Title
The Declaration of Independence: A Study in the History of Political Ideas
Files
Description
This important study of the Declaration of Independence compares early drafts of the Declaration with the final version to discuss what influenced its conception; why it came about; and how it was interpreted by successive generations.
Drawing on key philosophers of the Enlightenment period, such as Descartes, Rousseau, and John Locke, Becker explores the revolutionary tradition in the Western world, which for the American Founding Fathers was inspired heavily by the earlier Civil Wars in England, and the protest writers of pre-Revolutionary France.
Becker’s thought-provoking analysis of the Declaration makes clear its importance to both the students of American history and of liberty.
Publication Date
1-1-1942
Publisher
Vintage
Disciplines
United States History