Episode 90 of 100 · 5-Minute Videos

Liberty: What Did the Founders Mean?

Government — American History · Government — American Government · Government — Modern World History · History · Captions

About This Video

When Thomas Jefferson wrote about “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” he wasn’t just using poetic language—he was laying down a radical vision for a free society. But what did he and the Founders really mean by “liberty?”  And how has that definition changed over time?  Robert George, Professor of Jurisprudence at Princeton University, explains.

Standards Met in Ohio

  • AMG.9-12.14.lp.dGrades 9th, 10th, 11th, 12thSelf-advocate for own rights.
  • AMH.9-12.5.lp.dGrades 9th, 10th, 11th, 12thSelf-advocate for own rights.
  • MWH.9-12.6cGrades 9th, 10th, 11th, 12thIdentify one of the Rights of Man.