We Believe These Truths To Be Self Evident
“It seems to me to be equally plain that no business which depends for existence on paying less than living wages to its workers has any right to continue in this country. By “business” I mean the whole of commerce as well as the whole of industry; by workers I mean all workers, the white collar class as well as the men in overalls; and by living wages I mean more than a bare subsistence level-I mean the wages of decent living.”
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At The New FDR, we are dedicated to rekindling the spirit of progressivism that shaped our nation’s foundations. Our mission is to inspire Democrats and progressives to proudly embrace the legacies of visionary leaders like Franklin D. Roosevelt while also recognizing the progressive values championed by our nation’s founding fathers and pivotal figures throughout American history.
We believe that the ideals encapsulated in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution are not merely historic artifacts but living, breathing principles that demand our commitment to justice, equality, and the common good. By championing the federalists, the great reformers, and the architects of democracy, we aim to unify our movement around a shared heritage of progress and innovation.
Together, we will elevate our voices, celebrate our rich history, and empower each other to advocate for a future where progressive ideals flourish. We invite you to join us in this mission—to honor our past and harness its lessons as we forge a more equitable and inclusive America for generations to come.
From Pilgrims to Progress:
How the Seeds of Self-Governance Still Bear Fruit Today
Human history is etched with the story of migration, a constant striving for survival and a better existence. From the earliest wanderers to the pilgrims who braved the perilous Atlantic, the desire for freedom and opportunity has driven the course of civilization. The story of the pilgrims, and the legacy they helped forge in America, continues to resonate today, offering a powerful blueprint for a more just and equitable world.
When the Mayflower sailed towards the shores of North America, it carried more than just people; it carried a profound yearning for religious freedom. This desire, coupled with the pragmatic realities of survival in a new land, gave birth to the Mayflower Compact. This groundbreaking agreement, born from necessity in 1620, established the principle that common people could govern themselves and that the community held a responsibility to care for each other. It was a revolutionary concept, a seed planted in fertile ground that would blossom into the very foundations of American democracy.
The Declaration of Independence and the American Constitution, documents that continue to shape the world, built directly upon the principles enshrined in the Mayflower Compact. They enshrined the ideals of self-governance, individual liberty, and the pursuit of a more perfect union. However, simply having these ideals on paper wasn’t enough. The character of the leaders who embodied them was equally crucial.
George Washington, the leader of the Continental Army and the first President of the United States, set a gold standard for selfless leadership that continues to inspire. After leading the newly formed nation to victory in the Revolutionary War, he could have easily seized power and become a king. Yet, he chose instead to uphold the principles of democracy, stepping down after two terms and paving the way for a peaceful transfer of power. His commitment to serving the nation, not himself, solidified the foundations of the American republic.
Furthermore, Washington’s leadership embraced inclusivity in unexpected ways. In a time of rigid social norms, he recognized talent and dedication regardless of personal beliefs. Consider Baron Friedrich von Steuben, a Revolutionary War hero who brought unmatched military discipline and grit to the American troops, and was also openly gay. Washington valued his contributions and leadership, showcasing a level of acceptance rarely seen in that era. Even his choice of title, “Mr. President,” reflected a desire to remain humble and accessible, a stark contrast to the regal titles he could have embraced.
The legacy of the Pilgrims and George Washington isn’t just about historical figures on pedestals. It’s about the enduring power of the principles they championed: self-governance, community responsibility, and selfless leadership. These principles, when embraced, have the potential to transform societies and improve lives.
Today, as we grapple with complex challenges like inequality, social division, and the need for greater empathy, these historical lessons are more relevant than ever. The “New FDR,” a hypothetical leader inspired by these principles, could forge a brighter future by recognizing the importance of these historical lessons. Remembering that the seeds of progress were sown centuries ago, with the Mayflower Compact and the selfless leadership of figures like George Washington, can inspire us to build a world where opportunity is more widely shared, and where the principles of freedom, equality, and community are not just ideals, but lived realities. We owe it to the Pilgrims, to George Washington, and to ourselves, to continue striving for a more just and equitable world.
A New Hope
Democrats need to see the value in holding up leaders like Franklin Roosevelt, just as Republicans do with Reagan. Progressives should champion figures from the founding era. George Washington, John Adams, and other Federalists fought for ideas that shaped the country. Abe Lincoln and Teddy Roosevelt were progressives who pushed for change. Henry Clay and other Whigs created policies that aimed for progress. Founding Fathers like Ben Franklin and George Mason led the push for new ideas. The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution are rooted in progress, showing that progress is part of America’s core. Democrats often overlook this history, but it’s clear that America’s best leaders were progressives. Embracing this history can help Democrats rally behind bold, forward-thinking ideas. Recognizing the roots of progress in America’s past makes it clear that progress is part of the nation’s DNA.
The famous phrase “We hold these truths to be self-evident” from the American Declaration of Independence proclaims a radical idea: certain fundamental principles are so inherently true that they require no external proof. They are obvious and accessible to anyone employing reason. This statement challenges traditional systems of authority based on divine right or inherited power, asserting instead that truths about human rights and equality are universally recognizable.
The importance of this declaration lies in its foundation for a just and equitable society. By grounding rights in self-evident truths, the Declaration asserts that these rights are inherent and inalienable, not granted by any king or government. It establishes a moral and philosophical basis for challenging oppression and demanding equality, inspiring movements for liberty and justice across the globe. The belief in self-evident truths empowers individuals to question the status quo and holds those in power accountable to universal principles of human dignity.
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
This refers to the right to exist and be protected from violence and harm
Liberty
This signifies the freedom to make one’s own choices, to move freely, and to be free from undue government control.
Pursuit of Happiness
This is a broader concept, referring to the ability to strive for a fulfilling and meaningful life, even if it involves personal goals and aspirations that are not universally agreed upon.