Podcast Summary: The Great Books – Episode 359: 'Letters from a Farmer in Pennsylvania' by John Dickinson
Host: John J. Miller, National Review
Guest: Jane E. Calvert, Director and Chief Editor of the John Dickinson Writing Projects
Release Date: February 11, 2025
1. Introduction to the Episode
John J. Miller opens the episode by introducing Jane E. Calvert, a distinguished scholar with extensive experience in teaching and authorship on topics related to John Dickinson. Calvert brings her expertise to discuss "Letters from a Pennsylvania Farmer," a pivotal pamphlet from the Revolutionary era.
2. Understanding "Letters from a Pennsylvania Farmer"
a. Significance of the Pamphlet
Calvert clarifies that "Letters from a Pennsylvania Farmer" is not a book but a pamphlet, a popular medium during the Revolutionary period. She emphasizes the pamphlet's role in shaping revolutionary thought:
“Dickinson had several purposes in writing it. He... wanted to educate Americans about their rights and liberties...”
— Jane Calvert, [01:47]
b. Use of Pseudonyms
The discussion highlights Dickinson's strategic use of pseudonyms to protect himself and allow his arguments to stand on their own merit. Initially published anonymously, his identity as "the Pennsylvania Farmer" became widely recognized:
“He wanted the force of his argument to sway people... people did realize that this was John Dickinson...”
— Jane Calvert, [04:51]
c. Key Themes and Messages
Calvert delves into the pamphlet's core messages, stressing Dickinson's advocacy for American rights without severing ties with Britain. He argued against the coercive measures of the British Parliament, particularly opposing taxation without representation:
“He wanted to educate Americans about their rights and liberties... and he wanted them to understand themselves as Americans...”
— Jane Calvert, [00:57]
3. Historical Impact and Legacy
a. Comparison with "Common Sense"
Calvert asserts that "Letters from a Pennsylvania Farmer" was arguably the most influential American political document preceding Thomas Paine's "Common Sense":
“Before then, the farmer's Letters were absolutely the most famous... he became a celebrity.”
— Jane Calvert, [11:12]
b. Dickinson's Role in the American Revolution
Contrary to being a conservative figure, Dickinson is portrayed as a radical advocate for resistance against unjust laws. He sought to prevent the entrenchment of oppressive legislation from the outset:
“He wanted people to resist these acts from the very beginning so that they couldn't become entrenched...”
— Jane Calvert, [06:00]
4. Post-Independence Contributions
Following the Declaration of Independence, Dickinson's commitment to the American cause intensified. Calvert outlines his extensive public service, including roles in the Pennsylvania Assembly, governance of Delaware, and participation in constitutional conventions. Notably, Dickinson enlisted as a private militia member, demonstrating his dedication:
“He was the only leading figure... who then enlisted as a private to serve in the militia...”
— Jane Calvert, [19:20]
5. John Dickinson and Slavery
A critical aspect of Dickinson's legacy is his relationship with slavery. While he was a slaveholder, he took progressive steps towards emancipation:
“He returned to his plantation... began the process of freeing the people he enslaved... in 1786, he freed the remainder unconditionally.”
— Jane Calvert, [22:02]
Calvert highlights Dickinson as a unique figure among the founders who genuinely grappled with the ideals of equality espoused in the Declaration of Independence.
6. Anecdote on Dickinson's Nose and Political Satire
Calvert shares an entertaining episode reflecting early American political satire involving Dickinson's prominent nose. A notable incident with political rival Joseph Galloway and a satirical pamphlet titled "Society of Noses" exemplify the enduring nature of humor in politics:
“There's this depiction... of Dickinson has this kind of long, hook nose... a lewd equation of noses with certain male body parts.”
— Jane Calvert, [24:04]
7. Jane Calvert's Scholarship on Dickinson
Calvert explains her personal journey to studying Dickinson, initially indifferent to the Revolutionary period until encountering his influential yet underappreciated role. Her work aims to rehabilitate his reputation, challenging earlier historiography that marginalized him:
“Early historians... vilified Dickinson... it's why we have multi-volume editions of the papers of George Washington... but no one had done that for Dickinson until I came along.”
— Jane Calvert, [13:25]
8. Relevance Today
Concluding the discussion, Calvert argues that Dickinson's writings remain pertinent, especially in today's polarized political climate. His emphasis on unity, peaceful advocacy, and vigilance against tyranny resonates with contemporary societal challenges:
“'I hope... that you will in every colony be upon your guard against those who may... endeavor to stir you up...' so he and his writings are even more relevant today...”
— Jane Calvert, [29:34]
Conclusion:
Jane E. Calvert provides a comprehensive exploration of John Dickinson's "Letters from a Pennsylvania Farmer," underscoring its historical significance and enduring relevance. By shedding light on Dickinson's multifaceted contributions and addressing his nuanced stance on issues like slavery, Calvert positions him as a pivotal yet underrecognized Founding Father. This episode not only enriches the listener's understanding of Revolutionary-era literature but also invites reflection on the application of historical principles in modern governance.