Franklin, Jefferson, & Madison:
on Religion and the State

Franklin, Jefferson & Madison: On Religion and the State explores the U.S. Constitution's First Amendment, focusing on religion, government, U.S. history, biography, and law. Through the lives of Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison, it highlights their religious beliefs and personal expressions of faith, supported by documents from the Library of Congress, National Archives, and other institutions.

 

These papers reveal a consensus among the early American founders on six key principles: 1. Freedom of Religion is fundamental right. 2. Government officials should not interfere with religious practices. 3. There should be no official religion in the United States. 4. Federal funds must not be directed to specific churches or religious groups. 5. All religions should be respected. 6. The separation of Church and State is essential.

 

This book chronicles the roots of religious freedom in America, a significant topic for people globally.