Timothy Sandefur on Proclaiming Liberty: John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and the Declaration of Independence

In this episode, Timothy Sandefur joins to discuss his new book, Proclaiming Liberty: John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and the Declaration of Independence, a fast-paced intellectual history that traces how John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and their contemporaries transformed centuries of political thought into the revolutionary principles of the Declaration of Independence—and why those principles still matter today. Blending biography, political thought, and legal history, Proclaiming Liberty traces the Declaration’s legacy through the abolitionist movement, the Civil War, and the modern age, documenting how its principles have continued to challenge tyranny, refute relativism, and inspire movements for justice. Julie Silverbrook, the chief content and learning officer at the National Constitution Center, moderates. Resources  Timothy Sandefur, Proclaiming Liberty: John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and the Declaration of Independence (2026) Stay Connected and Learn More Stay connected with Live at the National Constitution Center—follow, rate, and review the show wherever you listen. Questions or comments? Email ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠. Follow @ConstitutionCtr on social media and ⁠⁠⁠⁠sign up⁠⁠⁠⁠ to receive Constitution Weekly, our email roundup of constitutional news and debate. Support our important work by making a donation today. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Donate⁠