David Barton highlights forgotten history

Last night at Tulsa’s Victory Christian Center, American historian David Barton spoke with fast facts flying in illustration of monumental contributions of African Americans in our national history.  Barton will speak on the topic again this evening at Oral Roberts University at 7 pm in Timko Barton Performance Hall.  The presentation is free and the public is invited.  The title of the lecture is “America’s Godly Heritage: African American History."

Long a student of history, this reporter was stunned by how little I knew of the significant roles African Americans played at the birth and early building of the nation.  With tape rolling and pen in hand, one would think an experienced reporter would feel satisfied, but Barton is so quick and the subject so compelling, I bought his book, “Setting The Record Straight: American History in Black & White.”  In the spirit of full disclosure, I bought in total seven books and “The American Heritage Series” DVD.  I now have some study I am eager to do.

National news organizations describe Barton as an “America’s historian” and Time Magazine named him as one of “America’s 25 most influential evangelicals.”  More to the local connection, Barton is a graduate of Oral Roberts University.  As are other ORU alumni, Barton is putting his education, intellect and passion for God to good purpose; an example of what Oral Roberts intended for the alumni from the university’s founding.

David Barton founded and serves as president of WallBuilders, a national pro-family organization that presents America's forgotten history and heroes, with an emphasis on moral, religious and constitutional heritage.  According to his online biography, the name “WallBuilders” is taken from the Old Testament writings of Nehemiah, who led a grassroots movement to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem and restore its strength and honor.  In the same way, WallBuilders seeks to energize Americans today to become involved in strengthening their communities, states, and nation.

Barton is the author of numerous best-selling books, with the subjects being drawn largely from his massive library of tens of thousands of original writings from the Founding Era.  He also addresses well over 400 groups each year.

Wednesday night Barton referenced Daniel Webster’s quote, “History is God’s Providence in human affairs.”  He went on to say that in the current state of education in America, “we have been taught negatives of American history” a process Barton names “Deconstructionism” and “Poststructuralism.”

In illustration, Barton likened the story of a magnificent office building toured by critics who then steadily and over time release nitpicking and marginally relevant negative reviews to destroy the reputation and, thereby, the success and public acceptance of the structure.

Barton is a researcher’s researcher.   His attention to detail in investigative efforts of original sources has rendered him an expert in historical and constitutional issues.  He often serves as a consultant to state and federal legislators, has participated in several cases at the Supreme Court, was involved in the development of the History/Social Studies standards for states such as Texas and California, and has helped produce history textbooks now used in schools across the nation.

Barton is a frequent guest on FOX News and the FOX Business cable channels.  Inspired by his past presentations, this writer crafted a music video.  Last evening at Victory Christian, I had the honor to present a DVD of that music video to his wife Cheryl which you can see on YouTube, click here for video.  It was recorded and filmed locally in the last week and a half for fun and in appreciation of David Barton’s inspirational contributions to current public debates.  From the Van Morrison song, “Tupelo Honey” the song, spoken word and video together are a tribute to American Liberty.

Barton has received numerous national and international awards, including Who's Who in Education, DAR's Medal of Honor, and the George Washington Honor Medal from the Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge. His work in media has merited several Angel Awards, Telly Awards, and the Dove Foundation Seal of Approval.  David and his wife Cheryl have three grown children, Damaris, Timothy, and Stephen, and reside in Aledo, TX.

To reach WallBuilders online, click here.  To listen to the daily radio show and podcasts from WallBuilders online, click here.