America is an exceptional nation. This is not because of what the US has achieved or accomplished. America is exceptional because, unlike any other nation, it is truly dedicated to the natural law and principles of human liberty, grounded on the truths that all men are created equal and endowed with equal rights. These permanent truths are "applicable to all men and all times," Abraham Lincoln once said.
As the Heritage Foundation points out, America's principles have created a prosperous and just nation unlike any other nation in history. “They explain why Americans strongly defend their country, look fondly to their nation's origins, vigilantly assert their political rights and civic responsibilities, and remain convinced of the special meaning of their country and its role in the world. It is because of its principles, not despite them, that America has achieved greatness.”
As history proves, the American Founders appealed to self-evident truths, stemming from "the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God," to justify their liberty. They are as true today as they were in 1776.
The US Constitution defines the institutions of American government: three distinct branches of government that make the law, enforce the law, and judge the law in particular cases.
This fundamental framework gives the American government the powers it needs to secure our fundamental rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The Declaration of Independence also sets the basic vision for the American Dream, still respected and admired by millions of people throughout the world.
Of course, the ultimate purpose of securing these rights and of limiting government is to protect human freedom. That freedom allows the institutions of civil society such as family, school, church, and private associations, to thrive, and form the habits and virtues required for liberty.
