"A republic, if they can keep it."

 

Benjamin Franklin allegedly answered Elizabeth Powel's question on September 17, 1787 the day after the Constitutional Convention, "Is it a democracy or a republic?" He said, "A republic, if they can keep it."

Next year America will celebrate its 250th anniversary of the start of the American Revolution at Lexington and Concord in 1776. The first few years were rocky as each state jockeyed for position. The resulting Constitution to solve those situations held through wars, slavery, women getting the vote, growth, recessions, depressions and corruption. 

The Constitution wasn't perfect: it worked more than it didn't. When it failed, it was the fault of corrupt, stupid and/or ignorant men.

The country also accomplished impressive actions, ending slavery, equal rights legislation, although reality those two things have never been completely achieved, walking on the moon, scientific discoveries, jazz, art, theater, movies and more.

The question now is will the country make it to their 250th. The alleged head of the country is insane and slowly creating a military take over of the parts of the country he perceives as his enemy. He is talking about sending the 82nd Airborne Division into Portland. He is defying judicial rulings.

Maybe 4 July 2026 will be more a day of mourning than celebration. I hope not.

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