The American Revolution was fueled not just on battlefields and in legislatures, but also around tables, taverns, and church halls where ideas were shared and solidarity was built.
Timed with America’s 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and inspired by THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION from Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein, and David Schmidt, this resource is designed to help communities celebrate together, explore themes of service, and reflect on the founding ideals of our nation.
The Declaration of Independence closes with a powerful commitment: “And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.” This pledge reminds us that even people of different backgrounds can unite around shared values—a spirit that continues to guide us in building common purpose today.
Values cards are one way to bring this spirit to life. Simple yet powerful, they invite us to reflect on what matters most and imagine how to put our values into action. Each card names a value and offers a short definition, creating opportunities to pause, connect, and be inspired.
Designed for people of all ages, the cards spark meaningful conversations, deepen understanding, and help us find common ground. Participants can choose cards that represent their personal values, explore how those values appear in their lives or in history, and even add their own using the blank cards provided. By focusing on the ideals that shaped our past and the values that guide us today, the cards encourage us to better understand one another, discover shared motivations for service, and honor the past while building a more inclusive and connected future together.
The American Revolution resources, including these values cards, were created in partnership with WETA for the OurAmericanStory.org Educational Resource Center. The American Revolution Spirit of Service Toolkit and Resources can be here.