The American Story: Building the Republic

America's Constitutional Republic is like no other. Most Americans recognize the names George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison, but few can tell you their stories—much less that of James Monroe, John Quincy Adams, or Andrew Jackson. These seven men from the Founding Ear were America's first presidents. They established our republic on the foundation of the Constitution and its liberties. But who were they? Were they good or bad leaders? How did they become presidents? Did they follow the Constitution or abandon its principles?

America's Constitutional Republic is like no other. Most Americans recognize the names George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison, but few can tell you their stories—much less that of James Monroe, John Quincy Adams, or Andrew Jackson. These seven men from the Founding Ear were America's first presidents. They established our republic on the foundation of the Constitution and its liberties. But who were they? Were they good or bad leaders? How did they become presidents? Did they follow the Constitution or abandon its principles? Their lives reflect the opportunities America offers. Farmers, attorneys, military veterans, and philosophers, they each rose to the highest ranks of political leadership. From very different backgrounds, all loved their nation. Each had shortcomings (some far more than others) as well as stellar shining moments. Some preserved our strong foundations and some abandoned core constitutional principles. The stories of each of these presidents are fascinating, instructive, and compelling. And why not? After all, these are the men who built the republic.

David Barton is the Founder of WallBuilders. He is the author of numerous best-selling books on subjects drawn largely from his massive library of tens of thousands of original writings from America's early centuries. He is a sought-after speaker, bringing the truth of America's history to churches, civic and military groups, schools and universities, and community events. David is also a frequent guest on a number of national media programs and is a host of The WallBuilders Show—a daily radio show and podcast. His exhaustive research has given him unique expertise on historical and constitutional issues. David serves as a consultant to state and federal legislators and has contributed to several cases at the US Supreme Court. He was involved in the development of the History/Social Studies standards for states such as Texas and California and has helped influence history textbooks now used in schools across the nation. A national news organization described David as "America's historian," and Time Magazine called him "a hero to millions—including some powerful politicians." In fact, he was included in Newsmax's 100 Most Influential Evangelicals in America and Time Magazine's top 25.