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Where the Founding Fathers Found Their Inspiration

The idea of an independent United States was inspired in no small part by Greco-Roman ideals, argues a classics professor

Taylor McNeil photo By Taylor McNeil

August 20, 2026

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Where the Founding Fathers Found Their Inspiration

Tufts Now • Taylor McNeil

America’s founding generation did not look to the ancient world as a museum piece; they looked to it for models of courage, statesmanship, liberty, and the wise use of power. As the nation marks 250 years since the Declaration of Independence, this glimpse into the founders’ classical education raises a timely question: what kinds of books and examples are shaping the character of the next generation?

Taylor McNeil photo

Taylor McNeil

Tufts Now