It is Independence Day weekend; I wish all fun and the safest of celebrations. Yesterday, as I have done nearly every 4th of July for 60 years, I read the Declaration of Independence. If you haven’t read it in a while, this link will take you to it:
https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration-transcript
Following are a few thoughts about the 4th from John Adams, 2nd President of the United States, and one of the signatories of the Declaration of Independence. I’ve also included some patriotic eye candy for all you firearms fans, enjoy.
“Yesterday, the greatest question was decided which ever was debated in America; and a greater perhaps never was, nor will be, decided among men. A resolution was passed without one dissenting colony, that those United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States.”
“The date will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.”
“I always consider the settlement of America with reverence and wonder, as the opening of a grand scene and design in providence, for the illumination of the ignorant and the emancipation of the slavish part of mankind all over the earth.”
Here’s wishing all of us a very “Happy Birthday!”
Be safe and good shooting.
Colonel Smoothbore
