The Times That Try Men’s Souls: America in 1776 and 2025

July 2: American Declaration of Independence is signed in Philadelphia, and ratified on July 4 – Public Domain

Two hundred forty nine years ago, at the beginning of the American Revolution, it was the prose of a newly arrived immigrant from England, Thomas Paine, that stirred the revolutionary spirit among everyday Americans.  His clarion call for unity, freedom from British rule and vision of America as a safe haven for liberty is etched in the nation’s memory:

“These are the times that try men’s souls.