American Ideals: Founding a “Republic of Virtue”

Overview

Trace the dominant features of the early American ethos that culminated in declaring independence and organizing the constitutional form of government unheralded in political history.

Course Details

This course invites you to explore crucial questions about the ideals affirmed by the Founders, the historical lessons they studied, and the complex relationship between these ideals and the institution of slavery. Through 12 lectures, Professor Robinson delves into the debates on human nature and the conditions essential for societal flourishing. You’ll examine:

• The foundational principles shaping the early republic.
• The context of the Revolutionary War and the drafting of foundational documents.
• Key figures and their contributions to America’s ideological framework.

Video Lessons

1. The Colonists as Faithful Subjects (31 min)

• Explore the deep-rooted ties between the colonies and Britain in 1865.

1. Colonial Constitutions and Their Inspiration (30 min)

• Examine the orderly procedures that emerged from trade and governance.

1. Who “Founded” the United States? (30 min)

• Discuss the dual role of ideas and men in America’s founding.

1. Taxation Without Representation (30 min)

• Understand the colonial response to British taxation.

1. The Declaration of Independence (30 min)

• Analyze the first document announcing the birth of a nation.

1. The Royalist View of the Revolution (30 min)

• Consider the perspective of the British on the American rebellion.

1. The Articles of Confederation (30 min)

• Trace the urgency and principles behind the first governing document.

1. The Constitution of the United States, Part 1 (30 min)

• Discover the debates and intentions behind the drafting of the Constitution.

1. The Constitution of the United States, Part 2 (30 min)

• Explore the miraculous achievement of crafting the Constitution.

1. Publius (30 min)

• Delve into the Federalist Papers and their arguments for the Constitution.

1. With Liberty and Justice For All (30 min)

• Discuss the implications of the Bill of Rights regarding slavery.

1. Paine and Burke (31 min)

• Analyze how the views of these thinkers clarify the tensions in America’s unfolding ideals.