A few years ago, a friend of mine pointed out that the real revolution in America was not when it gained its independence from Britain in 1776 (or 1781, depending on whose authority one relies).
The real revolution in America was when George Washington’s presidency ended and the second president John Adam’s term began. According to my friend, this was the first time in history that power changed hands in this manner with absolutely no bloodshed. I doubt his “first in history" claim, but the whole thing was very revolutionary. This was the point at which America’s new democracy was tested: John Adams was voted into office, Washington stepped down, and no one started a civil war over the succession. Unbelievable!
This American Independence Day, I’m particularly aware of how good we have it in this country. In spite of all the times we feel we’re being screwed over by those in power (both public and private), I’ve got to admit that our country is pretty amazing. Our Constitution has been tested and amended and upheld time and time again, and our leaders continue to change power again and again (with only a few assassinations).
My heart goes out to the people of Egypt, and to so many others, who have tried the “great experiment" of democracy and have not quite made it there. It seems so easy to overthrow an old government and set up a new one with democratic laws. But it’s so hard to keep that new government from ending up like the old one, from accumulating and holding onto power like the old one. And, when that happens, it seems like all you can do is try again—and hope. Best, best wishes to them.
