SAN ANTONIO, Texas — More than 200 years ago, our country was founded under the concept of self-government. No longer would a "holier than thou" benefactor dictate how the masses should live their lives. The king had been replaced by the individual. Every single citizen was guaranteed the natural right to "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." The government ceased controlling the people. Instead, the people controlled the government.
This concept was new. It was vastly different from other nations of the time. But the codification of this new-found freedom was not guaranteed. In fact, the first attempt failed, and a new constitution would be required. Nothing more shows the concern of the everyday inhabitants than the story of the woman who asked Benjamin Franklin, as he exited Independence Hall, "Sir, what type of government do we have?"
"A republic, if you can keep it," replied the aged statesmen.
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