1776

Plot Summary

John Adams, representing Massachusetts, was a vocal advocate of independence and a close friend of Benjamin Franklin. How can we justify ourselves to posterity? he asked. How can we expect our prayers for liberty to be heard by the Almighty, if we are not ready to take the most vigorous measures for its support?

Adams was an important figure in the push for independence and was even appointed to the committee of five to draft the Declaration of Independence. He was outspoken, determined and often quite emotional in his pursuit of freedom.

He and Franklin were close friends and frequently discussed the importance of independence at length. They were often seen debating the finer points of their cause and pushing each other to do more in their pursuit of freedom. Adams and Franklin certainly had a unique bond that only strengthened as the quest for independence continued.

Benjamin Franklin: Representing Pennsylvania, Franklin is a master diplomat who is eager to find a compromise between the delegates.

Benjamin Franklin: Representing Pennsylvania, Franklin is a master diplomat eager to find a compromise between the delegates. But what makes him unique?

Id say its the way he approaches the situation, with a humorous and charming attitude thats all his own. He makes it clear that hes not just looking for a resolution, but for a resolution that all sides can agree on.

Thats why hes so popular: his humor and charm are infectious, and hes able to keep things light while also pushing for a resolution. Hes a masterful negotiator, and he knows how to make all sides feel heard.

Franklin is a great example of how diplomacy can be used to bridge divides and find common ground. Hes definitely one of the most memorable characters in 1776, and his presence is key to the success of the movie.

Thomas Jefferson: Representing Virginia, Jefferson is the main author of the Declaration of Independence.

Thomas Jefferson: Representing Virginia, Jefferson is the main author of the Declaration of Independence. But who was Thomas Jefferson?

He was an American Founding Father, the principal author of the Declaration of Independence and the third President of the United States. He was a man of many talents; a lawyer, politician, architect, inventor, and musician.

In the movie 1776, Thomas Jefferson is portrayed as a man of principle and reason. He is determined to get the Declaration signed, and is willing to compromise in order to make it happen. His commitment to independence is clear, and his leadership is inspiring.

Slavery: The delegates debate the issue of slavery and how it should be addressed in the Declaration.

The delegates of the Continental Congress had an intense debate over the issue of slavery when discussing the Declaration of Independence. Should the Declaration address the issue of slavery and how should it be addressed?

One delegate argued that the Declaration should not mention slavery as it would be seen as a criticism of the institution. Another delegate argued that the Declaration should take a stand against slavery, and that it should be acknowledged in the text.

The debate went back and forth, with both sides passionately defending their positions. In the end, the delegates decided to omit the issue of slavery from the Declaration, but it was still a highly contentious issue in the room.

Independence: The delegates must decide whether or not to declare independence from Britain.

Independence: Its the question that the delegates must grapple with. Should they declare independence from Britain? Or should they remain loyal? Its a question that has been weighing heavily on the delegates. After all, the decision to declare independence is a monumental one. Its a decision that will have consequences for the entire nation. Its a decision that could very well determine the future of the United States.

But is the risk worth it? Is the risk of declaring independence from Britain worth the potential benefit of a free and independent nation? Thats the question the delegates must answer. Thats the question that will determine the fate of the United States. Thats the question that must be answered if the colonies have any hope of winning the Revolutionary War.

Compromise: The delegates must find a way to reach a compromise and move forward with the Declaration.

Compromise: how do the delegates bridge the divide between the Southern and Northern colonies? Its a question that looms over the delegates throughout the movie 1776 (1972). An answer must be found if they are to move forward with the Declaration. But what will it be?
The delegates must be willing to compromise if they are to find a solution. They must set aside their differences and come to an agreement that satisfies all parties. Its a tall order, but theres no other way.
Thankfully, the delegates are able to find a way to agree and move forward. In the end, compromise is the only way to achieve their common goal. Its a lesson that still applies today: sometimes, the only way to move forward is to work together and find a way to compromise.