American Ideals: Founding a Republic of Virtue

The United States is often thought of as a "young" nation. But in fact, it is the oldest continuing democracy in the world. What were the philosophies and social forces that made this country unique-that enabled it to become the first successfully self-governing republic in modern times? In this course, Professor Daniel N. Robinson explores the principles that guided the founding of the United States, the conditions that led to the break with Great Britain, and the creation of such founding documents as the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. This 12-lecture course deepens your understanding of fundamental ideas-the role of government, and human nature-that inspired American independence, and which continue to have a profound influence on American thought. What do we mean by "all men are created equal?" What is the significance of the phrase "the pursuit of happiness" in the Declaration of Independence? Why does it read "We the People" in the preamble to the Constitution? These lectures also provide insight into what historians call "the long conversation" in American society: questions that have been the focus of debate and controversy since the nation was born, including taxation, states' rights vs. federalism, and the Framers' original intent in drafting the Constitution, especially the first and second amendments.