Learn the key events, principles, and documents of the founding of the United States of America and why they matter to Latter-day Saints today.
This article is one in a series about principles of freedom and religious liberty. It is based on principles from the book American Principles of Freedom: A Latter-day Saint Perspective, which celebrates the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. Read other articles in the series #America250.
The founding of the United States of America was one of the most important events in modern history. Latter-day Saints believe it helped prepare the way for the Restoration of the gospel by establishing constitutional freedoms and protecting moral agency.
The principles established by the founders continue to influence freedom throughout the world. Here are a few key things every Latter-day Saint should understand about the American founding.
The Declaration of Independence
In 1776, the American colonies declared independence from Great Britain. The Declaration of Independence explained why the colonies believed they had the right to govern themselves. It also introduced principles that still shape American government today.
One of the most important statements declared that all people “are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights.” The founders believed that rights come from God, not from government. That idea closely aligns with restored gospel teachings about agency, divine worth, and accountability.
The Constitution
After independence, the founders created the United States Constitution. The Constitution established:
- A national government
- Separation of powers
- Checks and balances
- Rule of law
- Protection of individual rights
The Constitution divided power among three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. The founders believed that dividing power would help prevent tyranny and protect liberty.
Latter-day Saints believe the Constitution was inspired by God. The Lord declared, “I established the Constitution of this land, by the hands of wise men whom I raised up unto this very purpose…” (Doctrine and Covenants 101:80)
The Bill of Rights
The first ten amendments to the Constitution are called the Bill of Rights. These amendments protect freedoms such as, religion, speech, press, assembly, and due process under the law.
Religious freedom became especially important for the Restoration. This allowed Joseph Smith to organize the Church, publish scripture, and preach openly because constitutional protections existed in early America.
President Dallin H. Oaks taught, “The United States Constitution is unique because God revealed that He ‘established’ it ‘for the rights and protection of all flesh’ (Doctrine and Covenants 101:77; see also verse 80).” (“Defending Our Divinely Inspired Constitution, April 2021 General Conference)
The Founders Understood Human Nature
The founders knew that people are imperfect. Because of this, they created a system with limits on power and protections for liberty. They believed freedom works best when citizens practice virtue, honesty, responsibility, and self-government.
John Adams warned, “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.” (Address to the Massachusetts Militia, 1798) Strong families, faith communities, and moral values help free societies remain stable.
What This Means for Us
The principles of the American founding continue to influence daily life today. Constitutional freedoms protect:
- Worship according to conscience
- Freedom of speech
- Peaceful civic participation
- Equal treatment under the law
- The ability to teach faith in the home
These freedoms also help the gospel spread throughout the world. The Constitution of the United States has served as a model for many nations and is an inspired document.
What Latter-day Saints Can Do
Church leaders encourage members to be informed, responsible citizens. Latter-day Saints can:
- Study the scriptures and founding documents
- Respect the rights of others
- Participate thoughtfully in civic life
- Defend religious freedom
- Teach correct principles in the home
- Use freedom responsibly
The American founding was not perfect, but it established principles that have blessed millions of people. For Latter-day Saints, those principles matter because they help protect moral agency and create conditions where faith and truth can flourish.
Learn more:
- Articles about about religious freedom and moral agency.
- Read the book American Principles of Freedom: A Latter-day Saint Perspective.
How to access the book
- Read or download a free PDF.
- Purchase on Amazon as a paperback for only $8.95 or get as Kindle or audiobook free with your membership
- Purchase on Lulu as a paperback for only $8.95
The post What Every Latter-day Saint Should Know About the Founding of America first appeared on LDS365: Resources from the Church & Latter-day Saints worldwide.
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