Published: 11/06/2025
Historically, the Federal Government played a much smaller role in the lives of Americans. In fact, it was not until 1913 that Americans began to witness an explosive growth of the Federal Government leading to the unconstitutional behemoth that Americans live under today. It should not surprise anyone that the timing coincided with the 1913 Federal Reserve Act.
Sadly, the growth of the Federal Government and the expansion of its powers led to a perceived dependency on the Federal Government by many Americans. The shackles of this dependency were further strengthened by mandates requiring children to be placed in government schools. The result was as predictable as the effects of gravity, an increased belief in the necessity of a large government that “took care of” the American people.
What few Americans realize is that the Federal Government was not always open year-round. From 1789-1865, the Federal Government was shut down for eight to ten months every year. From 1865-1910, the Federal Government was shut down for six to eight months every year. It was not until 1930 that the Federal Government began to stay open year-round. So frankly, anyone claiming this is the longest shutdown in history is intentionally lying to generate fear among constituents.
Americans should view the Federal Government shutdown as a blessing in disguise; it allows Americans to realize how little they need the Federal Government in their daily lives. Frankly, aside from charity programs at the Federal level such as SNAP (unconstitutional per the 10th Amendment), air traffic controllers, and government contractors, most Americans would not even know the Federal Government was shut down if not for the media.
Americans should take advantage of the Federal Government shutdown to wean themselves off the teat of government and embrace true independence.