The phrase “consent of the governed” in the Declaration of Independence is freedom-centric. If we don’t truly understand it, we may be led to believe our government is insufficient to leading a fulfilling life.
When our earliest Americans were still colonists, they eventually wanted to live independently from the Mother Country (England). Not all of them, of course, but enough were willing to risk their lives for freedom.
The difference between the British form of government and our Constitutional Republic is consent. Consider this:
British kings are born into their position of leadership. A king’s job is to provide for and take care of the people who are called “subjects,” not citizens. Why are they called “subjects?” Because their job is to obey the king. He rules. They obey. They are not citizens, but subject to the king’s will.
American presidents are voted into office by the consent of We the People. American presidents are limited in their time in office by the law, not by their heritage. The President’s job is to enforce the laws that Congress passes. They take an oath to execute the office of President of the United States faithfully, and to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution and to be the Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces. We the People have the responsibility to remain vigilant in maintaining our freedom by living, acting, and voting responsibly, and by knowing our foundational documents: the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.
Patrick Henry spoke of our clear obligation as citizens: “The battle, sir, is not to the strong alone; it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave …
… Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery [to a monarchy]?
Giving consent isn’t just voting once—it’s a steady commitment to understand the founding documents and expect government to serve the people, not rulers.
This is Common Sense Civics and Citizenship. 🇺🇸
