Celebrating Independence Day: Embracing Popular Sovereignty

Potomac Tea Party

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As we gather to celebrate Independence Day on July 4th, 2024, it is crucial to reflect on the revolutionary idea that has shaped our nation: popular sovereignty. This principle asserts that “We the People” are the ultimate source of authority, and the government derives its powers from our consent. Popular sovereignty emphasizes that the government works for us, not the other way around.

Understanding Popular Sovereignty

The term “popular sovereignty” might sound complex, but it simply means that the power resides with the people. In America, we are not subjects ruled by a monarch but sovereign citizens who call the shots. Our elected officials and government employees serve us, and if they fail in their duties, we have the power to vote them out.

 Happy 4th of July! 2024 marks their 15th annual celebration of this momentous day.

Celebrate by viewing their new video “Make Popular Sovereignty Great Again!”

The Legacy of Liberty

Our nation’s foundation rests on the recognition of unalienable rights—life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. These rights are not granted by the government but are inherent to every individual, coming from God Almighty, which is why they must not be infringed. This recognition sets America apart as a great constitutional republic. In our republic, the rule of law and individual rights are protected, ensuring that even political minorities are heard and respected.


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Republic vs. Democracy

It is essential to distinguish our republic from a pure democracy. While democracy can descend into mob rule, a republic safeguards individual rights through a constitution and representative government. This structure has allowed our nation to endure and thrive for over 235 years, providing us with self-rule and protecting our liberties.

The Responsibility of Citizenship

Popular sovereignty comes with responsibilities. As citizens, we must engage in our civic duties—being informed, voting, running for office, and holding our leaders accountable. Our republic depends on active and virtuous citizens. History shows that when citizens become complacent or corrupt, they lose their ability to self-govern, leading to authoritarian rule.

Lessons from History

The fall of Rome serves as a cautionary tale. Corruption and self-interest led Romans to surrender their republic to dictators. We must heed this lesson and ensure that our republic remains strong by maintaining civic virtue and engagement.

A Call to Action

As we celebrate this Independence Day, let us cherish our liberty and commit to preserving it. Be vigilant, informed, and active in your community. Remember, as Benjamin Franklin famously said, we have a republic—if we can keep it. Our freedom and sovereignty are precious gifts; it is our duty to safeguard them for future generations.

Conclusion

Enjoy the festivities, but never forget the significance of this day. Embrace your role as a sovereign citizen, and together, let us uphold the principles that make America the land of the free and the home of the brave. Happy Independence Day!

Attribution: For more on the importance of popular sovereignty and to view related content, visit the Potomac Tea Party’s website. Happy 4th of July! 2024 marks their 15th annual celebration of this momentous day. Celebrate by viewing their new video “Make Popular Sovereignty Great Again!” and explore their previous videos on free speech, the right to bear arms, and the pitfalls of a “living, breathing Constitution.” Don’t miss their Instant Graduate Degree in Political Science, which expresses the American Idea in one page.

 

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views the Virginia Christian Alliance

About the Author

Virginia Christian Alliance
The mission of the VIRGINIA CHRISTIAN ALLIANCE is to promote moral, social and scientific issues we face today from a Biblical point of view. In addition we will refute and oppose, not with hate, but with facts and humor, the secular cultural abuses that have overridden laws and standards of conduct of the past. We will encourage Christians to participate in these efforts through conferences, development of position papers, booklets and tracts, radio/TV spots, newspaper ads and articles and letters-to-the editor, web sites, newsletters and providing speakers for church and civic meetings.