America is defined by beautiful landscapes, laws, history, and character. That essence has developed through many figures in our history but all have had something in common—a love of liberty and a tenacity of Spirit.

Thomas Paine said, “I have sworn upon the altar of God, eternal hostility against every form of tyranny over the mind of man.”

As Americans, freedom of speech and expression is a legal and spiritual birthright, and overcoming tyranny, be it because of injustices or self-imposed, is our oldest pastime. Celebrate the tenacity of American character and the historical characters who have made it so.