America's bestselling biographer reveals the origins of the most revolutionary sentence in the Declaration of Independence, the one that defines who we are as Americans--and explains how it should shape our politics today."Isaacson uses a jeweler's loupe to scan what gives his snappy little book its engaging title....Isaacson skillfully teases fresh pith and resonance out of those familiar words." --The Wall Street Journal"A short, smart analysis of perhaps the most famous passage in American history reveals its potency and unfulfilled promise." --Kirkus Reviews To celebrate America's 250th anniversary, Walter Isaacson takes readers on a fascinating deep dive into the creation of one of history's most powerful sentences: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, 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." Drafted by Thomas Jefferson and edited by Benjamin Franklin and John Adams, this line lays the foundation for the American Dream and defines the common ground we share as a nation. Isaacson unpacks its genius, word by word, illuminating the then-radical concepts behind it. Readers will gain a fresh appreciation for how it was drafted to inspire unity, equality, and the enduring promise of America. With clarity and insight, he reveals not just the power of these words but describes how, in these polarized times, we can use them to restore an appreciation for our common values.
Book details
Format
Hardcover
Publication date
November 18, 2025
ISBN
9781982181314
Publisher
Simon & Schuster
Pages
80
Language
English
BISAC
History, United States, Revolutionary Period (1775-1800), Political Science, Political Ideologies, Democracy
For America's 250th, it is a great book to read. Not only does Isaacson celebrate every word but delves into what each sentence means. This should be a must read in high school and for every adult
