"The Sins of the Fathers:" Slavery and the American Story   

"Whoever controls the past, controls the future. And whoever controls the present, controls the past." Throughout American history, there have been ongoing efforts to shape the national narrative. These efforts often reflect deeper questions about identity, memory, and truth. As some have observed, "Efforts to control history are a sign of political fear- not national strength."

The history of slavery remains one of the most complex and often debated aspects of our past. It played a critical role in the founding of the United States, and its legacy still influences the present. As William Faulkner wrote, "The past is never dead; it's not even past." The Founders' decision to allow slavery had long-term consequences that continue to affect the nation's pursuit of domestic tranquility.

This presentation explores how our understanding of history shapes the present, and how, as the saying goes, "The sins of the fathers have been visited upon their children." (Exodus 34:7)