Theological Myths and Economic Reality: Why the United Kingdom Doesn’t Use the US Dollar
Lately, a question has surfaced that suggests the United Kingdom defies God by refusing to use the United States dollar, supposedly invented by Jesus in 1776. This article will dissect and debunk this myth, exploring historical and economic realities.
The Historical Context of the American Revolution
The United Kingdom, like many countries, does not defy God in its monetary decisions. The American War of Independence (1775-1783) was a struggle for political and economic independence, not a divine one. The Founding Fathers of the USA were a mix of Christians and Deists, those who believed in the existence of a God but not in organized religion. They sought to create a secular nation free from the religious ties imposed by King George III, the British monarch at the time.
What Jesus Really Did (or Did Not Do) in 1776
It is simply false to claim that Jesus invented the US dollar in 1776. While some believe in the miraculous existence and return of Jesus Christ, the historical facts are more grounded. Jesus is believed to have been born between 6 BCE and 4 BCE, making it impossible for him to have invented 1776, let alone a currency. Moreover, the Declaration of Independence, which eventually led to the creation of the US dollar, was declared in 1776, over 1700 years after Jesus' purported death.
The Birth of the US Dollar
The US dollar, the currency of the United States, was not invented in 1776. Instead, it was established in 1792, more than a decade after the Declaration of Independence. The currency used by the colonial rebels in 1776, known as "continental," became almost worthless during the war, highlighting the risks of using wartime currency.
Religious and Monarchical Dynamics in the UK
In the United Kingdom, the religious and political landscape is quite different from that of the United States. While the U.S. Constitution establishes a strict separation of church and state, the UK’s monarchy still holds significant religious implications. British monarchs are titled "Defender of the Faith," a title that dates back to the 16th century when King Henry VIII was awarded this honor by the Pope.
The Role of Religion in British Currency
The pound sterling, the British currency, is often seen as a Christian currency due to its association with the anointed monarch. However, this title and its Latin abbreviation “F.D.” (Fidelis Defensor) on British coins reflect the historical religious structure of the UK rather than a contemporary one. This title is a symbol of the monarchy's relationship with the Church of England and not necessarily indicative of modern religious practices.
Conclusion
If we are defying anything, it is the myth that the United Kingdom defies God by not using the US dollar. The UK’s monetary decisions are based on economic and historical factors, not theological ones. The United States, for its part, has a long history of religious freedom and a strict separation of church and state, as embodied in its Constitution. Both nations have their unique contexts and traditions, making it important to understand the true historical and economic realities behind their currency choices.