Independence Day: A Celebration of Human Liberty
July Fourth is more than just hot dogs and sparklers. It’s a chance to recall the American ideals that have shaped our country – and the globe.
By Damon Elder, publisher and editor-in-chief, AltsWire
Today we celebrate Independence Day, an annual holiday that for many revolves around fireworks and barbecues. July 4th, 1776 – the day when the Second Continental Congress unanimously adopted the Declaration of Independence and announced the separation of the 13 colonies from Britain – was not simply a step forward for our country, however; it was a momentous step forward for the world. For the first time in history, a nation was founded on the ideals of equality, justice, and individual liberties inviolate by any government. This was a political revolution as well as a philosophical revolution. It left a monumental legacy that continues to shape the world, from our governments to our financial institutions.
At its core, the American Revolution was a philosophical revolution, an experiment in the application of Enlightenment ideals to the political sphere and a bold rejection of the idea that any government, no matter how distant or seemingly benevolent, has the right to rule over individuals without their consent. Written by Thomas Jefferson, the Declaration of Independence encapsulated these ideals, asserting that each individual held “certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.” These rights are not granted by governments; they are inherent to our nature.
The Revolution’s emphasis on individual liberty, limited government, and the protection of property rights resonated deeply with people across the globe who yearned for freedom from oppression and arbitrary rule. The French Revolution, which erupted just over a decade after the American Revolution, drew heavily on the ideas and experiences of the American colonists, demonstrating the transnational power of the concept of human liberty. Furthermore, the concept of individual liberty laid the groundwork for not only a philosophy that continues to inspire millions today, but also for our government and financial institutions.
The U.S. Constitution, crafted in the Revolution’s aftermath, established a federal system of government with a separation of powers and a system of checks and balances. One which, for the first time, established that government’s legitimate power was limited and granted by the people for their benefit and the protection of their liberty. This was a sea change in the history of the world and one of the most significant advancements of human liberty in mankind’s history.
The Revolution also spurred the development of a dynamic and diverse financial ecosystem in the United States. The end of British mercantilist policies allowed American entrepreneurs to flourish, while the establishment of a sound financial system – including a national bank and a stable currency – fostered economic growth and prosperity. The American financial system, built on the principles of free enterprise and competition, has since become a global model attracting investment and facilitating international trade.
We might also say that America’s independence paved the way for alternative investments. Certainly, the evolution of alternatives is a testament to America’s entrepreneurial spirit. In the early days of the country, investments were primarily limited to land, commodities, and government bonds. However, as the nation’s economy has grown and diversified, so have investment opportunities.
The 20th century saw the birth of real estate investment trusts, the development of private equity and venture capital, which has provided funding for entrepreneurs at startups and other emerging companies. Today, crowdfunding, cryptocurrencies and other alternative asset classes continue to develop, proving that Americans will continue to seek out innovative ways to invest and grow their capital. This drive for financial independence and entrepreneurship is intrinsically linked to the American spirit. Alternative investments, with their potential for higher returns and diversification benefits, are a natural extension of this spirit, offering individuals the opportunity to take control of their financial future and build wealth outside the traditional banking system.
Independence Day’s significance has grown beyond our geographic borders. America serves as a beacon of hope for people around the world who aspire to liberty and self-determination; and as a shining example of the power of individual action and the importance of resisting tyranny. The philosophical ideals which underpinned the Revolution – liberty, equality, and self-determination – have inspired countless global movements for political reform and social justice, reminding us that the quest for freedom is a universal human endeavor.
Independence Day is also a reminder of liberty’s fragility. Though our rights may be “unalienable,” they are not guaranteed. They must be constantly defended. Throughout our country’s history, there have been those who have sought to expand the government’s power or restrict individual choice. As Americans, it is our duty to remain vigilant and propel policies that promote individual liberty, free markets, and limited government intervention.
While parties and family gatherings are enjoyable, let today also serve as a reminder of the risks and sacrifices made by the Founding Fathers and the ongoing struggle for liberty and equality. It is a day to celebrate the freedoms enjoyed by American citizens; to reaffirm the commitment to the ideals that inspired the Revolution; and to serve as a reminder that liberty, once won, must never be taken for granted.
Damon Elder is the publisher and editor-in-chief of AltsWire, as well as president of Spotlight Marketing Communications. He has worked in the alternative investments industry for nearly 20 years. He was previously a congressional aide and political consultant before finding honest work in the private sector. Share your views with him at [email protected]. Thoughtful replies may be published in AltsWire.
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