Let Freedom Ring: The Words Th

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.

With these stirring words from the Declaration of Independence, Americans pronounced themselves free. Here are the eloquent speeches, moving songs, soul-stirring poems, and indelible pictures that throughout history continue to inspire the nation. From the Pilgrims' "Mayflower Compact" in 1620 right up to President Bush's address to Congress after September 11, 2001, Let Freedom Ring spans more than 225 years of democracy in action. Thomas Paine's "These are the times that try men's souls" resonates more powerfully today than ever, as does Roosevelt's "A Date Which Will Live in Infamy." Sitting Bull's speech to the Senate Commission, Martin Luther King's forever thrilling "I Have a Dream," Elizabeth Cady Stanton's declaration at Seneca Falls, and Emma Lazarus's "The New Colossus" movingly honor the spirit of American liberty. Hear America singing "The Star-Spangled Banner," "God Bless America," "My Country 'Tis of Thee," and "The Battle Hymn of the Republic," and read patriotic poetry such as "Paul Revere's Ride." Glorious photographs of Old Glory, the Statue of Liberty, the White House, the Alamo, Mount Rushmore, public monuments, historical documents, and many more appear throughout in full color, and on the cover, in pride of place, is the Liberty Bell, ready to ring the sounds of freedom for us all.

Freedom...for all people, of every race, religion, and gender. It's what makes America strong and proud, why this great nation stands tall, and what its citizens fight for and defend at all cost. This country's leaders have debated and defined what these ideals are. They have written and spoken about them--inspiring, comforting, and bringing the country through periods of growth and good times as well as adversity and strife. Magnificently illustrated with patriotic images, here are words that have shaped America, from the brave oath of the Mayflower Compact of 1620 to George W. Bush's poignant presidential address to Congress following the tragic events of September 11, 2001.