1.2: The Constitution
Use these slides prepared by Dr. Scott as a reference for taking notes while watching the Constitution lectures this unit.
Watch these lectures to gain some general understanding of important terms and concepts for learning about the Constitution.
Read this chapter, which provides a solid background on the events leading up to the first American political system, the principles embedded in the Constitution, and how the media depicts the Constitution and constitutional issues. This text will feature prominently throughout this course. The authors offer a unique perspective on government and politics and their relationship to media in the 21st century. Each chapter ties media to the particular institution, process, or policy area under study, and presents the most common media depictions of its subject.
1.2.1: Historical Underpinnings - Colonial Times and Independence
In order to understand how American government works, it is important to grasp why it was created. This brief history compiled by the National Archives explains some of the problems that the Founding Fathers faced when America was a colony under British rule. These grievances shaped American thought and greatly influenced the formation of the American government. The language used in the Declaration of Independence provides some insight into how Founding Fathers designed the Constitution in a way that would prevent tyranny of the majority.
Read the text of the Declaration of Independence.
1.2.2: Early Government - The Articles of Confederation
Read this excerpt, which provides background information on the Articles of Confederation. The Articles of Confederation were the first constitution of the United States. Adopted in 1781 during the throes of the Revolutionary War, the Articles eventually produced too weak a government. These articles explain some of its most glaring defects. Representatives of the states later held a constitutional convention to address these weaknesses.
Read the text of the Articles of Confederation.
1.2.3: The Constitutional Convention of 1787 - Debates and Compromises
Read the Preamble to the Constitution and the associated annotations.
Read this article, which provides some background information on the concerns of the Founding Fathers - tyranny, representation, and slavery, to name a few - and the compromises they were forced to make when drafting the Constitution. This article outlines the times and the principles that shaped and continue to influence American political culture and showcases textbook examples of the art of political compromise.
1.2.4: Constitutional Principles
Watch this two-part presentation about the core principles and structure of the Constitution.
1.2.5: The Ratification Debate - Federalists vs. Anti-Federalists
Read this article for background information on the role that the Bill of Rights played in securing ratification of the Constitution. Led by vocal anti-federalist factions, several states were concerned about the national government overreaching its power and insisted that the Constitution include provisions for guaranteeing individual liberties. Be sure to consider the discussion questions at the end of the article.
Read this short excerpt about the Federalist Papers. This excerpt explains how advocates of ratification tried to convince the public to support the Constitution. The Federalist Papers, which were 85 essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay, outlined the philosophy and motivation of the proposed system of government, and served (and continue to serve) as a primary source for interpretation of the Constitution. This excerpt provides background information on the Federalist Papers and should serve as a reference point when you read Federalist 10 and 51.
Read Federalist 10 and 51, two of the most famous Federalist Papers written by James Madison. These are among the most highly regarded of all American political writings. For Federalist 10, identify why Madison believes that the Constitution provides for a form of government that will control factionalism and fulfill the will of the people. Federalist 51 addresses the means by which appropriate checks and balances can be created in a democracy, and advocates a separation of powers within the national government. One of its most important ideas is the oft-quoted phrase "Ambition must be made to counteract ambition."
1.2.6: The Constitution Today - A Living Document
Read this short excerpt on how the Constitution has been interpreted over time. The framers realized that they could not possibly plan for every circumstance or situation. As such, they provided an amendment process by which the Constitution and its laws could be modified as society grew and changed.
Read these annotated amendments to the Constitution.
Read this short excerpt about the idea that the Constitution is a "living document," which implies that interpretation of the Constitution must evolve to meet the needs of contemporary society.
Checkpoint
Answer these ungraded questions to see how well you have understood the course material in this section.