Archeology This Month: American Heritage

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

If there is one thing Americans have in common, it is dedication to the pursuit of liberty. Every July, Americans celebrate Independence Day in recognition of our freedoms. Archeology shines a light on the struggle to achieve personal and collective rights. Consider the stories below and the perspective they bring. What does liberty mean to you?

Learn more about the Declaration of Independence and Telling All Americans' Stories.

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  George Washington's Birthplace

  A national icon, Washington represented a class intent on preserving its stature.

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  African Burial Ground

  Enslaved Africans bore the burdens of freedoms enjoyed by others.

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  Thomas Cresap's Fort

  Cresap chose who to be: hired ruffian, Indian trader, land speculator, farmer, and soldier.

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  Middle Ford Tavern and Ferry

  James Marshall owned land and enslaved people to operate his business.

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  President's House

  The founding fathers declared their own freedom, but enslaved others.

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  River Raisin Battlefield

  Native peoples allied with the British in hope of saving their lands.

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  Sarah Whitby Site

  A free woman, mother, widow and laundress, Sarah made her way.

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  Chinese Railroad Workers' Camps

  Able to work, but not free from racism and discrimination.

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  Rock Gardens at Manzanar

  Incarcerated Japanese Americans found small freedoms in everyday life.