Founding Fathers of the United States

Gilbert Stuart Williamstown Portrait of George Washington

Official Presidential portrait of Thomas Jefferson (by Rembrandt Peale, 1800)(cropped)

Portraits and autograph signatures of the framers and signers of the Declaration of Independence, Philadelphia, July 4th, 1776 (NYPL Hades-292367-466033)

Joseph Siffrein Duplessis - Benjamin Franklin - Google Art Project

Alexander Hamilton portrait by John Trumbull 1806

Robert R Livingston, attributed to Gilbert Stuart (1755-1828)

Founding Fathers of the United States are a group of leaders who united the Thirteen Colonies, led the war for independence from Great Britain, and built a frame of government for the new United States of America during the late 18th century. Among the best known Founding Fathers are George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and Benjamin Franklin.

Early History

The term "Founding Fathers" was coined by Warren G. Harding in 1916. Before this, they were generally referred to as the "Fathers" or the "Founders". The group is characterized by their strong beliefs in liberty, democracy, republicanism, and in some cases, federalism. They were a diverse group of individuals, with different backgrounds, occupations, and philosophies, but they shared a commitment to establishing a strong and independent nation.

Key Figures

George Washington is often referred to as the "Father of His Country" for his leadership during the American Revolution and his service as the first President of the United States. Thomas Jefferson, the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, served as the third President and was a proponent of democracy, republicanism, and individual rights, influencing the development of American self-government and political philosophy. James Madison, known as the "Father of the Constitution", played a critical role in drafting and promoting the United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Alexander Hamilton, the founder of the nation's financial system, the Federalist Party, the United States Coast Guard, and the New York Post newspaper, was a key figure in interpreting and promoting the Constitution. Benjamin Franklin was a leading author, printer, political theorist, politician, Freemason, postmaster, scientist, inventor, humorist, civic activist, statesman, and diplomat, known for his wit and wisdom, as well as his scientific achievements.

Contributions

The Founding Fathers made significant contributions to the establishment of the United States as a sovereign nation. Their actions led to the drafting of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, which announced the colonies' separation from Great Britain. Following the American Revolutionary War, the Founding Fathers participated in the drafting of the Constitution in 1787, which established the framework of the federal government and the system of checks and balances that remains in place today.

Legacy

The legacy of the Founding Fathers is evident in the enduring strength of the United States Constitution, the continued relevance of the Federalist Papers, and the widespread commemoration of their leadership and contributions to American independence and governance. Their vision and actions laid the foundation for the United States' political system and its values of liberty, equality, and democracy.

Criticism and Controversy

The Founding Fathers have also been the subject of criticism and controversy. Some of their actions and policies, particularly regarding slavery and the treatment of Native Americans, have been criticized for not aligning with the ideals of liberty and equality that they espoused. The fact that many of the Founding Fathers were slave owners has sparked debate about their legacy and the contradictions between their advocacy for freedom and their personal practices.

Conclusion

The Founding Fathers of the United States were instrumental in the country's birth and early development. Their vision, leadership, and contributions continue to influence the United States and its citizens. Despite the controversies surrounding some of their actions, their legacy as champions of liberty and democracy remains a central part of American history and identity.