FreedomWorks Chronicles the History of Freedom

For our Founding Fathers, the principle of freedom guided the creation of a radical new republic: the United States of America. The result is the most successful country in human history, but the national project our Founders began is under attack by the social engineers and the freedom-haters.

Today, FreedomWorks fights to preserve and restore America’s liberty by promoting lower taxes, a limited government, and greater economic freedom. FreedomWorks believes that the ideals of freedom and liberty from the past to the present provide the foundation for our fight.

That's why we've collected a list of great documents that highlight the struggle of individuals to preserve and expand their liberties. These powerful works are milestones in our history, and they continue to provide guidance as we fight for American freedom today.

HISTORY OF FREEDOM PRIMARY SOURCES

The Declaration of Independence The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen United States of America Magna Carta A translation of Magna Carta as confirmed by Edward I with his seal on March 28, 1297. Petition of Right 1628 Statement of the objectives of the 1628 English legal reform movement that led to the Civil War and deposing of Charles I in 1649. It expresses many of the ideals that later led to the American Revolution. The Objections to the Taxation of Our American Colonies by the Legislature of Great Britain, briefly consider’d Written in 1765, Soame Jenyns begins to set the stage for the American Revolution. William Pitt’s Speech on the Stamp Act William Pitt's speech opposing the Stamp Act, delivered on January 14, 1766. Declaration of Rights Declaration by the Virginia Convention of Delegates. June 12, 1776. Common Sense In 1776, Thomas Paine reflects on the present state of American affairs, particularly on the unfair and unjust ways of King George III and the British Parliament. Bill of Rights First 10 Amendments to the Constitution. Passed by Congress September 25, 1789 and ratified December 15, 1791. Declaration of Rights of Man 1789 The representatives of the French people, organized as a National Assembly, declare the natural, unalienable, and sacred rights of man. Rights of Man 1791-1792 A defense of the French Revolution written by Thomas Paine I, Pencil My Family Tree as told to Leonard E. Read. December 1958. Introducing Objectivism Ayn Rand summarizes her pro-freedom, pro-capitalism philosophy. Originally published in 1962.