Robert Begley's Articles
Arts & Culture, History, Philosophy, Reviews
Socrates: Dramatizing the History of Western Thought
Robert Begley May 30, 2019
Tim Blake Nelson’s excellent play retells the story of one of the West’s first great philosophers—Socrates.
History
Prince Henry Launched the Age of Discovery
Robert Begley March 14, 2019
After reason had been smothered during the Dark and Middle Ages, Prince Henry helped to light the world with knowledge.
History
Robert Morris: America’s Financial Atlas
Robert Begley January 26, 2019
This self-made immigrant helped make the Revolution possible, then laid the foundation for America’s essentially capitalist financial policies.
Arts & Culture, Philosophy
Steve Ditko’s Legacy: From Superheroes to Moral Heroes
Robert Begley July 26, 2018
Steve Ditko created art that “shows how men could and should act,” heroes without tragic flaws, and a universe where justice triumphs.
Arts & Culture, History
The Brooklyn Bridge: A Monument to the Human Spirit
Robert Begley May 24, 2018
On May 24, 1883 the Brooklyn Bridge opened for public use. It was a triumph over nature, doomsayers, and corrupt politicians.
Arts & Culture, History
‘No Man Swings More or Stands Higher Than the Duke’
Robert Begley April 29, 2018
Duke Ellington crafted a sound that “literally lifts one out of one’s seat.” He flourished despite widespread racism and opened the doors of the world from behind his piano. Celebrate the Duke's birthday with a taste of the unrestrained joy he brought to music and life.
Arts & Culture, History
Jackie Robinson: ‘The Best Kind of American Hero’
Robert Begley April 15, 2018
On April 15, 1947, Jack Roosevelt “Jackie” Robinson not only changed the complexion of baseball, he changed America.
Good Living, Politics & Rights
Toastmasters: A Means to Actualize Your Potential and Improve the Culture
Robert Begley April 5, 2018
Toastmasters can help you learn to speak more confidently and eloquently—and thus to be a more effective advocate of reason and freedom.
History, Politics & Rights
Patrick Henry’s ‘Give Me Liberty, or Give Me Death!’ Speech
Robert Begley March 22, 2018
On March 23, 1775, Patrick Henry delivered one of the most important and dramatic speeches in American history. May Henry’s words live on and inspire all who continue fighting for freedom.
Economics, History
Hamilton’s Bank of New York Put the City Back in Business and the U.S. on the Map
Robert Begley March 13, 2018
If we trace the steps of New York’s rise as the financial capital of the world, we must recognize that establishing the Bank of New York was a pivotal moment in history.
History, Politics & Rights
The Federalist Essays Brought the U.S. Constitution to Life
Today in 1787, Alexander Hamilton published the first of the Federalist essays, which helped secure ratification of the U.S. Constitution.
Politics & Rights
Alexander McCobin on Students For Liberty
Robert Begley November 20, 2014
Robert Begley interviews Alexander McCobin, cofounder of Students For Liberty, who provides an inside look at how SFL got started, its accomplishments to date, how it has expanded to practically every corner of the globe, and what the organization has in store for the future.
Announcements
In Memory of Bruce Rickard
Robert Begley October 29, 2014
Bruce Rickard, a good friend of mine and charter subscriber to TOS, recently succumbed to brain cancer, after a 28-month-long battle against the disease. One of Bruce’s distinguishing characteristics was his radiant benevolence. Bruce fought this terribly aggressive brain tumor with grace and courage, and was an example to everyone around him.
History
In Honor of the U.S. Constitution and the Men Who Created It
Robert Begley September 17, 2014
On September 17, 1787, the Founding Fathers signed the United States Constitution, laying the foundation for the first nation in history based on the recognition of the inalienable rights of man.
Education & Parenting
An interview with Rachel Miner about Learning at Our House
Robert Begley July 28, 2014
Learning at Our House is a suite of products for homeschoolers that covers history, music, literature, and science. The classes are taught online to a live audience and are available as recordings as well. Scott Powell created History at Our House, the original program, and later invited others to create the adjunct products.