OPINION: America's unique rule of law
Meyer
We celebrate the day two and a half centuries ago that the Declaration of Independence was signed. In the years surrounding this event, the framers struggled with forming a government that was strong enough to be effective, but also one that respected individual freedoms and states’ rights. The rule of law was a concept that was not borne out of this struggle — it had existed for centuries before — but the principle was a crucial part of what led the colonists to break with England and form a new nation.
The rule of law is a concept that is difficult to define. John Adams is frequently quoted as saying “we are a government of laws and not men.” This means our government is based on laws that apply to everyone, regardless of their status, position, or wealth. We are not subject to the whims of the king or others in power. This is the bedrock on which this great nation was founded.
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