During my time teaching constitutional history, I would have a student read aloud to the class, leading to emotional reactions from the listeners. This method was effective in conveying the brilliance of the Founders, beyond just the well-known figures like Madison and Hamilton. Participants like John Marshall and Thomas McKean, as well as Jonathan Smith, showcased the depth of talent present during that time.
Jonathan Smith, a farmer from western Massachusetts who supported the Constitution, delivered a powerful speech at the state convention in 1788. His speech, crafted in the style of a classical Roman oration, effectively persuaded his fellow delegates. Despite attempts to throw him off track, Smith’s speech left a lasting impact on the audience.
When I had students read Smith’s speech in class, it never failed to evoke strong emotions. It’s a reminder that even lesser-known figures like Smith played a crucial role in shaping the Constitution. They sought to strip you of your possessions, threaten to set fire to your homes, force you to be vigilant day and night, with alarms echoing from town to town. Families torn apart, with mothers weeping for their children caught in the chaos. Some were captured, children taken from their schools, and led away to face the horrors of war. The prisoners forced into the line of fire, betrayed by their own comrades. The anguish and despair were overwhelming.
In the midst of this turmoil, the longing for stability was palpable. Any semblance of authority would have been welcomed with open arms. Anarchy leading to the clamor for a ruler, even if it meant trading one form of tyranny for another.
When the Constitution emerged, it was hailed as a solution to the chaos. A beacon of hope in turbulent times. Its structure of checks and balances reminiscent of the state constitution formation process. No need for legal counsel, as the framework spoke for itself.
Despite the support from lawyers, scholars, and the wealthy, the Constitution was not seen as a tool for personal gain. The skepticism towards those in power was unfounded. Honesty breeds trust, and the shared goal of safeguarding liberty and property unites us all.
The provision for ten representatives to Congress was seen as a chance to hold each other accountable. A system of mutual oversight to prevent abuse of power. The fear of entrusting authority to the educated and affluent was dismissed. In times of dispute, solidarity among all stakeholders is crucial.
In the face of disagreements, compromise is preferable to inaction. Building a fence that may not please everyone is better than leaving the land vulnerable to destruction. The time for action is now, to reap the fruits of past endeavors.
Amid calls for caution and deliberation, seizing the moment is imperative. The seeds of progress were sown, and now is the time to harvest. Let us not squander this opportunity for unity and progress. Please rewrite this sentence.
Source link
