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Interesting. But what des it mean to "pledge [our] lives and fortune and sacred honor?" It was written after the war started in April 1775. Do you think that any of the revolutionaries cxpected the king to abdicate as James Ii did?

See my Teaching All Men are Created Equal."The Declaration was written partly to recruit troops. See my substack at historyideasandlessons.substack.com

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I think you are right, Jeff. Some hoped for a Glorious Revolution but most knew there would be a civil war, reminiscent of the English Civil War. I agree with your piece––it was in part to rally troops. Amazing thing, that American Revolution. Best, Eli

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Yes. The Declaration was was a radical view of Locke's treatise. The revolution was impelled by natural rights. The colonists sought it actively. Jefferson was, however a kind of pacifist in regard to the conflict with Britain and France. He refused to fight and imposed the embargo instead.

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Jul 4, 2023Liked by Eli Merritt

Such an inspiring piece and reminder on this day. Democracy is a work in progress and these past recent years have shown us that we all must remain vigilant and stand for the values of equality, compassion, and working hard to make a better society.

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Yes, John. Working very hard. Thank you. I am so glad you liked the piece. Wow, Amanda Gorman. Amazing poem.

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