Sources of American Freedom

Warner: American Revolution

What is Freedom?

nDictionary definition

nThe condition of being free of restraints

nLiberty of the person from slavery, oppression or incarceration

nPolitical independence; possession of civil rights

nExemption from unpleasant or onerous conditions

nThe capacity to exercise choice; free will

nFrankness; boldness…

nBut, what explains the special radiance and value attached by American culture to the idea of freedom?


	Last class we focused on the concept of commerce promoted by the Spectator #69…it involves the aggressive promotion of free trade, as non-coercive, of benefit to all, an the creator of wealth and benefits to all.
	This class we will view British culture as a group of sources for the practice of American Freedom;
	Dictionary definition: notice that the first four definitions have a negative dimension: they offer a NOT from restraints, slavery, oppression, incarceration, domination by a political agency, certain onerous conditions.
	Why is freedom important? It was one of the central values in the name of which the revolution was fought; …it continues to be one of the cardinal values the leaders use to describe and justify America.
	But, what is freedom?