I wrote this several years ago and post it each 4th of July:
The document is on the table.
Although some of your colleagues are making jokes, each one knows that the signature places the signer's head in a hangman's noose. To sign means you will be regarded as a traitor by the nation that has held your loyalty since birth. Your livelihood may be destroyed and your family doomed to a life of isolation and poverty. Many of your friends and associates will be under suspicion. Others will shun you. Your side, which has feeble and poorly-trained forces, will be fighting the greatest military power in the world. Despite all of the grand talk, the odds of success are small. Even if your side is successful, your new nation will be vulnerable to internal disputes and attacks from predatory powers. This theory of self-government, however attractive, might not work.
It's your turn. Will you sign?
5 comments:
It's really unknowable, but I'd like to think that I would. Just finishing up Chernow's Alexander Hamilton. Incredible.
Tim,
I have not read that book. I'll add it to my list.
Thanks!
Michael
I read this post every year, and think of my united empire loyalist ancestors.
I guess I've been reading your blog a long time! Thanks!
- Bobbo
I left a comment here this morning thanking you for your blog, but the comment moderation might have eaten it.
Thanks! Every year I appreciate this post.
- Bobbo
Bobbo,
I don't know what happened with the comment moderation but thanks for following the blog!
I deeply appreciate it.
Michael
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