In this inspiring presentation, members of the NFL recite the Declaration of Independence. 

Independence Day is coming up.  It's a special day, set aside to celebrate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.

This is a good time to read the Declaration and to talk to our children about what it means.  

IN CONGRESS, July 4, 1776.

The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America,

When in the Course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. — Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. 
To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.

(If you can't see the rest of the Declaration of Independence, click the tiny "Read More" link below.)

As we reflect on our heritage as Americans, this speech given by President Reagan about the importance of religion in America is especially meaningful.  

President Reagan taught that "politics and morality are inseparable, and as morality's foundation is religion, religion and politics are necessarily related.  We need religion as a guide."  

Today, perhaps more than ever before, our freedom of religion in America is in jeopardy.  When we understand the importance of religion in our history and heritage, it can give us the courage to defend religious freedom and protect its role in the public square.

Learn More

• Ronald Reagan on America's Heritage of Faith
  
• America's Greatness
  

Independence Day is the day Americans celebrate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.  

Thomas Jefferson was chosen to write the Declaration.

Jefferson's love of learning and his ability to work diligently prepared him for that historic responsibility when he was just thirty-three years old.  

In less than three weeks he drafted the document that would change the course of history and influence the lives of untold millions.

In 1776, when America announced its independence as a nation, it was composed of thirteen colonies surrounded by hostile powers.

Today, the United States is a country of fifty states covering a vast continent. Its military forces are the most powerful in the world. Its economy produces almost a quarter of the world's wealth. The American people are among the most hard-working, church-going, affluent, and generous in the world.

Is America exceptional?

Every nation derives meaning and purpose from some unifying quality—an ethnic character, a common religion, a shared history. 

The United States is different. America was founded at a particular time, by a particular people, on the basis of particular principles about man, liberty, and constitutional government.

The American Revolution drew on old ideas. The United States is the product of Western civilization, shaped by Judeo-Christian culture and the political liberties inherited from Great Britain.

Yet the founding of the United States was also revolutionary. Not in the sense of replacing one set of rulers with another, or overthrowing the institutions of society, but in placing political authority in the hands of the people.

As the English writer G. K. Chesterton famously observed, "America is the only nation in the world that is founded on a creed." That creed is set forth most clearly in the Declaration of Independence, by which the American colonies announced their separation from Great Britain. The Declaration is a timeless statement of inherent rights, the proper purposes of government, and the limits on political authority.

The American Founders appealed to self-evident truths, stemming from "the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God," to justify their liberty. This is a universal and permanent standard. These truths are not unique to America but apply to all men and women everywhere. They are as true today as they were in 1776.

Working from the principle of equality, the American Founders asserted that men could govern themselves according to common beliefs and the rule of law. Throughout history, political power was—and still is—often held by the strongest. But if all are equal and have the same rights, then no one is fit by nature to rule or to be ruled.

As Thomas Jefferson put it, "[T]he mass of mankind has not been born with saddles on their backs, nor a favored few booted and spurred, ready to ride them legitimately, by the grace of God." The only source of the legitimate powers of government is the consent of the governed. This is the cornerstone principle of American government, society, and independence.

America's principles establish religious liberty as a fundamental right. It is in our nature to pursue our convictions of faith. Government must not establish an official religion, just as it must guarantee the free exercise of religion. Indeed, popular government requires a flourishing of religious faith. If a free people are to govern themselves politically, they must first govern themselves morally.

These principles also mean that everyone has the right to the fruits of their own labor. This fundamental right to acquire, possess, and sell property is the backbone of opportunity and the most practical means to pursue human happiness. This right, along with the free enterprise system that stems from it, is the source of prosperity and the foundation of economic liberty.

Because people have rights, government has only the powers that the sovereign people have delegated to it. These powers are specified by a fundamental law called a constitution. Under the rule of law, all are protected by generally agreed-upon laws that apply, equally, to everyone.

The United States Constitution defines the institutions of American government: three distinct branches of government that make the law, enforce the law, and judge the law in particular cases. This framework gives the American government the powers it needs to secure our fundamental rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

The ultimate purpose of securing these rights and of limiting government is to protect human freedom. That freedom allows the institutions of civil society—family, school, church, and private associations—to thrive, forming the habits and virtues required for liberty.   (To be continued...)

Did you know that miracles played a significant role in shaping the United States of America?

The early leaders of America lived at a time that required great faith.  They sacrificed beyond comprehension and turned to God when it looked like all was lost.

They were blessed with the miracles they needed, often in the last possible moment. 

This four minute tour gives a wonderful introduction to the "hand of providence" in our early history.

We never know the love of a parent ‘til we become parents ourselves.”  ~Henry Ward Beecher


"His heritage to his children wasn't words or possessions, but an unspoken treasure, the treasure of his example as a man and a father."  ~Will Rogers Jr.


