Library Hour: The Declaration of Independence, America’s National Treasure

Award-winning historian Michael Auslin traces the remarkable journey of the Declaration of Independence – from its drafting in a Philadelphia boarding house to its present enshrinement as a revered founding relic. Each generation has found new meaning in its ideals; Abraham Lincoln and Jefferson Davis both claimed its legacy, while waves of immigrants embraced its commitment to freedom from tyranny.  Thomas Jefferson’s words have inspired an extraordinary range of causes – from civil rights leaders to groups opposing the U.S. government. As he hoped, the principles enshrined in the Declaration became a beacon to the world.  

As part of the America250 celebrations at the League, Founding Forward welcomes Michael Auslin, the Payson J. Treat Distinguished Research Fellow at the Hoover Institution, to celebrate how the Declaration was not just a call for freedom and equality but a statement of the principles that bind us together. As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, this discussion invites reflection on how the Declaration continues to shape our shared civic identity and the responsibilities of citizenship in a free society. 

This program will be hosted in-person at Union League Whitebrier. Registration is required. Copies of National Treasure: How the Declaration of Independence Made America will be available for purchase. 

Reception: 6:00pm
Program: 6:30pm
End of Program: 7:30pm 

Streaming: Unless requested otherwise by the speaker, Founding Forward programs are streamed via YouTube. Click here to find the livestream (live at 6:30pm the day of the event). Virtual viewing does not require registration.