G. Edward Griffin - The Fearful Master - PDF Archive

complains about being subject to "a jurisdiction foreign to our Constitution and
unacknowledged by our laws" (supremacy of the World Court); it deplores "transporting
large armies of foreign mercenaries to complete the works of death, desolation and
tyranny already begun with circumstances of cruelty and perfidy scarcely paralleled in the
most barbarous acres and totally unworthy of the head of a civilized nation" (Katanga).
The men who put their signatures to the bottom of the Declaration of Independence were
signing their own potential death warrants. Most of them were prosperous and comfortably
situated with every reason to go along with the existing bureaucracy. Besides, what
chance did inexperienced farmers have against the British Army, at that time the most
invincible fighting force in the whole world? If the colonies had been overpowered, as it
appeared more than likely they would be, these men who signed the Declaration would
have all been banged or shot as traitors. Yet, without hesitation they stood up for what
they believed to be right and declared: ". . . and for the support of this declaration, with a
firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our
lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor."
In signing the Declaration of Independence, John Adams turned to his colleagues and
spoke these words:
If it be the pleasure of Heaven that my country shall require the poor
offering of my life, the victim shall be ready. But while I do live, let me
have a country, or at least the hope of a country-- and that a free
country. But whatever may be our fate, be assured . . . this declaration
will stand. It may cost treasure, and it may cost blood; but it will stand,
and it will richly compensate for both. . . . And live or die, survive or
perish, I am for the declaration. It is my living sentiment, and, by the
blessing of God, it shall be my dying sentiment: independence now, and
independence forever!
Can it be that modem Americans are not equal to their ancestors? Are we not willing, if
necessary, to make sacrifices in the cause of freedom? Is it more important to enjoy the
temporary comforts of the "good life," the security of a non-controversial social status, than
to pass on to our children the cherished liberty we ourselves inherited? As Patrick Henry
would have replied, "Forbid it, Almighty God!"
As you read these final words, you must come to a decision as to your own reply to these
questions. Each man and woman will soon be called upon for his answer. The rapidity of
world events will no longer permit us to remain aloof and unaffected by them. Disinterest
will no longer purchase a ticket for escape. Tyranny demands unqualified allegiance: We
are either for it or against it. There is no middle around.
Which will it be, America?
NOTES
1. Rev. Richard Ginder, "Key to Your House," syndicated column Right or Wrong, Our
Sunday Visitor (Huntington, Ind., 1961).
2. As quoted by Lie, p. 242.
3. As quoted by Manly, p. 82.