Patriotic Resources
America's founding documents and liberty related links.
Historical Founding Documents
Common Sense - Common Sense is a pamphlet written by Thomas Paine in 1775–1776 advocating independence from Great Britain to people in the Thirteen Colonies.
Declaration of Independence - The Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776.
The Federalist Papers - The Federalist Papers is a collection of articles and essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay to promote the ratification of the Constitution of the United States.
Articles of Confederation - Ratified on March 1, 1781, the Articles of Confederation served as the United States' first constitution
The Constitution of the United States - Signed on September 17, 1787, the Constitution established the government of the United States.
The Bill of Rights - Ratified on December 15, 1791, the Bill of Rights comprises the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution.
The Emancipation Proclamation - On January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation.
Patriotic Organizations and Institutions
Other Patriotic Resources
What Is Patriotism?
Patriotism refers to devotion and loyalty towards the United States of America. It is a deep-seated sense of love and attachment to our nation and its values, history, culture, and ideals. Patriotism includes a firm belief in and support for our republic, individual freedom, equality, and justice enshrined in the U.S. Constitution.
For many Americans, patriotism involves a sense of duty and responsibility towards their country. It can manifest in various ways, such as displaying the American flag, participating in civic activities, respecting national symbols and traditions, serving in the military or other public service, and actively engaging in political processes. It is expressed through acts of volunteerism, community service, and contributing to the betterment of society.
Patriotism does not necessarily require uniformity of thought or unquestioning support for government policies. It is rooted in the belief that citizens have the right and responsibility to actively participate in shaping the nation's future and holding their leaders accountable. Debates, discussions, and peaceful expressions of disagreement are essential to a healthy republic and can coexist with a strong sense of patriotism.
Timeline of America's Founding
1492: Christopher Columbus arrives in the Americas, initiating European exploration and colonization.
1607: The English established the Jamestown colony in Virginia, marking the first permanent settlement in North America.
1620: The Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower arrived at Plymouth, Massachusetts, seeking religious freedom.
1776: The American colonies declare independence from Great Britain by adopting the Declaration of Independence on July 4th.
1777-1787: The Articles of Confederation served as the United States' first constitution, establishing a loose alliance among the states.
1787: The U.S. Constitution was drafted during the Philadelphia Constitutional Convention, providing a framework for a stronger central government.
1789: The U.S. Constitution is ratified, and George Washington becomes the first President of the United States.
1791: The Bill of Rights, the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, is ratified, guaranteeing individual rights and liberties.
1803: The Louisiana Purchase occurred, doubling the size of the United States through the acquisition of a vast territory from France.
1812-1815: The War of 1812 occurred between the United States and Great Britain, confirming American independence and national identity.
1820: The Missouri Compromise was passed, balancing the admission of enslaved persons and free states to maintain a delicate equilibrium.
1861-1865: The American Civil War takes place, primarily over the issue of slavery, resulting in the preservation of the Union and the abolition of slavery.
1865: The 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is ratified, officially abolishing slavery in the United States.
1868: The 14th Amendment is ratified, granting equal protection under the law and citizenship rights to all persons born or naturalized in the U.S.
1920: The 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is ratified, granting women the right to vote.
1945: The United States emerged as a global superpower after World War II, significantly shaping the post-war world order.
1964-1965: The Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 are enacted, advancing the cause of racial equality and ending legal segregation.