The Declaration’s Bold Promise: Jefferson, Equality, and America’s Ongoing Struggle

In this special Independence Day episode of American Potential , guest David Gowdy—founder of the Virginia Institute for American History—joins host David From to explore the creation of America’s most iconic document: the Declaration of Independence. Gowdy shares how Thomas Jefferson, just 33 years old, drew from classical thinkers and the Virginia Declaration of Rights to pen the revolutionary words “all men are created equal.” The conversation dives into the meaning of this phrase, the influence of Jefferson’s ideas on Abraham Lincoln’s fight against slavery, and the contradiction of Jefferson’s personal slave ownership despite his public opposition to the institution. Gowdy also explains why understanding Jefferson’s view of rights as granted by the Creator—not the government—is crucial to preserving freedom today. Listen in for a thought-provoking discussion on the timeless principles that sparked a revolution, inspired generations, and continue to challenge Americans to live up to their founding ideals.