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July 4th, 2008: A trip down memory lane

A 1 question civics quizToday American's celebrate the Declaration of Independence, the legal foundation of the USA and, after the failure of the Articles of Confederation, the Constitution of the United States.I revere the Constitution as a magnificent piece of political engineering.
Written by Robin Harris, Contributor

A 1 question civics quiz Today American's celebrate the Declaration of Independence, the legal foundation of the USA and, after the failure of the Articles of Confederation, the Constitution of the United States.

I revere the Constitution as a magnificent piece of political engineering. But it takes people who remember what it says to make it work.

Here's a simple question: what is the President's highest duty under the Constitution?

To protect the American people? I've heard both Presidential candidates and the current officeholder claim that their number one duty is to "protect" the American people.

Baloney!

The Constitution gives the President an even higher duty.

That duty is embodied in the oath of office for President of the United States in Article II, Section 1 of the Constitution

"I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States."

That's it: ". . . preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States."

The security of the United States is based on the Constitution and the system it embodies, where Government operates under the rule of law, not men.

The Storage Bits take Storage is of little use if we don't access it - and that includes historical documents.

I urge all to re-read the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution this 4th of July.

Then enjoy your day off.

Comments welcome, of course.

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