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American Revolutionary War
Browse American Revolutionary War as a public-domain reading list on Rivro, with free classics, authors, subjects, and related books.
The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America
Thomas Jefferson
The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America
"The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America" by Thomas Jefferson is a founding document adopted in 1776. Written primarily by Jefferson between June 11 and June 28, it formally explains why the Thirteen Colonies declared independence from British rule. The document lists 27 grievances against King George III and asserts natural rights including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Its ratification on July 4, 1776, marked an act of treason against the Crown, transforming colonial delegates into America's Founding Fathers.
The United States Constitution
United States
The United States Constitution
"The United States Constitution" by United States is a foundational document drafted in 1787 and operational since 1789. Born from the failures of the Articles of Confederation, it establishes the supreme law of America through seven original articles defining federal government structure. Influenced by Enlightenment philosophy and English common law, it separates power among legislative, executive, and judicial branches. Twenty-seven amendments have since expanded individual rights and modified governmental processes, making it the world's oldest written national constitution still in force.
The United States Bill of Rights The Ten Original Amendments to the Constitution of the United States
United States
The United States Bill of Rights The Ten Original Amendments to the Constitution of the United States
"The United States Bill of Rights" by United States comprises the first ten amendments to the Constitution, proposed in 1789 and ratified in 1791. Born from fierce debate over constitutional ratification, these amendments address Anti-Federalist objections by guaranteeing personal freedoms including speech, religion, and assembly. Championed by James Madison, who initially opposed such enumeration, the Bill of Rights explicitly limits federal power while reserving unenumerated rights to states and citizens—establishing foundational protections that would later extend beyond federal governance.
Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death
Patrick Henry
Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death
"Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death" by Patrick Henry is a historic speech delivered in 1775, which serves as an impassioned call to arms during the American Revolution. The text falls within the genre of oratory, representing the fervent political discourse of the time. This pivotal moment reflects the prelude to conflict between the American colonies and British rule, highlighting the serious issues surrounding freedom and tyranny. In his speech, Henry passionately argues for the necessity of fighting against British oppression, cautioning his fellow countrymen against the false hope of reconciliation. He emphasizes the futility of peaceful negotiations and presents the situation as a stark choice between liberty and slavery. By invoking powerful imagery and appeals to human experience, he urges his audience to recognize the immediacy of the threat and the need for an armed response. The concluding declaration—"Give me liberty or give me death!"—serves as a rallying cry for those seeking independence, encapsulating the determination and urgency of the revolutionary spirit.