The U.S. Constitution, featuring profiles on Founding Fathers, a comprehensive collection of amendments, and a wealth of historical documents.
Online since 1995.
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Historical Context of the Second Amendment The Second Amendment, ratified in 1791, states: "A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed."…
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Virtual Constitutional Conventions
Historical Context of Constitutional Amendments The U.S. Constitution has been amended through a structured process involving Congress and state legislatures. This process requires a two-thirds majority in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, followed by ratification by three-fourths…
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George Mason Biography
George Mason, a prominent figure in colonial Virginia, played a pivotal role in shaping the foundational documents of the United States. His commitment to individual rights and opposition to tyranny made him influential in the movement toward American independence. Early…
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Rule of Law in Constitution
Foundational Role of Constitutions Constitutions mold society by crafting the country's legal foundation, guiding governance, and protecting citizens' rights. They set ground rules for behavior and create a system of consequences for violators. This foundation supports democracy, promotes human rights,…
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Founders’ Views on Property Rights
Historical Context of Property Rights English constitutional tradition, particularly its respect for property rights, shaped the Founders. Magna Carta, from 1215, protected individuals from arbitrary seizure of property by the king. This principle influenced the American legal framework. Locke believed…
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Supreme Court Cases That Shaped America
1. Marbury v. Madison (1803) The key questions were whether Marbury had a right to his commission and whether the Court had the authority to compel Madison to deliver it. Chief Justice John Marshall's decision was groundbreaking. He acknowledged Marbury's…
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Constitution and National Unity
Foundational Principles of the Constitution Popular sovereignty lies at the core of our constitutional structure. This principle signifies that all governmental power derives from the consent of the governed. The Framers put this into practice, creating a system accountable to…
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Classical Republicanism’s Influence
Classical Republicanism: Origins and Principles Classical republicanism traces its origins back to ancient Greece and Rome, where civic virtue and the common good took center stage in political thought. Aristotle painted a picture of man as a political animal, or…
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Constitution on War and Peace
War Powers Allocation Article I, Section 8, Clause 11 states that Congress has the power to declare war. Initially, the draft of the Constitution granted Congress the power to make war. There were suggestions to give this power solely to…
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Top Myths and Facts About Founding Fathers
1. The Constitution Was Written on Parchment The Constitution and the Declaration of Independence were crafted on parchment made from animal skin, not hemp paper. While hemp paper was prevalent during that era, the final versions of these foundational documents…