ASU to Host Free Lecture on the Declaration of Independence

Dr. C. Bradley Thompson to discuss the principal ideas of the Declaration and its relevance today

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

Angelo State University will present a free public lecture on Wednesday, February 25th at 5 p.m. featuring Dr. C. Bradley Thompson, a professor of political science at Clemson University. The lecture, titled "British Tyranny and American Freedom: The Story of the Declaration of Independence", will explore the key principles of the Declaration of Independence and how they remain relevant in the modern context.

Why it matters

The Declaration of Independence is one of the foundational documents of the United States, outlining the core values and principles that the country was founded upon. This lecture provides an opportunity for the local community to engage with and reflect on the enduring significance of the Declaration and its role in shaping American democracy.

The details

During the lecture, Dr. Thompson will discuss the historical context of the Declaration, including the British treatment of American colonists that led to its creation. He will also analyze the principal ideas and philosophical underpinnings of the document, and explore how these ideas remain relevant in the present day. The event is free and open to the public, with light refreshments served.

  • The lecture will take place on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at 5 p.m.
  • The event is part of the 2026 E. James Holland Symposium on American Values at ASU

The players

Dr. C. Bradley Thompson

A professor of political science at Clemson University and the executive director of the Snow Institute for the Study of Capitalism. He is an expert on the history of political philosophy and American political thought.

Angelo State University

The host institution for the lecture, located in San Angelo, Texas.

E. James Holland

The creator of the ASU symposium series, which is designed to bring the campus and public together to reflect on issues related to American values.

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The takeaway

This lecture provides an important opportunity for the local community to engage with and reflect on the enduring significance of the Declaration of Independence, one of the foundational documents of the United States. By exploring the historical context and philosophical underpinnings of the Declaration, as well as its continued relevance today, the event aims to deepen understanding and appreciation of the core values and principles that shape American democracy.