America 250: Independence Won-and Almost Lost-Rushville

As America approaches its 250th anniversary, Rick Klinedinst looks beyond the triumph of 1776 to the fragile years that followed—when independence was secured, but the republic itself nearly slipped away. Framed by Benjamin Franklin’s challenge, “A republic, if you can keep it,” this presentation brings to life the financial collapse, political chaos, military unrest, and global doubt that pushed the young nation to the brink. It is a reminder that America’s founding was not a moment of certainty, but a narrow test of resolve that endured only because it was deliberately kept.