One Sentence Summary:
The 5000 Year Leap by W. Cleon Skousen is a comprehensive guide to the founding principles of the United States and how they have shaped American society.
Book Genre:
Political Science/Historical Non-Fiction.
Main Topic of the Book:
The book aims to educate readers about the 28 fundamental principles that the Founding Fathers used to design the Constitution and create the United States as a unique and prosperous nation.
Key Ideas:
- The Founding Fathers were influenced by ancient civilizations, philosophers, and their own experiences in creating a government that upholds individual rights, promotes prosperity, and protects against tyranny.
- The principles of the Constitution, such as limited government, separation of powers, and checks and balances, were designed to prevent the concentration of power and promote liberty.
- The Constitution is a living document that can withstand the test of time if its principles are followed and preserved.
- In order to maintain a free society, citizens must understand and uphold the principles of the Constitution.
Main Parts of the Book and a Short Summary:
Part 1: The Foundation of the Law
This section explains the principles and events that influenced the Founding Fathers in creating the Constitution and how it set the foundation for American law.
Part 2: The Roots of Constitutional Government
The Founding Fathers drew from ancient civilizations, such as Ancient Israel and Athens, as well as philosophers like Cicero and John Locke, in designing a government that protected individual rights and limited the power of the state.
Part 3: The Miracle of America
This part explores the key events and principles that contributed to the success of America, including the Pilgrim’s religious freedom, the American Revolution, and the principles of equal rights and religious tolerance.
Part 4: A New Constitution for Modern Man
The final section explains the 28 fundamental principles of the Founding Fathers and how they established the framework for a prosperous and free society.
Key Takeaways:
- The United States was founded on a unique set of principles that have contributed to its success as a nation.
- The Constitution is a living document that must be safeguarded and followed in order to maintain a free society.
- Understanding and upholding the principles of the Constitution is the responsibility of every citizen in preserving the American way of life.
Author’s Background and Qualifications:
W. Cleon Skousen was a teacher, professor, and author who dedicated his life to studying the US Constitution and the principles of the Founding Fathers. He served in the FBI and worked with various government agencies, giving him a unique perspective on the principles of the Constitution. Skousen has written many books on law, government, and history.
Target Audience:
The target audience for this book is anyone interested in learning about the foundational principles of the United States and how they have shaped American society. It is also recommended for students, historians, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the Constitution.
Publisher and First Publication Date:
The 5000 Year Leap was originally published in 1981 by National Center for Constitutional Studies and has since been published by a number of different publishers, including HarperCollins.