Founders

Who are America’s Founders?

A more holistic and inclusive definition is emerging among Revolutionary Era scholars and their readers.

Traditionally, historians and the general public regarded the men who signed the 1776 Declaration of Independence, served in the Continental Congress, or fought in the American Revolution to be founding fathers. Most notably pre-twenty first-century history books refer to George Washington as the father of his country.

However, today “founders” has replaced “founding fathers” in our lexicon to denote the place of women in America’s founding properly. Further, under-represented groups such as African-Americans and Native Americas are recognized as founders. Lastly, the founders’ definition includes all those who contributed to our country’s development regardless of income, social status, race, or gender.