Today in 1787 the final draft of the U.S. Constitution was signed. And, though it has been amended 27 times, the original has never been altered. In addition to providing the “supreme law of the land,” it has been an inspiration for many around the world because of its promotion of the rule of law, its system of checks and balances, and its regard for individual freedoms. Learn more about our incredible national document through the resources below.
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BOOKS:
America’s Constitution – Akhil Reed Amar
- Offers an analysis of the history and tenets of the U.S. Constitution, detailing the original intent of the creators of the document, answering questions about the text, and critically assessing the evolution of the Bill of Rights and all other amendments.
The Constitution: An Introduction – Michael Stokes Paulsen
- Constitutional scholar Michael Stokes Paulsen and his son Luke provide a clear, accessible introduction to the history and meaning of this historic document, beginning with the Constitution’s birth in 1787, the authors offer a grand tour of its history and interpretations, introducing readers to the characters and controversies that have shaped this founding instrument in the 200-plus years since its creation.
The Summer of 1787: The Men Who Invented the Constitution – David O. Stewart
- Traces the events of the Constitutional Convention of 1787 in a historical account that covers such topics as the fierce conflicts that influenced the writing of the Constitution, the issues that divided the states, and the contributions of key players.
The United States Constitution: A Graphic Adaptation – Jonathan Hennessey
- Covers each article and amendment of the Constitution in a graphic format designed to be relevant and accessible to modern readers.
Unruly Americans and the Origins of the Constitution – Woody Holton
- Examines the original intent behind the writing of the Constitution and how it was shaped by the reactions, occasionally violent ones, of citizens to include a protection of civil liberties and the freedom of the people.
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VIDEO
Our Constitution: A Conversation
The United States Constitution and Bill of Rights
WEBSITES
The Annenberg Guide to the United States Constitution (Annenberg Center)
Constitution Day (constitutioncenter.org)
United States Constitution (Library of Congress)
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