ClassSpark - Advice to My Country

Trace the origins of the republic and the pivotal influence of Virginia and Williamsburg in the early development of the United States.

Written near his death, James Madison’s sealed letter reveals insights into the early republic and the influential role Virginia and Williamsburg played in shaping it.

Thomas Jefferson described the Declaration of Independence as expressing the “American mind,” drawing on political and philosophical traditions that influenced the nation’s formation. Explore the role of philosophy in the foundation of a new nation.

In 1776, core political ideals and rising tensions shaped the Founders’ decision to declare independence from Britain. This Classroom Application episode is designed to accompany and enhance Advice To My Country: Foundations of Independence.

The Virginia Declaration of Rights set forth principles of liberty while asking, could the new republic endure, or would it collapse like so many before it? Explore the early foundations of the new American republic.

Evaluating information and identifying reliable sources supports the core values of republican government and informed citizenship. This Classroom Application episode is designed to accompany and enhance Advice To My Country: Republicanism, Representation, & Civic Virtue.

From the first revolutionary protests to the drafting of the Constitution, Americans wrestled with sovereignty and the shape of a new nation. Explore both sides of the federalism debate.

Early debates between Federalists and Anti-Federalists shaped the United States Constitution and continue to influence American political life today. This Classroom Application episode is designed to accompany and enhance Advice To My Country: Federalism.

The First Amendment to the United States Constitution was ratified in 1791. Take a closer look at how Virginia, Williamsburg, and James Madison played a role in the foundation of the Bill of Rights.

In 1791, Congress adopted the First Amendment, a cornerstone of the Constitution shaped by James Madison’s commitment to protecting essential American liberties. This Classroom Application episode is designed to accompany and enhance Advice To My Country: Madison and The First Amendment.

In colonial Virginia, slavery shaped every aspect of society and underpinned its leadership in the Revolution. Examine how colonists who cried for liberty also enslaved others.

In the revolutionary era, slavery stood as a central paradox in a nation founded on liberty. A contradiction revealed in surviving records, including historic ads written by enslavers. This Classroom Application episode is designed to accompany and enhance Advice To My Country: Slavery & Freedom.

Long before American independence, Williamsburg was already at the center of political life in Virginia. Explore how this area became a place for people to come together, to question, and chart a way forward.