History makers headstrong

As bells ring, firecrackers pop and observances are held all across our land, let us examine some of the factors that contributed to the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the fight for freedom.

In recent years psychologists and historians have teamed up to study and understand significant events and personalities from the past. Although it does involve much speculation, new techniques combining the two disciplines of psychology and history are enabling scientists to piece together more and more information about our past and the interaction between human behavior and history.

Great men and women who have contributed to the making of history frequently have many characteristics in common. As we reflect on the people in the colonies in 1776, we find these traits and personalities:

• The individuals responsible for writing and signing the Declaration of Independence and also those who contributed to events and ideas in this time period were in present-day terminology “shakers and movers.” They tended to be very creative thinkers and were often considered to be “Marching to the tune of a different drummer.”
• Their strong believe in individual freedom, including freedom of religion, made them unpopular in the country for which they were seeking freedom and independence.
• These individuals were quite likely not only to be challenged by new ideas, but also to be possessed of a high need for control in their own lives. This need for self-control and self-determination carried over into their desire fro this new country to have these same options.
• They were what present-day psychologists call “risk takers.” The fear of the future and the possible uncertainties enabled them to dream of a future which many reserved citizens considered not only impossible, but probably insane. But the “risk” takers were undaunted. A true and successful risk taker does not base his decisions on chance alone, but instead is able to dream of future possibilities without such intrusive phrase as “it can’t be done” or “let’s not rock the boat.” They use the power of visual imagery to project their ideas and goals into a workable framework. By rehearsing these scenes over and over, they are able to produce self-fulfilling prophecy.
• The rugged patriots in 1776 were men and women of many walks of life, successful, some educated and some self-taught. They didn’t let an inordinate need for approval or a desire to be perfect in everything, interfere with their goals and dreams. Their belief in a superior being gave them a strong spiritual base to work from, propelling them into leadership roles in a nation unlike and unequaled in history.
• Hard work and self-discipline were qualities that these people possessed and believed in. Commitment to what they believed helped them combat the stress that accompanied their monumental endeavors. There also existed a strong commitment to pull together for a common cause with a sort of “one for all, and all for one” attitude. These men banded together, pledging their lives, their positions and their fortunes. Without this unity of ideals and commitment, their cause might have ended in failure.

So let the bells ring, listen to the speeches and celebrate. But think of these men who risked all to establish this country for us. Their characteristics and deeds are worth emulating.

Harold H. LeCrone, Jr., Ph.D. Copyright 1984