Jefferson Memorial

Learn from Tim Schmig about the multiple references to God in the Jefferson Memorial:

Below the frieze on the dome

I have sworn upon the altar of God eternal hostility against every form of tyranny over the mind of man

The Declaration of Independence

We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by

their Creator with certain inalienable rights, among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, that to secure these rights governments are instituted among men. We … solemnly publish and declare, that these colonies are and of right ought to be free and independent states … And for the support of this declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine providence,

we mutually pledge our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor.

The Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom

Almighty God hath created the mind free … All attempts to influence it by temporal punishments or burthens … are a departure from the plan of the Holy Author of our religion … No man shall be compelled to frequent or support any religious worship or ministry or shall otherwise suffer on account of his religious opinions or belief, but all men shall be free to profess and by argument to maintain, their opinions in matters of religion. I know but one code of morality for men whether acting singly or collectively.