The article reflects on Benjamin Franklin's assertion regarding the fragility of the republic established post-1787 Constitutional Convention. It emphasizes the wary optimism of the founders, who balanced their vision of a new democratic government against a history rife with political volatility. They were acutely aware of past failed republics and shaped their framework to prevent the pitfalls of direct democracy. The enduring relevance of Franklin's quip underscores the ongoing challenge to maintain a healthy republic amidst historical precedents of upheaval and instability.
As Franklin famously said, a republic was established, but it was contingent upon the citizens' ability to maintain it, reflecting the fragility of the system.
The framers shared a collective skepticism about the enduring nature of republican governance, having observed the pitfalls and downfalls of past republics throughout history.
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