Connecticutt, one of the original 13 Colonies, and situated quite near the scene of North America's first attempt to disarm the citizenry in 1775 leading to the opening shots of the (first?) American Revolution.

That revolution was not strongly supported by a majority of the population. Relatively few supported the revolt, and many actively sided with the King's forces against their neighbors in revolt. Others fled to Canada and England. Many merchants and farmers refused to provide supplies to those involved in the revolution. Even after the Continental Army was formed it was difficult to recruit citizens into its service, enlistments were typically limited to about 90 days, and many simply went back home when the new Continental Congress was unable to feed, clothe, shelter, or pay them. Those known to be involved frequently saw their homes destroyed, their businesses and land confiscated, and their families disappear.

Even so, what was thought to be impossible actually happened. Rag-tag colonials succeeded in resisting tyranny, defeated one of the best military forces of that time (as well as the mercenaries paid by the King to suppress the rebellion). A new nation came into being, one dedicated to the rights of individual citizens and the principles of self-determination and self-government.

The Tree of Liberty was planted; now those who would rule the lives of others are intent upon pruning that tree. As Mr. Jefferson commented, from time to time the Tree of Liberty must be watered with the blood of patriots and tyrants.

Every one of us who holds our liberties dear, those of us who cherish our Constitution, owe our support to our fellow citizens in Connecticutt who are now standing up against a government that has forgotten its proper purpose.

Mr. Jefferson also spoke of the individual duty to resist tyranny. Peaceful civil disobedience (refusal to comply with unconstitutional laws) is honorable and, arguably, a protected form of the freedoms of speech and association. Coupled with good use of the soap box and the ballot box, we may yet be able to avoid resorting to the bullet box this time around.

As this situation in Connecticutt develops every one of us needs to look for means by which we can support our fellow citizens. Speaking in support, letters to the editor, funds for campaigning and legal services, all can make a difference.

Personally, I wouldn't mind seeing a few hundred thousand Americans join up in Connecticutt for a public demonstration, each with an unregistered large-capacity magazine publicly displayed. I seriously doubt that Connecticutt has enough empty jail cells, trial court capabilities, or the will to attempt to arrest us all.

Peaceful civil disobedience, conducted by large groups of citizens and repeated regularly as well as over a wide portion of the state, might just get the would-be usurpers of individual rights to sing a different tune.

Road trip time?