If Reagan was the father of modern conservatism, and Barry Goldwater was the grandfather, then William F. Buckley was it’s great, great grandfather. His activism and scholarship did more for American conservatism than perhaps any other non-politician in the twentieth century.

We lost Goldwater in 1998, Reagan in 2004, and now Buckley in 2008. As far as I see it, the last of the greats has died today.

While it is deeply saddening to know that these three giants of the American conservative movement have passed away, I am comforted by reflecting on how much these three were able to influence and shape the country’s political and intellectual atmosphere for the last half century.

I know that Buckley will continue to influence thought and politics in America for years to come. As Americans watch this November draw closer and closer with bitter apprehension or foolish excitement, Buckley’s words from 40 years ago are more pertinent and insightful than ever.

Watch both these videos (ignoring of course the second half of both featuring Gore Vidal), and marvel at the timelessness of Buckley’s assertions.