A guest historian on MS NOW, Jon Meacham, made the case that the US as a multiracial, multiethnic democracy was not founded until 1965. He cited the Immigration and Nationality Act and the Voting Rights Act as key milestones in the development of this democracy.
Context of the Argument
Meacham’s argument comes ahead of the 250th anniversary of the Second Continental Congress passing the Declaration of Independence. He noted that while this event is often seen as the founding of the US, many people were not included in the initial experiment in self-government.
Meacham also expressed reverence for the Founding Fathers, stating that they were imperfect people who pushed the country toward more perfect outcomes. He emphasized the importance of honoring them by following their example and practicing what they preached.
Other commentators, such as Rev. Al Sharpton and Joy Reid, have also expressed reservations about celebrating the 250th anniversary of the US founding due to the nation’s history with slavery. Sharpton noted that African Americans were not emancipated until 1863, while Reid argued that Juneteenth is a more significant celebration of American freedom.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
