The Declaration Of Independence Analysis
Probably the most fitting connection between the literature of the American Revolution and contemporary works is made through Lin-Manuel Miranda’s recent hit musical Hamilton. This musical is not only based off of the events and people of the revolutionary era, but also draws modern parallels in themes that make the ideas of the mid-eighteenth century relevant today. The situation and sentiments that brought about The Declaration of Independence are reflected in those of Hamilton, showing the relevance of political literature in the past to the present. The Declaration of Independence expresses the concern of immigrants that their government was not paying attention to them. A new culture had formed in America that didn’t fit with old
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There is a rooted belief reflected in The Declaration that “all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” (US 1776). This belief is reflected in Hamilton but goes beyond the issues of that era, a time where slavery and oppression were still prominent, to encompass modern issues of gender and race equality. Angelica Schuyler is depicted adding to the iconic lines above, “And when I meet Thomas Jefferson…I’m ‘a compel him to include women in the sequel!” Thus, she confirms that the principles in The Declaration are true, but that it’s also time to step it up and ensure equality for all. In Hamilton it’s also mentioned that “we’ll never be truly free/Until those in bondage have the same rights as you and me” (Miranda). This statement forms a parallel between slavery and the current struggles against racism that some are still fighting for. This connection is particularly relevant in a time when the cry of “black lives matter” has become a rallying call. Jefferson discusses “a history of repeated injuries and usurpations” which many people today feel like is the situation against minorities today and are standing up with a similar sentiment to fight (US 1776). Whether one agrees or not with the seriousness of minority grievances, it’s fascinating to see how the thoughts and
There is a rooted belief reflected in The Declaration that “all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” (US 1776). This belief is reflected in Hamilton but goes beyond the issues of that era, a time where slavery and oppression were still prominent, to encompass modern issues of gender and race equality. Angelica Schuyler is depicted adding to the iconic lines above, “And when I meet Thomas Jefferson…I’m ‘a compel him to include women in the sequel!” Thus, she confirms that the principles in The Declaration are true, but that it’s also time to step it up and ensure equality for all. In Hamilton it’s also mentioned that “we’ll never be truly free/Until those in bondage have the same rights as you and me” (Miranda). This statement forms a parallel between slavery and the current struggles against racism that some are still fighting for. This connection is particularly relevant in a time when the cry of “black lives matter” has become a rallying call. Jefferson discusses “a history of repeated injuries and usurpations” which many people today feel like is the situation against minorities today and are standing up with a similar sentiment to fight (US 1776). Whether one agrees or not with the seriousness of minority grievances, it’s fascinating to see how the thoughts and