Declaring Independence: Why 1776 Still Matters

In this episode, Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Edward Larson discusses his newest book, Declaring Independence: Why 1776 Still Matters. This book traces the idea of American independence in one pivotal year—1776—and explores why this year continues to hold significance today. Jeffrey Rosen, president and CEO of the National Constitution Center, moderates. This program is generously sponsored by Citizen Travelers, the nonpartisan civic engagement initiative of Travelers. Resources Ed Larson, Declaring Independence: Why 1776 Matters (2025) Thomas Paine, Common Sense (1776) John Adams, Thoughts on Government (1776) George Mason, First Draft of the Virginia Declaration of Rights (1776) Stay Connected and Learn More Questions or comments about the show? Email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠ Continue the conversation by following us on social media @ConstitutionCtr Explore the⁠⁠⁠⁠America at 250 Civic Toolkit⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive Constitution Weekly, our email roundup of constitutional news and debate Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you listen Join us for an upcoming ⁠⁠⁠⁠live program⁠⁠⁠⁠ or watch recordings on ⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠ Support our important work ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Donate