Civics & Citizenship

Recapture Our American Civil Discourse

Candace teaches the notions of liberty that inspired the American system of government.
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Caesar Rodney: Unsung Hero of Independence

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In the heart of the summer of 1776, as the fate of our nation hung in the balance, one man's courage and determination would alter the course of history. As we continue in our study of the Declaration of Independence, let's meet this unsung hero. The Call for Independence A little background about our first founding American document: June 7, 1776- Richard Henry Lee proposes independence to the Second Continental Congress. June 1776 - The Continental Congress advises the thirteen original colonies to adopt their own governments under the authority of the people. June 15, 1776- Delaware declares its independence. A Critical Vote: The Deadlock Back to the Continental Congress- Here's where the story gets interesting. Voting for independence from England reached a critical point. George Read, an avid supporter of independence, voted against it because he believed the process was moving too quickly. However, Thomas McKeon voted against independence. Now the Congress …

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Understanding D.C. Governance: Laws and Authority

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What laws govern the situation in Washington, D.C.? Let's discover the civics lesson in our nation's latest controversy. The District of Columbia has been under Home Rule since 1973. The District of Columbia Home Rule Act of 1973 provided a framework for local governance by citizens of the District. The federal government retains oversight responsibilities.  What Does the Constitution Say? First, here is what the U.S. Constitution says about the District of Columbia in Article 1, section 8: To exercise exclusive Legislation in all Cases whatsoever, over such District (not exceeding ten Miles square) as may, by Cession of particular States, and the acceptance of Congress, become the Seat of the Government of the United States, and to exercise like Authority over all Places purchased by the Consent of the Legislature of the State in which the Same shall be, for the Erection of Forts, Magazines, Arsenals, dock-Yards, and other needful Buildings; What do we learn about …

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Recent Articles

Caesar Rodney: Unsung Hero of Independence

In the heart of the summer of 1776, as the fate of our nation hung in the balance, one man’s courage and determination would alter the course of history. As we continue in our study of the Declaration of Independence, let’s meet this unsung hero. The Call for Independence A little background about our first […]

Understanding D.C. Governance: Laws and Authority

What laws govern the situation in Washington, D.C.? Let’s discover the civics lesson in our nation’s latest controversy. The District of Columbia has been under Home Rule since 1973. The District of Columbia Home Rule Act of 1973 provided a framework for local governance by citizens of the District. The federal government retains oversight responsibilities.  […]

The Next Civil War Seems Unlikely

Do you think America is headed for another Civil War? I get comments from readers that don’t simply question the possibility. They assume it. Or fear it. Or both. Similarly for some media commentators from time to time. So, I’ve been thinking this through and doing some research. Looks like the idea of another Civil […]

Pursuit of Happiness: Rights and Civic Responsibility

As we continue in our study of the Declaration of Independence, let’s dive deeper into the meaning of the “Pursuit of Happiness” as per a request from one of our participants. Understanding the Pursuit of Happiness When I teach teens this phrase, I start by telling them what it is NOT, i.e., the government buying […]

Why Do Younger Americans Embrace Marxism?

Younger Americans are increasingly drawn to Marxism, a trend that raises critical questions about their values, aspirations, and understanding of government and society. I’ve been thinking about this topic since I compiled my recent article,  “Marxism: A Utopian Illusion or Reality?” https://civicsandcitizenship.org/marxism-a-utopian-illusion-or-reality  I addressed the stark differences between Marxism and a Constitutional Republic. Most older […]

Marxism: A Utopian Illusion or Reality?

More Americans are considering Marxism as a viable system of governance. Who is convincing them that Marxism is the essence of utopia? It is well worth our time to reflect on the differences between Marxism and a Constitutional Republic, since growing numbers of Americans seem willing to embrace governance by a system that is anything […]

Self-Evident Truths: Foundations of Freedom

Have you ever pondered what a self-evident truth is? As we continue our study of the Declaration of Independence, let’s examine how this phrase was used and its significance. Start by reading the words as they are used in this founding American document: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created […]

Due Process: A Right for All?

The question of whether due process is a right reserved solely for American citizens and legal residents invites a deeper exploration of constitutional protections and their implications. Here’s an interesting question I received from a CSCC participant:  “Is it possible for Congress to pass a law stating that ‘due process’ is a right for only  […]

Correction:

Please note the following error in last week’s article https://civicsandcitizenship.org/reviving-the-declaration-its-modern-relevance George Washington was not a member of the Committee of Five. He was commanding the Continental army at the time. The Committee of Five members were John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Roger Sherman, Robert Livingston, and Benjamin Franklin. I sincerely regret the error.