Thanks for pointing that out about it being a choice and not a slip.
The difference between a subject owing allegience to a sovereign, and citizens who are the sovereigns, is enormous. Too bad the majority of Americans are ignorant of that fact.
It was truly a break with the feudalism of Europe.
Can you imagine the fear and excitement? Fear of making a mistake and the excitement of creating something unique! I try to imagine the range of emotions and the burden it must have been. A fledgling nation, looking to these men for guidance. And a perfect government. It makes ones heart quail!