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U.S. Constitution, featuring profiles on Founding Fathers, a comprehensive collection of amendments, and a wealth of historical documents.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 Evolution of the Takings Clause The Takings Clause of the Fifth Amendment, asserting "nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation," has evolved significantly through U.S. Supreme Court interpretations. Initially focused on direct physical appropriations,…
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First Amendment & Flag Burning
Historical Context of the First Amendment The First Amendment, a pivotal provision in the U.S. Constitution, was a direct outcome of the philosophical and political ideals that flourished during the Enlightenment period. The framers, influenced by the works of philosophers…
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Late Fee Cap Unconstitutional?
What prompted the late fee cap regulation? Why was the late fee cap rule challenged? The American Bankers Association (ABA) and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce challenged the late fee cap rule due to concerns over its potential consequences on…
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Tenth Amendment Analysis
Historical Context of the Tenth Amendment At the Constitutional Convention of 1787, the structure of American government and the balance of power between states and the federal government were key topics of discussion. The Virginia Plan, crafted by James Madison…
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US President Appointments Clause
Understanding the Appointments Clause The Appointments Clause in Article II, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution grants the President significant powers to affect the leadership of the federal government. It states, "[The President] shall nominate, and by and with the…
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15th Amendment Voting Rights
Historical Context and Ratification In the aftermath of the Civil War, the United States grappled with the reconstruction of the Southern states and the integration of millions of freed slaves into American civic life. The Fifteenth Amendment, focused on securing…
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27th Amendment Journey
Origins of the 27th Amendment The 27th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which controls how and when pay changes for members of Congress can take effect, has a backstory steeped in the early principles and procedural intricacies of American governance.…
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James Wilson Biography
Early Life and Education James Wilson's journey from Scotland to American greatness is marked by resilience and intellectual prowess. Born on September 14, 1742, in Carskerdo, Scotland, he studied at prestigious institutions like St. Andrews, Edinburgh, and Glasgow, gaining a…
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22nd Amendment Analysis
Historical Context and Creation of the 22nd Amendment Franklin Delano Roosevelt's unprecedented four-term presidency from 1933 to 1945 sparked a vigorous debate about the potential for excessive accumulation of executive power. The convention of a two-term limit, set forth informally…
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2nd Amendment & State Militia Intent
Historical Context of the Second Amendment The late 18th century was a period of significant upheaval and transformation, laying the crucial foundations for the drafting of the U.S. Constitution and the Second Amendment. Events leading up to these pivotal legal…