About

“My son, I have somewhat to say unto thee… keep justice, keep truth, and you will live to think differently.” – Patrick Henry to John Randolph of Roanoke

Discover the real story of America and the South

In a private community built for serious thinkers.

American Traditions is not another noisy public forum or social-media echo chamber. It is a members-only space where critical thinkers, open-minded history enthusiasts, and those who value primary sources come together to explore the authentic history of the United States—its founding principles, traditions, triumphs, and enduring lessons—without modern political filters or ideological noise.

Our Focus

Our focus is American history with an emphasis on Southern history. Why?

Southern History is Widely Unknown or Misunderstood

When most people hear the words “Southern History”, they think of the years from 1861-1865 during the War, but its roots go much deeper than that. Southern history started in 1607 when English colonists landed at Jamestown, 13 years before the Pilgrims arrived at Plymouth Rock. The South has a rich history and has made many contributions to American life today. Jazz, blues, soul food, and more all come from the South. The study of history should be to understand the past and learn the truth.

Southern History has Immense Value

The South is the home of Jeffersonianism and of true conservatism. Limited government and local self-government have always been important to the South. “Live and let live.” is the predominant attitude amongst Southerners. Southern honor, manners, and courtesy is known to every true Southerner, black, white, or other. Regional pride in the South is no different than New England pride in the North.

The South is an important counterweight to progressive and revolutionary ideas which embrace materialism and nihilism. Honor and tradition have lessons to teach us all. Self-discipline and self-reliance have become forgotten in modern society.

“And it is this that they find: the last non-materialist civilization in the Western World. It is this refuge of sentiments and values, of spiritual congeniality, of belief in the word, of reverence for symbolism, whose existence haunts the nation. It is damned for its virtues and praised for its faults, and there are those who wish its annihilation. But most revealing of all is the fear that it gestates the revolutionary impulse of our future.” – Richard Weaver

Our Mission

We believe the best way to honor America’s past is to understand it fully and honestly. Our mission is simple:

• Provide a respectful environment for evidence-based discussion of American history
• Preserve and examine the ideas, documents, and traditions that shaped our Republic
• Foster intellectual curiosity and civil dialogue among people who value facts, context, and multiple perspectives over slogans or “the flavor of the month”

If you’re tired of simplified or cartoon textbook versions or agenda-driven narratives and instead want to dig into original letters, sources, speeches, court rulings, and overlooked archives—while engaging with others who share that same rigorous approach—you belong here. If you are easily offended or have preferred pronouns you want to be called by, you probably don’t.

Who This Community Is For

You will feel at home if you are:

• A critical thinker who questions assumptions and demands evidence
• Open-minded enough to explore uncomfortable truths
• Passionate about American history
• Seeking genuine conversation instead of performative outrage
• Are fed-up with fighting with or dealing with idiots on social media who know little or nothing about American history

We are deliberately selective. Every new member starts as a Heritage Member ($1 tier). This keeps the community focused, civil, and free of trolls or drive-by commentary. Once approved, you gain access to open discussions; paid levels (Jefferson Member and Randolph Member) unlock private groups, premium archives (future functionality), messaging, and exclusive content.

Why a Private Membership Site?

By keeping American Traditions members-only, we create the conditions for honest, thoughtful exchange—the kind that actually advances understanding. Your posts, replies, and shared research stay within a community that respects American traditions and each other. We build a quality community over time and grow organically.

What You’ll Find Inside (Coming soon)

• In-depth discussions on primary sources and key historical moments
• Themed private groups (Founding Documents, Military History, Cultural Traditions, etc.)
• Member-curated archives and recommended reading lists (coming soon)
• Live events, AMAs with historians, and collaborative research threads (coming soon)
• A donor wall and special perks for our Distinguished Founders (lifetime members)

No ads. No algorithms pushing controversy. Just serious people exploring serious history.

Ready to Join the Conversation?

Membership is by application and approval.

• Start for $1.00 as a Heritage Member (limited access + pending approval)
• Upgrade anytime to Jefferson Member ($10/mo) or Randolph Member ($20/mo) for full privileges
• Become a Distinguished Founder ($299 one-time) for lifetime access and special recognition

We look forward to welcoming independent minds who care deeply about getting American history right.

“There is not a truth existing which I fear, or would wish unknown to the whole world.” – Thomas Jefferson