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As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, a pivotal examination of the nation’s founding principles and their implications is underway. Historian Joseph Ellis, in his latest work, “The Great Contradiction: The Tragic Side of the American Founding,” delves into the complexities of American history, highlighting both the achievements and failures of the founders. This critical reflection aims to answer pressing questions about what it means to be an American today and who has been historically excluded from that narrative.

In a recent visit to Vermont, a state that proudly embraces the motto “Freedom and Unity,” journalist Judy Woodruff sought insights from locals at the Country Girl Diner in Chester. As patrons engaged in thoughtful discussion over lunch, their reflections revealed a deep concern over the nation’s current political divide. Scott MacDonald, a diner customer, poignantly remarked, “Seeing my country essentially split in half is very, very painful,” underscoring the emotional weight of contemporary political strife.

Wendy Hayward, a teacher from Vermont, emphasized the importance of how history is taught, suggesting that a more honest presentation of the past is crucial for understanding the present. “The way we have taught history in this country has been an avoidance of what our history is,” she noted, indicating a need for a more inclusive narrative that acknowledges the experiences of marginalized groups.

The Founders’ Contradictions

Ellis, who has dedicated much of his life to studying primary documents from figures like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, articulates in his work that the founders were not infallible beings but rather flawed humans. He highlights a significant contradiction in their vision: whereas they aimed to create a government reflecting the will of the people, they simultaneously excluded vast segments of society from this very process.

Ellis notes that by 1776, one in five individuals in the American colonies were enslaved, and Native nations controlled extensive lands. Yet, neither group was considered in the Constitution’s declaration of “we, the people.” This exclusion laid the groundwork for future conflicts, including the Civil War, a tragic inevitability that arose from the founders’ failure to resolve the issue of slavery.

Legacy of Slavery and Race

Reflecting on the legacy of slavery, Ellis argues that even those who opposed it did not support equal treatment for formerly enslaved individuals. He states, “The failure to end slavery means in the end the Civil War is inevitable.” This unresolved moral question has echoed through history, resonating in statements from various U.S. Presidents, including John F. Kennedy, who noted the critical issue of equal rights, and Barack Obama, who acknowledged the persistent divisive nature of race in American society.

As contemporary debates rage on issues such as policing, voting rights, and federal power, the historical context of these discussions is vital. Ellis asserts that the founders deliberately postponed addressing slavery out of fear that it would jeopardize the formation of the nation. “If they raise the issue during the war, the South will secede and will lose the war,” he explains. This reluctance to confront such a fundamental issue has had lasting repercussions.

Exclusion of Native Americans

Another critical failure highlighted by Ellis is the exclusion of Native Americans from the founding narrative. They were not granted citizenship, did not have a vote, and were not acknowledged in treaties that established the United States. “They basically confiscated all their property, claiming they lost the war or something. They didn’t lose the war,” Ellis remarks, illustrating the injustices faced by Indigenous peoples.

The historical record shows that over the next century, the U.S. Government signed more than 370 treaties with tribal nations but broke nearly all of them. This systemic disregard for Native rights and sovereignty has contributed to the ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous communities today.

Engaging with History

In light of these revelations, Ellis urges Americans to engage critically with their history. He emphasizes that the Constitution is not a static document but a living framework that invites ongoing debate about its truths. “We have lost that capacity to argue with each other in a strenuous but friendly way,” he notes, calling for a revival of public discourse that embraces diverse perspectives.

As part of this engagement, Ellis encourages people to read foundational texts like the Declaration of Independence and Thomas Paine’s “Common Sense,” which he describes as pivotal in shaping American thought. He believes that understanding these documents can empower citizens to actively participate in shaping the nation’s future.

As we approach the 250th anniversary of the United States, the reflections offered by Ellis and the voices of ordinary Americans highlight the importance of grappling with both the triumphs and the failures of the past. The upcoming midterm elections are seen as critical in determining the future trajectory of the republic. Ellis states, “The republic is on the ballot,” emphasizing the need for informed and active citizen participation.

as the nation prepares to celebrate its quarter-millennium, it is essential to confront the complex legacy of its founding. Understanding the broader context of American history, including the voices and experiences of those historically marginalized, will be crucial in fostering a more inclusive future for all. Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts and reflections on this ongoing dialogue.