In June and July of 1788, cities across the Atlantic coast erupted in celebrations to mark the ratification of the US Constitution, featuring parades that illustrated a brief unity across social classes. These events drew participants from a variety of professions—farmers, butchers, bricklayers, lawyers, and merchants—all marching together. The prominent role of skilled artisans in these parades highlighted their new-found significance in the public sphere and demonstrated broad urban support for the Constitution––examples, the authors argue, that emphasize The Evolving Concept of American Freedom.

They explain that during the Revolutionary era, the vision of the US as a “rising empire” of liberty, championed by figures like Thomas Jefferson, captured the imagination of the new nation. This empire, already larger than Great Britain, Spain, and France combined, was expected to expand westward to the Mississippi River, promoting liberty in adherence to the principles of the Declaration of Independence. Despite challenges such as British and Spanish control of strategic locations and a diverse and largely rural population, this vision shaped the young nation’s identity and aspirations.

America Under the Confederation

Adopted during the Revolutionary War, the Articles of Confederation were designed to maintain state sovereignty while providing a framework for mutual defense.