Independence Day, Pursuit of Happiness, and the Rule of Law

Our Independence Day foreshadowed a new era, not only in personal freedom, but in recognizing rights in property and business – or the pursuit of happiness – as the Founders put it.

The rule of law, recognized that day, heralded an explosive growth in business opportunities and the ability of ordinary people to pursue them. Of the 56 signers of the Declaration, 25 were lawyers. And lawyers outnumbered merchants and plantation owners, the two next most common jobs held by the signers.

So, on this day, remember the rule of law and how it helps propel true business enterprise as a part of the great American experiment that continues today. Not controlled by the whims of a single man or a mob screaming “enemies of the people”, but by steady, consistent, and impartial application of easily understood rules, allowing liberty to flourish for all.