Fourth on the Fifth

The letter John Adams wrote on the 3rd, plus the reason why I'm not really writing about student loans after all. Also, 7 other things worth your time.

We’ve had a lot of new subscribers over the last few days. Thank you and welcome! You’re starting off with an unusual holiday edition of Understandably, but we think it’s a good one. And hey, there’s a lot of other great stuff coming up soon. Stick around!

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Fourth on the Fifth

Imagine you’re John Adams. You’re proud to be in Philadelphia in July 1776 as the rebellious colonies declare their independence from the King of Great Britain, and proud to have played an important role in that historic moment.

You write home confidently to your wife, Abigail:

The Second Day of July 1776, will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America.

I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival.

It ought to be commemorate…