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🇫🇷 France /Culture & Society

US Founders Would Be Horrified by Today's Independence Day, Says Historian

From Libération · () French

Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

Interview Named sources Context piece
  • Historian Edward G. Lengel believes the U.S. Founding Fathers would be horrified by the current national celebration.
  • Lengel criticizes Donald Trump's appropriation of the Independence Day festivities.
  • He expresses concern for the future of American democracy and its founding principles.

The United States' 250th anniversary is approaching, but historian Edward G. Lengel suggests the nation's founders would be appalled by its current state. Lengel, a specialist on George Washington, argues that the spirit of the Declaration of Independence is being undermined.

Lengel specifically criticizes former President Donald Trump for what he calls a "hold-up" of the Independence Day celebrations. He believes Trump's politicization of the holiday distorts its original meaning. The historian also points to the diminished role of women and France's crucial contribution to the American Revolution, elements he feels are overlooked in contemporary narratives.

the Founding Fathers would be horrified by this national celebration version Trump

— Edward G. LengelLengel's assessment of the current national celebration compared to the founders' intentions.

Reflecting on the foundational principles of American democracy, Lengel expresses deep concern for the country's future. He fears that the current political climate and the erosion of democratic norms pose a significant threat to the system established by the Founding Fathers. His remarks highlight a critical perspective on American identity and its trajectory.

the founders would be horrified by this national celebration version Trump

— Edward G. LengelLengel's critical view on the politicization of national holidays.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Libération in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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