By Brielle Zeiler
Ironwood City Reporter
Yesterday’s guest speaker, Aubrey Prestwich, highlighted various aspects of the American revolutionary era. She discussed the significance of the Declaration of Independence, highlighted the complexity of the United States Constitution, and explained the importance of the Bill of Rights. Her presentation reminded me of how these documents still affect the lives of Americans today.
To begin, the United States Constitution remains a major guide to the framework of the country. By dividing the government into the legislative, judicial, and executive branches, the constitution prevents any one department from gaining too much power.
In the past, this was done to prevent replicating a government like Great Britain’s, nowadays it serves a similar purpose despite its modernization. It divides the powers of government with checks and balances, preventing tyranny, while also splitting up power.
In addition, the Declaration of Independence continues to impact the everyday lives of citizens through its establishment of natural rights.
Following the enlightenment era, America’s founding fathers were keen on devoting autonomy not only to the country itself, but also the citizens within it.
While at the time this was motivated by the excessive taxing and the removal of salutary neglect from Great Britain, the modern era is still heavily impacted by this establishment. While the declaration does not create laws, its principles of natural rights have influenced movements from civil rights, equality, and democracy since its publication.
Overall, it is beyond clear that our country’s foundational documents play a much larger role in our lives than meets the eye. Whether it’s through our security in our natural rights or our system of checks and balances within our government, the impact of the foundational documents is undeniable.