Why was the ideal of equality problematic in 1776?
The year 1776 marked a significant turning point in human history, as it witnessed the birth of two of the most influential documents of modern times: the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States. The Declaration of Independence, in particular, heralded the revolutionary idea that “all men are created equal,” which became the cornerstone of American democracy. However, this ideal of equality was fraught with problems and complexities, especially in the context of 1776. This article aims to explore the reasons why the ideal of equality was problematic in that year.
Firstly, the concept of equality in 1776 was largely limited to white, male property owners. The term “all men” did not encompass women, slaves, or Native Americans, who were excluded from the American Revolution and its ideals. This exclusionary nature of the equality ideal was a reflection of the social and economic structures of the time, which were deeply rooted in racism, sexism, and classism. The fact that the Declaration of Independence was signed by white, male founders who owned slaves or were benefiting from the institution of slavery underscores the contradiction between the ideal of equality and the reality of inequality.
Secondly, the equality ideal was problematic because it was based on the flawed premise that all individuals were equal by nature. This assumption overlooked the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities of people, leading to a one-size-fits-all approach to governance and policy-making. The founders of the United States, for instance, failed to recognize the inherent differences between people and the varying needs of different groups. This oversight resulted in policies that favored the interests of the wealthy and powerful, while neglecting the needs of the marginalized and vulnerable.
Thirdly, the equality ideal was problematic because it was often used as a rhetorical tool to justify the expansion of American territory and the displacement of Native Americans. The Declaration of Independence claimed that the American Revolution was fought to secure “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness” for all individuals, but this promise was not extended to the indigenous peoples who inhabited the land. The forced removal of Native Americans from their ancestral lands, such as the Trail of Tears, demonstrated the hypocrisy of the equality ideal in practice.
Lastly, the equality ideal was problematic because it was not immediately realized in the lives of ordinary Americans. The Declaration of Independence was a revolutionary document that set the stage for future generations to strive for equality, but it did not guarantee equality in the immediate aftermath of the American Revolution. In fact, the early years of the United States were marked by widespread discrimination, oppression, and violence against various marginalized groups. The struggle for equality would continue to be a central issue in American history, long after 1776.
In conclusion, the ideal of equality in 1776 was problematic due to its exclusionary nature, flawed premise, use as a rhetorical tool, and the failure to immediately realize its promise. Despite these challenges, the Declaration of Independence remains a powerful symbol of the human quest for equality, and its legacy continues to inspire people to fight for a more just and inclusive society.
