That was certainly the case in 1776, when the declaration launched a new nation with a document listing the 27 defects of a leader who was “unfit to be the ruler of a free people” because he had the character of “a Tyrant”. George III’s catalogue of offenses included “cutting off our trade with all parts of the world”, discouraging immigration, sending “swarms of officers to harass our people” and “transporting us beyond seas to be tried for pretended offenses”. Ring any bells?
It’s not a perfect fit; at times the declaration does not feel progressive at all, with harsh language about “merciless Indian savages” and a painful reference to “domestic insurrections” – a euphemism for slave rebellions.
But its timeless language about equality, rights and the consent of the governed has served as a check on government overreach ever since it was written. It is the ultimate No Kings statement…
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/ng-interactive/2026/jul/04/250-years-declaration-of-independence?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other
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