So, what’s the big idea?

In 1787, at the closing of the Constitutional Convention, as the copies of the document were being sent from the Philadelphia Statehouse to the various state legislatures for their approval, an inquisitive woman asked Benjamin Franklin what kind of government the Constitution would bring to the Americas. His reply was simple:

“A Republic, if you can keep it.”

Franklin’s warning is one that has echoed through the history of the United States, serving as a reminder that the only thing which could stop tyranny from claiming this nation would be the people themselves. Since its inception, this nation has served as a beacon to define the virtues of democracy, individual liberty, and freedom to the rest of the world. Where other cultures suffer under the weight of oppression brought by dictators and oligarchs, we have shown that there is a better way. As citizens of this nation, it is our duty to uphold this tradition, to fight and refuse tyranny in any form it takes, even when it whispers sweet promises in exchange for power.

The true might of the government comes not from the size of its coffers, nor the arsenal held in its bunkers, but from the graceful will and support of the people. The true fear of those in government is that the people should pay attention to their actions, and demand from them a responsible and just ownership.

The primary purpose of Torches & Pitchforks is to cover and discuss those happenings going on in the news world. It’s primary editor ( <waves> ) identifies himself as a conservative libertarian, a capitalist, and a firm optimist. So, with that out of the way, expect plenty of bias – not towards parties, nor any person in particular, but towards the fundamental ideas of individual liberty and limited government upon which this country was founded.

We’ll make this fun, I promise.

–J.L.