The Founders, the First Freedom, and Us, with David French

The American Revolution took place against a backdrop of long religious conflict in both Europe and the colonies. Yet despite their personal flaws and their varied faith views, the Founders embraced the radical principle of freedom of conscience and religious expression, instilling it not only in our Constitution, but in the fabric of our society. What is the story behind this extraordinary development? And what does this legacy of religious pluralism mean for Christians in the much more complex America of 2026?

As we celebrate America’s founding in this 250th anniversary year, we’ll discuss this story and what it means for us today with Trinity Forum Senior Fellow David French. As a longtime religious freedom litigator before becoming a New York Times columnist, he’ll guide us in considering the discussions during the founding, and their implications for today.

As background for the conversation, check out our recent Trinity Forum Reading: George Washington and the First Freedom, featuring the first President’s powerful statements on freedom of conscience.

This episode was recorded as a Trinity Forum Online Conversation in 2026. You can view the transcript and other resources here.

Special thanks to Interfaith America for supporting this episode.