July 4, 2026 will be the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This year we need to rethink, and reaffirm it’s important principles. Its truths are universal, they are as true today as they were 250 years ago.
The Declaration of Independence did not establish a government. It set down principles. The Declaration set things up for The Constitution which did establish our government. The two documents are linked.
I want to lift up some speeches and other information that will help us understand the Declaration of Independence’s importance for our country.
Clarence Thomas speech at U T Austin
This is a great speech. He give much historical information and attempts to cancel the principles of the Declaration. He included good information about Abraham Lincoln and his unwavering dedication to the Declaration of Independence. Links follow.
Three versions
Here are links to Clarence Thomas’ speech.
- Short – last 16 minutes. Begin at 41:36 point of this video. (Also here on Twitter/X. )
- Medium – These are his full remarks on the Declaration of Independence. Begin at 19:23 point of this video.
- Long – These include Thomas’s introductory words, including remarks of gratitude about his education, upbringing, and service in the judicial system. Begin at 4:45 point of this video.
- See the entire video to see the introduction of the Honorable Justice Clarence Thomas. Begin at 0:00 point of this video.
A Few More Speeches and Articles
- The Declaration of Independence Still Defines America’s Purpose – Article from The Economist News Magazine, February 14, 2026.
- America 250 at Benjamin Franklin House – from the Benjamin Franklin House website.
- Today’s Firestorm and the Declaration – by Larry Arn of Hillsdale College. Audio or text. Addresses the Donald Trump factor.
I would we interested in other links to speeches or publications on the Declaration of Independence. Please email me (at JR-Olsen at wiu.edu).
