The Twin Revolutions of 1776

Join David Scudder, chair of the Ipswich Museum finance committee, in a reflection on the lasting impact of the Twin Revolutions of 1776. The American Revolution of 1776, with its well-known battles on Bunker Hill, the crossing of the Delaware, and the final defeat of the British at Yorktown, brought forth ideas and principles that truly stand the test of time in any revolution. The Declaration of Independence proudly sets forth America’s best ideals – “all men are created equal” and “all have inalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness”. This heralded a revolution in governmental thinking. During March of 1776, another revolution of thought also occurred- this time economic. Adam Smith published his second book, “The Wealth of Nations”. In its nearly 900 pages, he put forth a theory of commerce that promised not only rapid economic growth but a very fair sharing of that growth. Over the course of 250 years, the ideals and goals of these separate revolutions have been tested and not always fully realized. The impact of the Twin 1776 Revolutions continue to influence and determine the way of life in the United States today.

Free for members. $10 for non-members.