Our founding fathers didn’t caress or flatter, unlike our politicians today. In earlier times, they earned Americans’ loyalty. They established the rule of law, conquered a continent, achieved brave victories on land and sea — themselves serving in the field – and forged the strongest, wealthiest nation in history. They earned a renown greater than nearly anyone else in history.

Such was their esteem among Americans. What manner of men they were at home, in public or in private life — look around you and see. Out of the meager wealth of the state they set up for our delight so many just laws, great buildings, and noble acts, that we must despair of ever surpassing them. Yet in private they were so modest, so careful to obey the spirit of liberty, that the houses of their famous men, of Jackson or of Coolidge, are not a bit more splendid than those of their neighbors. For selfish greed had no place in their statesmanship, but each thought it his duty to further the common welfare. And so, by their good faith towards their fellow Americans, their respect to our principles, and their equality with us all, we built a great nation.

Such was our condition in those days under great leaders; but what’s our condition today, thanks to our current “worthy” statesmen? Is it the same? Is it anything like the same? We were set up for success — Germany and Japan occupied, the Soviets crushed, and no other nation able to challenge us. We should be enjoying our own success and helping create success for others, yet we’ve been robbed of our rights and owe trillions wasted on useless baubles. Our statesmen in peace lost us the allies we gained in war, and have provided a training ground for new rivals. If this isn’t true, tell me: who made China powerful if not us?