Tag Archives: American Revolution

The Founders vs. Dostoyevsky’s Inquisitor

By Robin Bates | Published: May 5, 2024

Christian nationalists have the same objections to democracy that Dostoyevsky’s Grand Inquisitor has to Christ’s vision.

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Washington’s Last Gift to Us

By Robin Bates | Published: September 18, 2023

Today is the anniversary of Washington’s momentous “Farewell Address.” To honor his decision to voluntarily relinquish power, here’s a Phillis Wheatley poem.

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Shelley on Commemorating Freedom

By Robin Bates | Published: July 1, 2021

Shelley’s “Hellas,” written in support of Greek independence, applies well to this year’s July 4th celebrations.

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Figaro: The Play That Spurred a Revolution

By Robin Bates | Published: November 30, 2016

In “Marriage of Figaro,” Beaumarchais took the “clever servant” trope and turned into into a vehicle for revolutionary ideals. The play can be seen as having paved the way for the French Revolution.

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Who Owns the American Revolution?

By Robin Bates | Published: September 27, 2010

Ever since Barack Obama was elected, we’ve been hearing claims that his presidency is illegitimate. Any number of people—including some who should know better—are draping themselves in revolutionary garb. This includes those responsible for the Republicans’ recent Pledge to America, where the authors declare “the governed do not consent.” The reference, of course, is to the […]

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