’s penchant for good conversation; and George Washington shares keen insights into the nature of friendship.

A necessary book for turbulent times, The Essential Wisdom of the Founding Fathers is a thought-provoking and powerful reminder of the inspirational and unifying beliefs and core values of America’s founders.