"What do I owe my father? Everything."  ~Henry Van Dyke

"He opened the jar of pickles when no one else could.  He was the only one in the house who wasn't afraid to go into the basement by himself.  He cut himself shaving, but no one kissed it or got excited about it.  It  was understood when it rained, he got the car and brought it around to the door.  When anyone was sick, he went out to get the prescription filled.  He took lots of pictures...but he was never in them."  ~Erma Bombeck


"The measure of a man is not of his worth, but what he means to those he loves."   ~Leisha Farnsworth

"My father used to play with my brother and me in the yard.  Mother would come out and say, 'You're tearing up the grass.'    'We're not raising grass,' Dad would reply. 'We're raising boys.'"   ~Harmon Killebrew


"When I was a boy of fourteen, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around. But when I got to be twenty-one, I was astonished at how much he had learned in seven years. "  ~Mark Twain

"I just owe almost everything to my father and it’s passionately interesting to me that the things that I learned in a small town, in a very modest home, are just the things that I believe have won the election."  ~Margaret Thatcher


"Big as he was, [my dad] never tried to make anyone feel small. Powerful as he became, he never took advantage of those who were weaker.  Strength, he believed, was never more admirable than when it was applied with restraint. Shopkeeper, doorman, king or queen, it made no difference, Dad treated everyone with the same unfailing courtesy. Acknowledging the innate dignity in us all."  
~Ron Reagan


"My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person: he believed in me."  ~Sharon James 

Americans celebrate Flag Day on June 14th to commemorate the adoption of the United States flag on June 14, 1777.  

Here are some good ways to teach our children the history and meaning of the flag and to help them appreciate our precious heritage.  

Choose a few ideas below for your family to enjoy. Invite friends to join you if you'd like, and create happy, meaningful memories together.


*  Display the flag.  Talk about what it represents, and what it means to you.

*  Say the Pledge of Allegiance.  (You could even learn to say it in sign language.)  

*  Talk about what the Pledge of Allegiance represents, and what it means to you.

*  Learn about the history of the flag.

*  Learn the history of Flag Day.

*  Learn flag etiquette, how to fold the flag, and why it's significant. 

*  Learn about and sing our national anthem, "The Star Spangled Banner."

*  Learn about and sing “You’re a Grand Old Flag."  Sing or play other patriotic songs.  
   "There are Many Flags" is another great song to sing on Flag Day.

*  Make patriotic crafts.  Here are more ideas.  You could use them as part of a family parade with 
   young children, or to decorate for the 4th of July.

*  Serve patriotic treats (or keep it simple with watermelon or root beer floats) and have fun.


Learn More
*  United States Flag Quotes
*  2014 Presidential Proclamation -- Flag Day and National Flag Week
*  Recent Presidential Flag Day Proclamations 
*  What So Proudly We Hail
*  USFlag.org
*  USA Flag Site.

Today is the 70th anniversary of D-Day, the day when Allied Forces invaded Normandy, on June 6, 1944.  

The price was staggering.  More men died on that single day than in all of the Iraq War.  But with incredible courage the Allied Forces persisted, and won an amazing victory.  The victory at Normandy prepared the way for the liberation of Europe from Nazi control, and led to the end of World War II.  

We gratefully remember them and their sacrifice.  May we also be true as we face whatever sacrifices are required in our day to defend the great legacy of liberty we have received!

Presidential Historian on the Significance of D-Day

"Of all the days in the 20th century, none were more consequential than June 6, 1944...
other nominees flatten when one asks, 'What if D-Day had Failed?'"  ~Douglas Brinkley

General Eisenhower's D-Day Message

"You are about to embark upon a great crusade, toward which we have striven these many months. The eyes of the world are upon you. 
The hopes and prayers of liberty loving people everywhere march with you."  
~General Dwight D. Eisenhower

Scenes from the D-Day Invasion

"They fight not for the lust of conquest.  They fight to end conquest.  They fight to liberate." 
~President Franklin D. Roosevelt

Learn More

• What Does D-Day Mean to Us Now?
• D-Day 70th Anniversary Special Edition
• Army Commemoration of D-Day
  
• History.com D-Day Resources
  
• D-Day Landings Scenes in 1944 and Now
  
• American Minute about D-Day
  
• President Reagan Remembers D-Day
  

President Ronald Reagan's faith in God, his belief in the goodness of the American people, and his confidence in the future changed the course of history.

We face many challenges today, but they are not new.  Reagan experienced similar challenges and overcame them with faith, determination, optimism, and hard work.

May we honor President Reagan and the great legacy of liberty he left us by working to restore the conservative principles he championed!

Here are some favorite stories and videos about Reagan.  They are full of valuable lessons from the life of one of America’s greatest leaders.  


Ronald Reagan’s Childhood

Happy Birthday Ronald Reagan!
Over 100 years ago today, an ordinary baby was born (if any baby can be called ordinary).   His parents named him Ronald Wilson Reagan.  He was born in a simple home, to an obscure mother and an alcoholic father.  

