FLASH POLL: Who was America's Greatest "King"?
No, Trump Isn't an Option. Well, Not Really.
The foundational belief of our nation rests on the Rule of Law, not the whims of monarchs. This vital principle shapes our American identity, ensuring that no one fears arbitrary arrest while strolling in public or faces violent reprisals from authorities for merely socializing. It champions our right to voice dissent against government decisions without the looming threat of retaliation.
Before our Revolution, King George never fretted over infringing upon the liberties of his American subjects – simply because such freedoms didn't exist then as they do now.
Many believe these uniquely American rights are now under unprecedented assault. We live in a constitutional republic, “if we can keep it,” as Ben Franklin so famously quipped.
Putting all of that aside for the moment, I thought we could do something fun today.
We have had “royalty” of all sorts in America. Christopher Walken was a fictional “King of New York.” Isaac Hayes was its “Duke” in John Carpenter’s 1981 classic. Babe Ruth was the “Sultan” of Swat.
Better Than Ezra sang about the “King of New Orleans” a generation ago. Some will argue that no American “King” has been as prolific as Stephen King is in the horror genre. There have been “Kings” of Detroit, Baltimore, and El Paso and self-proclaimed royalty in big cities and small hamlets everywhere in between.
There are notable and historical figures who have borne the name “King.” Some are famous, like Rufus King, for their patriotism and courage. Some, like Rodney King, are poignant reminders of us at our worst. Some excelled in sports, others in entertainment. Several urged us to see through bias and pretense. Some asked the hard questions. Some made us smile. And some made the ultimate sacrifice.
With that in mind, today’s poll question is straightforward: Who is America’s greatest “King”?
If your choice isn’t there, or you think someone else should have been included, tell us why in the comments.
At the risk of “influencing” the tally, you’ll probably be able to figure out my vote.
