usconstitution.net

The U.S. Constitution, featuring profiles on Founding Fathers, a comprehensive collection of amendments, and a wealth of historical documents.

Online since 1995.

  • First Amendment and Social Media Social media platforms have become significant spaces for free expression, complicating the relationship between individual rights and the First Amendment, particularly regarding government actors. Recent court decisions have helped clarify how constitutional rights apply in…

  • Origins and Early Years of the NRA The National Rifle Association (NRA) was founded in 1871 by Civil War veterans Col. William C. Church and Gen. George Wingate. Their initial goal was to improve marksmanship among U.S. citizens, addressing concerns…

  • Understanding Free Market Principles in Healthcare Healthcare’s financial landscape differs greatly from shopping for everyday goods. The free market’s usual interplay of supply and demand often becomes an awkward shuffle in healthcare. Consider the basic principle of competition. In other…

  • Partisan Views on Immigration The immigration debate in the United States remains sharply divided along partisan lines. Republicans prioritize border security, with 91% viewing it as critical compared to 59% of Democrats. Democrats focus on pathways to legalization, especially for…

  • Historical Context of Family Structures Family structures have evolved over time, reflecting societal changes. Extended families were common in early American history, particularly in agricultural settings. These arrangements provided resilience and shared responsibilities among relatives. As industrialization progressed, nuclear families—consisting…

  • State Flexibility in Welfare Programs Welfare reform discussions often center on giving states more autonomy to customize their programs. States already have some flexibility, but many advocate for increased control. The rationale is that local governments better understand their citizens'…

  • The conversation around policing and community safety has gained attention in recent years, focusing on resource allocation and law enforcement's role in addressing societal issues. As communities seek effective ways to enhance public safety, the concept of reallocating police funds…

  • Parental rights are deeply rooted in American legal and cultural traditions. As we examine the evolving landscape of these rights, it's important to consider how historical precedents continue to shape current debates, particularly in education and healthcare. Historical Context of…

  • Constitutional Basis for National Defense The Constitution establishes the foundation for national defense through distinct provisions: This structure ensures no single branch wields excessive military power. Over time, the balance between congressional authority and executive power has evolved, with Congress…

  • Historical Context of Faith in American Politics Religion has played a significant role in American politics since the nation's founding. The Constitution deliberately refrained from enshrining any one faith while allowing room for individual religious liberty. This careful balance has…