As the United States celebrates 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the most important founders, including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, and James Madison, will be honored. But what about the always overlooked James Wilson?
Wilson’s work inspired the famous words, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.” He wrote the first draft of the Constitution, insisting on starting with the now-immortal words, “We the People,” to make clear who holds the ultimate authority. He argued for a strong central government, a powerful presidency, and a direct vote for the president and the Senate. He later became a Supreme Court justice but was ruined by reckless land speculation and debt, dying in hiding while on the run from creditors. His early and embarrassing death led to his erasure from standard narratives of the American founding — until now.
In the first mainstream biography of this democratic visionary, The Lost Founder, journalist Jesse Wegman uncovers Wilson’s legacy and argues that scandal should not diminish his life or his contribution to U.S. democracy.
Join us on Tuesday, June 23, at 6 p.m. at the Greene Space for an exclusive live podcast recording of The Briefing with Michael Waldman. Waldman and Wegman will discuss Wilson, his complicated history, and why he deserves a place among the celebrated architects of the U.S. Constitution and government.
Books will be available for purchase. The program will be followed by a book signing and reception.
Brennan Center speakers: