A quick post this morning before everyone gets on with their 4th of July celebrations. With America's mid-summer FESTIVAL OF FREEDOM occurring this year on a Wednesday, time is of the essence. At least everyone agrees that Thursday, July 5, 2012 will be among the least productive days of the year.
Stephen and I may have our political differences, but as a band of one hit wonders once said, our mutual love for America is like a river running soul deep. In preparation for the 236th anniversary of our Declaration of Independence, we're ranking our top five favorite moments in American history.
These are issued with the qualifier that there was an incomprehensible amount to choose from in this assessment, so while I can't speak for Stephen, my list may be at least as reflective of the first five things that came to my head as it is of a carefully chosen five greatest moments.
Without further adieu, then, counting down our five greatest moments:
(5)
Matt: Going a bit more unconventional with this one, because the Miracle on Ice deserves to be on here somewhere. If there is one sports victory that symbolizes the story of America, it's the hockey triumph of a team of unheralded amateur Americans over the heavily-favored Russians in the 1980 Olympics. That the game was in the dregs of the Cold War and had geopolitical significance, even only superficially, makes it all the better.
(4)
Stephen: Manifest Destiny. The exploration and conquering of the West.
Matt: Building of the railroads, preceded by the building of the canals. America's first major infrastructure projects, which set the stage for the United States to become an industrial powerhouse.
(3)
Stephen: "We hold these truths to be self evident" - the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and accompanying revolt of a small band of colonists against one of the greatest empires in the history of the world. From day one it seemed nearly inevitable that this nation would be powerful, if just by the willpower of its people.
Matt: The progressive reform, women's suffrage, and civil rights movements of the 20th century. We've got more work to do, but the task of making good on America's political and economic promises began here.
(2)
Stephen: "One small step" - the NASA moon landing
Matt: Have to agree with Steve here, in addition to a psychological victory over the Soviet Union, the Space Race heralded unprecedented technological advances that remain with us today, including my #1...
(1)
Stephen: "Mr Gorbachev tear down this wall" the winning of the Cold War, proving economic and political freedom > communism
Matt: The invention of the internet, right here in the United States. No other modern invention has had such a political, cultural, and economic impact on the world, all while bringing people closer together than ever before.
If there's something you think we left off the list, be sure to tell us all about it in the comments. Wherever you are today, be sure to celebrate our great country - if you're looking for a little bit of musical Americana, I would recommend looking no further than one Ray Charles...
Happy Independence Day.
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