The Founding Fathers and America: What Would They Think in the 21st Century?

The Founding Fathers would look at America in the 21st Century and conclude that the Electoral College was a huge mistake, and they might well be disappointed. As Franklin famously told a lady in 1787, “A Republic if you can keep it.”

Governance and Republic

Governments are established among men to protect the rights of Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness. During war-time, these rights are put in jeopardy. According to Article One, Section Eight of the U.S. Constitution, the representatives of the people have the authority to declare war. But Congress has not done this since December 8th, 1941. Article One, Section One, states that ALL legislative power is vested in the Congress, leaving none for the president. However, we have allowed presidents to act like kings, initiating wars and ruling through executive orders.

Constitutional Presidency vs. Popular Perception

When we get a president that follows the Constitution, we often throw him out after just one term and criticize him as a "weak president." The people seem to want "strong" presidents, but if you read Article Two of the Constitution, this is not what the Founders wanted. They wanted a well-regulated militia as the security for the nation. The Founders understood that the king used his 'standing' or professional army to enforce unjust laws. An Army of the people would not oppress the people, regardless of what some future government might order it to do.

The Role of the Militia

There are four important dates to remember in this regard:

1825.Militia units all over the country adopted the name "National Guard" after Lafayette made a speaking tour of the U.S. and talked of La Guard National of the French Revolution. Americans approved of revolutions in those passed and Teddy Roosevelt signed the "Dick Act," recognizing two forms of militia. The National Guard is the "active militia." Every male between 18 and 45 years old is the "inactive militia," or the militia "in arms."

The concept of a well-regulated militia, as intended by the Founders, provided a crucial check on potential abuses by a standing army. Unfortunately, in the 20th and 21st centuries, the National Guard and the state militias have been transformed, to a significant degree, from a citizen-based defensive force into a more professional and specialized unit, often reflecting the dual federal and state nature of U.S. military organizations.

The intention behind this constitutional clause was to prevent the concentration of power in the hands of a single executive, ensuring balanced governance and the protection of the people's rights. As we reflect on the state of America today, it is essential to understand the Founders' vision and critically assess how well our modern governance aligns with their enduring ideals.