The Brian Lehrer Show 1776's No Kings
Nov 24, 2025
Edward J. Larson, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and law professor at Pepperdine University, dives into the significance of 1776 and how it redefined American identity. He discusses how the British bombardment of Norfolk swayed colonial opinion and the impact of Thomas Paine's "Common Sense" in altering perceptions of monarchy. Larson reveals early patriots’ initial aim of defending rights as subjects before evolving towards full independence. He also highlights the emergence of state constitutions and the revolutionary motives surrounding slavery and expansion.
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January 1776 As The Turning Point
- The burning of Norfolk, publication of the king's speech, and Common Sense in January 1776 transformed colonial resistance into a push for independence.
- These events reframed the conflict from rights as subjects to rejecting authoritarian monarchy and embracing republican government.
Common Sense Reframes The Problem
- Thomas Paine's Common Sense reframed the problem as authoritarian rule by a king rather than merely parliamentary taxation.
- Paine argued for representative republican government and convinced leaders like Washington and Jefferson to shift their rhetoric.
Loyalists Were Once A Powerful Force
- Before 1776, loyalists were a substantial portion of the population and included many leading figures who initially sought rights as subjects.
- By the end of 1776 the balance shifted toward independence, though many loyalists later emigrated to Canada or British territories.
