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Our city was founded prior to the Revolutionary War, and those early settlers were instrumental in helping fight for this country's independence. Tremendous sacrifices were made by men who wanted no more than we want today - to live in a free society.
With that freedom comes burdens which are often overlooked.
Jefferson said, "The price of liberty is eternal vigilance," and he was quick to point out that we should be "watchful of those in power." He stated that the natural progression of government was for bureaucracy to gain ground and thus - liberties to become eroded.
Are we vigilant with watching what our government leaders are doing which may lead to the erosion our personal liberties?
In 1775, the residents of this region were willing to put it all on the line when they published the The Mecklenburg Declaration and the Mecklenburg Resolves.
As residents of this region, I hope we will all stop and consider what it means to be the recipients of the freedom that our forefathers fought for right here on this soil . . .
HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!!!!
(Excerpt from link below)
The MecDec Historical Timeline
The rebellious history of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County parallels the rebellious culture of its colonial inhabitants. Consider the Ulster Scots, also called Scotch-Irish, who came to the States from British-controlled Northern Ireland. They came largely as indentured servants, not surprisingly bringing with them a hatred of British oppression.
These Ulster Scots were tough and accustomed to a harsh life. They were known for their independent spirit, strong work ethic and hot tempers. They held the firm belief that all men were equal, and they had a natural distaste for any authority, especially British authority.
Since Ulster Scots accounted for a significant part of North Carolina’s population in the 1760s, it seems only natural the MecDec and the Revolution would soon follow.
The Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence has a very rich and interesting history. Below are the major events that have occurred, bringing us to where we are today.
The May 20th Society - Celebrating the Spirit of Mecklenburg | MecDec Timeline (http://www.may20thsociety.org/2008/mecdec.htm - broken link)
Nice article. History books seem to focus on the Revolutionary War battles in the northeast, ie. Lexington, Concord, Newburg, etc. The most decisive battles that enabled the Colonists to overwhelm the British were actually fought in our area. We really don't hear much about Cowan's Ford (Lake Norman), Kings Mountain, Cowpens, Camden and numerous other battles in this area.
It is also interesting to note that our roots (mostly from the British Isles) are what makes this part of the country unique, ie. accents, religion, music, Presbyterian work ethic, temperments, etc.
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