Explain ideology of Revolutionary Republicanism which inspired actions and hopes of Americans in immediate aftermath of Declaration of Independence. Why was the republic thought to be radical (and even utopian) concept of government? What was thought to be crucial ingredient essential for people to sustain republic? Explain why was self-interest (“corruption”) thought to be fatal to republic’s survival? Explain why, despite these dire prospects, did many Americans in 1776 think that they would be able to successfully sustain republic?
