American Ride Season 1 Episode 6 We Hold These Truths to Be Self-Evident

American Ride is a TV show that dives into exploring the history of America through the perspective of Chris "Doc" Kirby, a history teacher and motorcycle enthusiast. In season 1, episode 6, titled "We Hold These Truths to Be Self-Evident", we follow Doc as he takes viewers on a journey through the American Revolution and the birth of America.

The episode starts with Doc riding through the streets of Philadelphia, where the Declaration of Independence was first signed. He narrates the story of how the colonists became fed up with British rule and decided to break away and create their own country. The episode covers the background of the Boston Tea Party, the Battles of Lexington and Concord, and the writing of the Declaration of Independence. Doc takes us to Independence Hall where the document was signed, and he explains the significance of each signature on the Declaration.

The episode also delves into the philosophies that inspired the American Revolution. Doc talks about the Enlightenment period in Europe, which influenced many of the founding fathers. He discusses the ideas of John Locke, who believed in individual rights, natural law, and limited government. Doc also talks about Thomas Paine's influential pamphlet "Common Sense", which advocated for American independence and inspired many colonists to take up arms against the British.

Throughout the episode, Doc intertwines stories of the struggles and sacrifices made by the patriots during the Revolution. Viewers get to learn about the Continental Army's hardships during the winter at Valley Forge, and the heroic efforts of individuals such as Nathan Hale and Molly Pitcher. We also see how influential figures like George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson influenced the course of the war and earned their place in history.

However, the episode doesn't shy away from discussing the complications and contradictions with American ideals. Doc covers the fact that many of the founding fathers owned slaves, and that the treatment of Native Americans was hardly improved upon throughout the creation of the country. He raises questions about the ideals of liberty and equality for all, and how they were compromised by the institution of slavery.

As the episode comes to a close, Doc returns to Philadelphia and reminds us of the importance of the document he started discussing at the beginning of the episode- the Declaration of Independence. He explains how it has become a symbol of American freedom, and how those ideas of freedom and individual rights are still relevant today. He ends the episode with a reminder that the ideals we hold as true and self-evident can only be preserved through continued vigilance and hard work.

Overall, "We Hold These Truths to Be Self-Evident" is an engaging and informative episode of American Ride that provides an excellent overview of the American Revolution and the birth of America. Doc Kirby does an excellent job of balancing the complexities of the subject matter with a clear and engaging narrative. Viewers who are interested in learning more about American history will undoubtedly enjoy this episode and the series as a whole.