Roger welcomes Dr. Matthew Spalding, Kirby professor in constitutional government and dean of the Van Andel Graduate School of Government at Hillsdale College, for a conversation about the ideas and intellectual traditions that shaped the Declaration of Independence. Drawing from his latest book, “The Making of the American Mind: The Story of Our Declaration of Independence,” Spalding explains how the American founding was influenced by classical philosophy, the Christian tradition and centuries of debate about law, liberty and self-government.

They discuss the philosophical roots of the Declaration and the influence of thinkers such as Cicero, Aristotle, John Locke and Richard Hooker. Spalding also explores how sermons, pamphlets and debates in the Continental Congress helped shape public understanding during the revolutionary period. Additional topics include the role of natural law in American political thought, the founders’ views on religion and liberty, debates surrounding slavery and the Declaration, and the importance of teaching younger generations the true story of America’s founding. The conversation also looks ahead to the upcoming America 250 celebrations and the opportunity to renew public understanding of the nation’s founding principles.

The Liberty + Leadership Podcast is hosted by TFAS president Roger Ream and produced by Podville Media. If you have a comment or question for the show, please email us at podcast@TFAS.org. To support TFAS and its mission, please visit TFAS.org/support.

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