Tag Archives: Declaration of Independence

A Vow is Only as Good as an Oath

Posted on by April 30, 2010

Every public servant, such as a judge, Senator, or Congressman, makes a personal oath when entering into such a position. It is required by the Constitution.

The Presidential Oath is set forth in the Constitution as: “I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my Ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.”

When being sworn in as our first President, George Washington spontaneously added the words: “so help me God.”  This has becoome a traditional part of the Oath of office. read more

Thomas Jefferson: The Law Gave Him a View of the “Dark Side.”

Posted on by March 11, 2010

Peter Jefferson left this dying declaration regarding his son, Tom: “. . . Tom should receive a thorough classical education.” And Peter died when Tom was only 14, but he left him sufficient funds for such an education.  And then some.

At age 16, Tom dedided he should apply for entrance into the College of William and Mary at Williamsburg, Virginia. Just a few weeks before his 17th birthday he received the results of his entrance examinations. His outstanding results allowed Tom to be admitted into an advanced class in the school of philosophy. Tom would reside in Williamsburg for the next 7 years. read more

John Adams: Why Did You Want to Be A Lawyer?

Posted on by March 9, 2010

John Adams, the second President of the United States, was given his father’s name. John was athletic as a youth, and his father noticed he was extremely bright. John loved and excelled at ice-skating, wrestling and swimming.  But at an early age he didn’t care too much for books or learning, and saw no sense in talk of college. He wished only to become a farmer.

John’s father, though decided that his son should go to Harvard College and become a minister. John entered college at the then typical-for-the-time young age of 15. Most young men went to Harvard College to learn one of the three prominent vocations taught there. One would become a minister, a teacher, or a lawyer. read more