On the Road to Independence

Today, on the road to independence looks all the way back to the 13th century, June 15, 1215. . .

You must agree this is definitely a look into the past, way back into the past, 797 years into the past! For it was on this day in the year 1215 that the Magna Carta was sealed. So, I am sure you are thinking, "What on earth would this event have to do with America's quest for independence in the 18th century?"

Are you ready to step back in time and find the connection?

Begin your footsteps. . .

’Twas King John who ruled the day
Turmoil and revolt led the way. . .

. . .the way to peace feudal rights proclaimed
Privileges nation’s laws must maintain

Failure after failure plagued with abuse
Lay the foundation for a king's truce. . .

. . .a truce to end pressures and strife

All brought about under a king's knife

So King John put his seal
On the Magna Carta, thus the deal. . .

. . .the deal of peace not long to remain
But reissued thrice under its name

This great charter, oppressor's demise
Framed its words stalwart and wise. . .

. . .wise in its statutes to set men free

Continues a symbol of liberty

Make the connection. . .

Generations of Englishmen would celebrate the Magna Carta as a symbol of freedom from oppression. Thus, the foundation was laid for the Founding Fathers of the United States of America, who in 1776 looked to the charter as a historical precedent for asserting their liberty from the English crown. This charter influenced early settlers in New England and inspired later constitutional documents, including the United States Constitution.

June 15
This Day in History. Magna Carta sealed plus more. . .