The Daily Stoic Historian Thomas Ricks on Stoicism and the Founders
Jan 9, 2021
Thomas Ricks, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of 'First Principles', engages in a thought-provoking discussion about Stoicism and its impact on the Founding Fathers. He delves into how classical philosophies like Stoicism shaped America's ideals and the current political landscape. Ricks examines the virtues of leadership, contrasting historical figures with today's leaders. He also highlights Madison's vision of checks and balances, stressing the essential qualities of character in governance and the lessons we can learn from history.
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Cato at Valley Forge
- George Washington had Cato, a play about ancient Rome, performed for his troops at Valley Forge.
- This surprisingly boosted morale during a difficult time in the American Revolution.
Founders and the Classics
- The Founding Fathers had varying levels of familiarity with classical texts.
- Washington absorbed knowledge through popular culture, while Jefferson read Seneca in Latin.
Self-Made Figures
- Both Cicero and John Adams consciously shaped their personas after their own ideals.
- This self-madeness is admirable, even though both figures had flaws.