Learning About Ronald Reagan's Childhood (4:26) 
President Reagan grew up with all the challenges that can come with having an alcoholic father -- financial hardship, emotional turmoil, unpredictable home life, and moving from town to town.  Yet he became one of America’s most revered leaders.  

 
Reagan’s Family 

Insights Into a Legendary Love  (8:32)
This heart-warming interview is full of insights into one of the great romances of modern America. Nancy's words of wisdom are valuable for any couple trying to build a happy and lasting marriage. 

Michael Reagan Remembers His Father
In this beautiful eulogy, Michael Reagan tells us what it's like to be the son of Ronald Reagan.

President Reagan Teaches His Daughter
Patti Reagan shares how her Dad took time to kindly and patiently teach her about death.  In so doing he also shared his great faith in God and his love for life. 

Ron Reagan Remembers His Father
It appears that President Reagan governed his family in much the same way he governed America.  What a great example for all of us! 


Faith and Prayer

Ronald Reagan - Man of Faith  (4:48)
This video was made to show President Ronald Reagan's sincere faith and that,  even while he held the highest office in the land, he stayed true to his deeply held beliefs. 

The Importance of Religion in America  (15:17)
"Of all the dispositions and habits, which lead to political prosperity, Religion and Morality are indispensable supports. 

Ronald Reagan on America's Heritage of Faith  (25:00)
President Reagan’s remarks reflect his deep faith, his belief in family values, his extensive knowledge of American history and heritage, and his hope for America’s future.

President Reagan Talks About Prayer  (2:07)
Prayer guides us in our daily life and strengthens us in times of trial.


Freedom

We the People...  (1:38)
In less that 2 minutes, President Reagan sums up the basis of our liberty. Ours was the first revolution in the history of mankind that truly reversed the course of government, and with three little words: 'We the People.'

Renewing America  (3:32)
"If we look to the answer as to why for so many years we achieved so much, prospered as no other people on Earth, it was because here in this land we unleashed the energy and individual genius of man to a greater extent than has ever been done before."  This is 31/2 inspiring minutes from  President Reagan’s first inaugural address.

Liberty vs. Tyranny  (2:18)
"Freedom has never been so fragile, so close to slipping from our grasp as it is at this moment....I think it’s time we ask ourselves if we still know the freedoms that were intended for us by the Founding Fathers." 

Ronald Reagan on Socialized Medicine  (5:04)
President Reagan's advice on socialized medicine is perhaps even more relevant today than when he gave it.  We need to stop government encroachment on our liberty! 

President Reagan Remembers D-Day  (13:22)
We're here to mark that day in history when the Allied armies joined in battle to reclaim this continent to liberty. For 4 long years, much of Europe had been under a terrible shadow. Here in Normandy the rescue began.

The Speech at the Berlin Wall Changed the Course of History (3:45, 4:53)
We need to tell our children the story of this speech and to teach them that sometimes it takes courage to stand alone.  Sometimes it's hard to do the right thing.  But nothing is more important.  

A Time for Choosing  (3:44, 29:33)
Ronald Reagan warns Americans that we are at the crossroads between two radically different visions of America and encourages us to defend our God-given rights and freedoms.

 


Tributes to President Reagan

Celebrating President Ronald Reagan's Legacy  (2:04)
We face many challenges as a nation today, but as we celebrate the life of Ronald Reagan, it is important to note that these are not new challenges. Reagan faced similar problems, but believed that it could be "morning in America."

Ronald Reagan, Great Person and Communicator  (several short videos)
We live in a time of divisiveness and strife.  Sometimes the differences of opinion in America appear too big to bridge.  Reagan lived in such a time.  His ideas were met with derision and scorn, yet, in just a few years,  people were praising him and calling him “the great communicator.” 

Tribute to Ronald Reagan  (9:55)
"Tribute to Ronald Reagan," was produced for the Ronald Reagan Award Gala in 2006.

RNC Tribute to President Reagan  (3:42) 
President Reagan appealed to our hopes, not our fears, and our confidence rather than our doubts.  


Holidays and Days of Remembrance

What July Fourth Means to Me
By: Ronald Reagan     From: Parade Magazine

Ronald Reagan Talks about Thanksgiving  (1:24)
Thank God for the bounty and goodness of our nation. And as a measure of our gratitude, let us rededicate ourselves to the preservation of this, the land of the free, and the home of the brave. 

President Reagan's Inspiring Christmas Message  (3:27)
In a world of Christmas culture wars and political correctness, President Reagan's national Christmas address is absolutely refreshing!  What a blessing his example continues to be! 

President Reagan's Remarks at a Memorial Service Following the Challenger Disaster
Reagan delivered these remarks at a memorial service for the Challenger  astronauts.