Millions of Americans celebrate Independence Day, but a lot of them might not fully grasp the historical significance of the occasion. Sure, there’s a general awareness, but the deeper story behind the formation of the United States often goes untold.
In a recent episode of “The Program,” Glenn Beck delves into that lesser-known narrative surrounding America’s birth—focusing on the hidden betrayals, compelling figures, and pivotal moments that led up to the Fourth of July. He states, “We all celebrate Independence Day. Everyone does. But no one knows what happens in the days before Independence Day… It’s fascinating how this country was emerging simultaneously in different cities, each with divergent paths that eventually collided dramatically.”
Glenn mentions how Thomas Jefferson was pondering what kind of nation they could be in the Declaration of Independence, while at the same time, George Washington was realizing the threats looming over them—the British fleet was on the move. But it wasn’t just the war that posed risks for America. As the British prepared to invade New York, British Governor William Tryon and Mayor David Matthews plotted to either kidnap or kill Washington by enlisting Continental Army soldiers to betray him.
They’re actively bribing soldiers to turn against their own once the British invaders landed. “The moment the British touched land, they’d turn their firearms, create chaos, and capture Manhattan’s northern bridge, but Washington’s army would be trapped,” Glenn explains.
Washington’s security detail had one member, Thomas Hickey, who got himself enmeshed in this conspiracy. Although he faced jail time for passing counterfeit money, he couldn’t keep quiet about the plans. He let the cat out of the bag to another inmate, leading to a secret committee investigation led by John Jay, who would later become the first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Glenn describes Jay’s group as “the first American intelligence agency,” a remarkable feat for that time.
At this same moment, Jefferson was actually finishing the Declaration of Independence. Remarkably, Hickey was executed for treason on June 28, 1776, perhaps the first soldier to face such a fate before the nation was officially formed. “On the same day, Jefferson brought his draft to Independence Hall, marking a significant moment. A new country was trying to define itself while, in another city, its would-be destroyer dangled from a rope—both stories unfolding a mere 90 miles apart,” Glenn notes.
Just days later, Congress voted on July 2 to approve the independence resolution. “Before the ink dried, the enemy was already plotting,” he says. “In such a dire situation, with an invasion around the corner and traitors in the mix, Washington had a choice. He could have become a tyrant; instead, he opted to maintain the rule of law and revolutionary values even amid danger.”
In an environment filled with uncertainty, sacrifice, and urgency, these leaders chose structure over chaos and justice over vengeance. They affixed their names to a document that stated the ruling powers must respond to a higher authority. “This is who we are. This is who we are,” Glenn emphasizes, suggesting a reflection on the core values that shaped the nation.
If you’re keen to explore more about this compelling historical account, the video offers additional insights.
