The word ‘liberty’ is an important word throughout the history of North America and Europe. It is an easy word to say, and it is also an easy word to take for granted. ‘Liberty’ is an old Latin word originating from the word ‘libertas’. Etymologists — this is the name for a person who studies the origin and history of words — derive the word liberty from the name of the goddess Libertas, who represents freedom or a state of being free. In fact, many historians argue that the Statue of Liberty was probably modeled after Libertas, the Roman goddess of freedom. Interestingly, the Statue of Liberty was a gift to the United States from the French.
The word ‘liberty’ can also reflect some level of unrestrained action, conduct, or expression. Accordingly, the phrase ‘to take liberties’ means to go beyond what is considered normal and proper. For example, the statement, “I took the liberty of ordering your food for you,” is an expression that a friend or family member might use in conversation at your favorite restaurant.
Liberty means having the power to do what you want, go where you want, eat what you want, and say what you want. It means you are free to make your own choices. With liberty comes responsibility. Liberty does not mean that you can do whatever you feel like doing. We are free to do what we want as long as what we want does not take away someone else’s freedom or put their life at risk. Having liberty does NOT mean you are free from the consequences of your choices.
The Spanish-American war began in May of 1898, and rather than stay in the comfort of his government office and ask his soldiers to fight for liberty, then President Teddy Roosevelt went to the front lines to fight for liberty. In doing so, he formed the 1st U.S. Volunteer Cavalry to help fight the war. Alongside his friend Leonard Wood, an American war hero, Teddy sifted through nearly 25,000 applications to create the group that came to be known as the “Rough Riders.”
The American Spirit
By the end of President Roosevelt’s administration, his name was synonymous with the liberty and the American spirit. His strength and integrity have inspired generations of Americans. Though born into a wealthy family, Roosevelt’s willingness to sacrifice his own luxury for the betterment of his country distinguished him as a true American hero and the embodiment of American resilience and determination. Furthermore, President Roosevelt’s efforts to preserve America’s natural beauty would earn him a place on Mount Rushmore, a monument in the Dakotas meant to honor remarkable American leaders for many future generations to come.