Thirteen Colonies and the Mother Country
Political cartoons of the late 18th Century often used rebus puzzles like this one that reads: “Great Britain toe (to) my dear Daughter Amer (eye) ca.”
John Hartvigsen
A detail showing flags pictured in John Trumbull’s painting of the Declaration of Independence’s signing.
The United States and the United Kingdom have been strong allies and friends for over a century, and the American Revolution notwithstanding, the special relationship the two nations share stretches deep into American culture. Indeed, before the difficulties that led up to the Revolutionary War, Britain and her North American Colonies had a familial relationship of Mother Country and offspring anxious to grow up to be like Mother.
18th Century political cartoons often depicted Britain and her North American Colonies as Mother and Daughter. When independence came, that did not sever common heritage and the United States of America inherited many traits from the Great Britain, and the list is longer that most Americans would realize.
Independence was hard one, with eight long years of bitter conflict. Nevertheless, the founders of the new republic didn’t discard everything British simply because of association with a former enemy. In that way, we showed confidence on our independence.
During these few days leading up to America’s Independence Day, let’s consider a few things an independent United States inherited from their Colonial Mother Country. There are many inherited traits, but here are a few we can consider:
- The Idea of Union and Our Name.
- The Pattern of Government for Our New Republic
- The Pattern and Colors of Our Flag
- The Melodies of Our Patriotism
Join with us Tuesday through Friday of Independence Day Week culminating on Saturday, July 4, 2020 with a posting giving 21st Century meaning to the Independence as we continue our national journey together.