Henry Cooke and American Independence

[Reformed Covenanter]

In his debate in Belfast with the Scottish Voluntaryist, John Ritchie, the Irish Presbyterian leader, Henry Cooke made the following remark about the American Revolution: "I am one of those who have always thanked Providence for American independence. England and America, under one government, would have unbalanced the freedom of the world." [1] It is nothing earth-shattering, but the point that the British Empire may have been much worse had America not gained its independence is worth considering.

[1] The Voluntaries in Belfast. Report of the Discussion on Civil Establishments of Religion, Held in Belfast, on the Evenings of 16th and 17th March, 1836, between the Rev. J. Ritchie, D.D., Edinburgh; Rev. J. Alexander, Belfast; Rev. Mr. McIlwaine, Ohio, America; Rev. Hugh McIntrye, Loan-Ends; and the Rev. H. Cooke, D.D. L.L.D., Belfast (4th edn, Belfast: William McComb, 1837), p. 21.

 

[Logan]

That's a good thought. The British Empire ruled most of the world and unchecked could have descended rapidly into extreme hubris.

 

[Tom Hart]

That's a good thought. The British Empire ruled most of the world and unchecked could have descended rapidly into extreme hubris.

Fortunately the British Empire was all smooth sailing from start to finish.

 

[Henry Hall]

Neither independence nor dependence is a blessing to people bent on rebellion against God.

 

[Pergamum]

It is hard to predict human history. Had Britain stayed sovereign over America, maybe we wouldn't have had a war over slavery.

 

[Reformed Covenanter]

It is hard to predict human history. Had Britain stayed sovereign over America, maybe we wouldn't have had a war over slavery.

That outcome may well have been a possibility. As your current President would say, "Sad."