Founding Fathers, The

This audiobook is narrated by a digital voice. The roots of the American Revolution can be traced back to the early lives of the founding fathers, each shaped by distinct influences that would guide their future actions. Many were born into families of relatively modest means, but their educational backgrounds often set them apart from their peers. Figures like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin were introduced to classical education, with a focus on self-reliance and the values of Enlightenment thinkers. This early exposure to ideas about liberty, governance, and human rights would later resonate throughout their decisions in the years leading to independence. As these young men matured, the influence of European intellectual movements such as the Enlightenment became evident. Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke, Voltaire, and Montesquieu stressed the importance of natural rights, individual liberty, and the separation of powers. These philosophies shaped the thinking of many colonial leaders, who began to question the traditional roles of kings and monarchies in society. The ideas of equality and democratic participation inspired many of the founding fathers to envision a society where people could govern themselves. The growing discontent with British rule was another driving force behind the revolution. Colonists in America felt increasingly alienated from their British counterparts as laws, taxes, and restrictions began to encroach on their freedoms. The Stamp Act of 1765 and the Townshend Acts of 1767 were among the early sparks of resistance. These acts led to protests and growing resentment, as colonists argued that they should not be taxed without representation in the British Parliament.