What Was the American Revolution For?

Amid plans to mark the nation’s semiquincentennial, many are asking whether or not the people really do rule, and whether the law is still king.

Related

Other articles with overlapping topics.

The New Yorker

Inside the Data Centers That Train A.I. and Drain the Electrical Grid

A data center, which can use as much electricity as Philadelphia, is the new American factory, creating the future and propping up the economy. How long can this last?

Stephen Witt·Oct 27, 2025·22 min read

The New Yorker

Why Immanuel Kant Still Has More to Teach Us

A new introduction to the great philosopher’s work foregrounds its revolutionary nature and far-reaching impact.

Adam Kirsch·Oct 27, 2025·18 min read

The New Yorker

Some People Can’t See Mental Images. The Consequences Are Profound

Research has linked the ability to visualize to a bewildering variety of human traits—how we experience trauma, hold grudges, and, above all, remember our lives.

Larissa MacFarquhar·Oct 27, 2025·46 min read

The New Yorker

Trump and the Presidency That Wouldn’t Shut Up

His posts and rants are omnipresent, ugly, and unhinged. Don’t look to history to make it make sense.

Jill Lepore·Oct 27, 2025·17 min read

The New Yorker

“Mother of Men,” by Lauren Groff

I saw someone coming toward me through the twilight on the road ahead, a skinny man in a glowing white shirt, and dread rushed into me.

Lauren Groff·Nov 2, 2025·17 min read

The New Yorker

Who My Child Was and Would Be

When Nat transitioned, I learned that when someone you love changes, you change, too.

James Marcus·Nov 3, 2025·26 min read