Product Description
This ebook contains the complete text of the Constitution of the United States of America, including the Bill of Rights and all other amendments. This edition was formatted specifically for the Kindle and is fully annotated and hyperlinked.

As a free bonus this ebook also contains the Declaration of Independence. ... Read more

Product Description
The Constitution of the United States of America, with The Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Rights and all of the Amendments. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Only bill of rights
CAUTION. This is only the Bill of Rights, and NOT the Constitution and other amendments.Only .99, but I wanted it all and Amazon. Doesn't seem to have a way to. Complain about the misleading title. ... Read more

Product Description
“Let no more be heard of confidence in man, but bind him down from mischief by the chains of the Constitution.”
—Thomas Jefferson

The United States Constitution—the bedrock of our country, the foundation of our federal republic—is . . . dead.

You won’t hear that from the politicians who endlessly pay lip service to the Constitution. It’s the dirty little secret that bestselling authors Thomas E. Woods Jr. and Kevin R. C. Gutzman expose in this provocative new book. The fact is that government officials—Democrats and Republicans, presidents, judges, and congresses alike—long ago rejected the idea that the Constitution possesses a fixed meaning limiting the U.S. government’s power.

In case you’ve forgotten, this idea was not a minor aspect of the Constitution; it was the document’s very purpose.

Woods and Gutzman round up the suspects responsible for the death of the government the Founding Fathers designed. Going right to the scenes of the crimes, they dissect twelve of the most egregious assaults on the Constitution—some virtually unknown. In chronicling this “dirty dozen,” the authors show that the attacks began long before presidents declared preemptive wars, congresses built pork-barrel bridges to nowhere, and Supreme Court justices began to behave as our supreme legislators.

In Who Killed the Constitution? Woods and Gutzman

• REVEAL the federal government’s “great gold robbery”—the flagrant assault on the Constitution you never heard about in history class
• DESTROY the phony case for presidential war power
• EXPOSE how the federal government has actively discriminated to end . . . discrimination
• TEAR DOWN the “wall of separation” between church and state—an invention that completely contradicts what the Constitution says
• DARE to touch the “third rail of American jurisprudence,” Brown v. Board of Education—showing why a government decision that seems “right” isn’t necessarily constitutional

Never shying away from controversy, Woods and Gutzman reveal an unsettling but unavoidable truth: now that the federal government has broken free of the Constitution’s chains, government officials are restrained by little more than their sense of what they can get away with.

Who Killed the Constitution? is a rallying cry for Americans outraged by government run amok and a warning to take heed before we lose the liberties we are truly entitled to.


From the Hardcover edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (22)

Amazing.. We are absolutely blind followers
After finishing this book I was quite amazed at the abuses of power that we have been exposed to. The author focused on just a few major constitutional "abuses" but it's absolutely shocking that most of them happened in the 20th century. You would think with information improving in speed and people generally becoming more aware you wouldn't see this happening. This book really should make you question our government and it happens whether we have a Democrat or Republican in office.. Beware and be aware of what they are doing.

Brings up good points, but not enough to convince me it is more than a list of talking points
It was barely a chapter in when I started to think "Hmmm, this book could go one of two ways. It could consist of endless slippery slope arguments and the same strict originalist rhetoric used by partisans in a last-ditch attempt to stake out a moral high ground for propping up injustice, or it could be an interesting explanation for the real reasoning behind Supreme Court decisions for non-lawyers. A lesson that most law students learn in their first year is that "constitutional interpretation" is and has always been largely about logic applied to the personal preferences of the justices in order to justify an outcome they see as both politically tenable and morally right. Surprisingly, the book mixed both.

Wood and Gutzman focus too much on the 20th Century, omitting detailed discussion of the jurisprudence of John Marshall, the Louisiana Purchase (by Jefferson), and the Federal Bank. This is where any inquiry into the death of the Constitution must begin, and its absence is striking (if the main target of the book, progressives beginning with Teddy Roosevelt, is not immediately obvious). A chapter devoted to the first 40 years of Constitutional interpretation would have clued the reader into the fact that the Constitution stopped being strictly interpreted very shortly after it's inception. To automatically cede the moral high ground to the party with the "strictest" interpretation of the constitution (another area for lawyers to debate endlessly) is to invite yet another kind of tyranny.

Andrew Jackson once said about the Court "John Marshall has made his decision, now let him enforce it." The most obvious check on judicial power is the refusal of the people to recognize Supreme Court decisions as enforceable because they are so ridiculous, which the court understands (see O'Connor's opinion in Casey) and which brought about the 1937 Revolution in commerce jurisprudence or the court's decision in Korematsu. What people should take from this book is the simple lesson that smart legal minds can twist anything to seem constitutional, and that people should closely scrutinize the decisions of their elected leaders, even if they are couched in constitutionality. On this, the book offers reasons both the left (freedom of speech, presidential war powers, marijuana reform) and the right (prayer in schools, affirmative action, federalism) should be concerned.

The authors cannot attempt to articulate a valid solution, the book is too short and, more importantly, no politically viable solution exists. The authors present a series of vignettes devoid of any context, and fail to consider the possibility (probability) that under their regime of strict interpretation there would not be a constitution- the country would have long since descended into anarchy and civil strife.

an eye opener
Well researched and written, it has caused me to question my opinion of many of the great leaders. This lays bare the egos and idiosyncrasies of all the presidents for these years, how they all ruled and left their mark on our country. No matter how well meaning they may have been, they all have chipped away at our constitution: some a little and others a lot. This book has made me realize just how close to impossible it will be to try and restore the constitution back to as close as the original form.

Constitutional Erosion
WHO KILLED THE CONSTITUTION is a historical survey of the twelve worst assaults on the Constitution.
These date from the WWI (Wilson) era to the George W. Bush administration.

Some of the subjects that the authors covered were:

*The claims over the years of "inherent powers" by the executive branch.
*Suppression of the Freedom of Speech associated with the Sedition and Espionage Acts.
*Activist Supreme Courts who legislated from the bench.
*The power to declare war being usurped by various presidents.
*Presidential abuses related to executive orders and the now infamous "signing statements".

There is a quote from Grover Norquist on page 194.
"If you interpret the Constitution's saying that the president is commander in chief to mean that the president can do anything he wants and ignore the laws you don't have a constitution: you have a king."

This book is an interesting lesson on American political history. The authors demonstrate that all three branches of our government have been ignorant of the Constitution at times.
Bear in mind that there is a newer edition that includes the Obama administration.

Yoo hoo Constitution, where are you?
Thomas Woods and Kevin Gutzman's book on the tossing aside of the US Constitution serves as a wake-up call for people who try to hold on to this vital document to defend themselves against the ever-expanding state.

Woods' and Gutzman's book is 260 pages in length and it includes an appendix containing the US Constitution and its amendments, endnotes and a short index. The text itself covers 12 cases dating from World War I to the George W. Bush era where the authors contend that the federal government had overstepped its constitutionally-mandated boundaries.All three branches of government as well as both major parties go to the authors' woodshed where the government's advocacy of such things as draft laws, gold seizures, marijuana laws and forced busing comes under excoriating rebuke.

I found this volume to be very readable and relatively easy to understand except for the chapter on the President's foreign policy powers which was a challenge to grasp in terms of the federalist concepts on such subject matter.The information is by and large historically accurate with the sole exception of the statement that William Borah was an Idaho democrat; he was in reality a progressive republican.Nevertheless a good read.

I recommend this book to someone who wishes to arm themselves against the tyranny of centralized government.If you are either liberal or conservative, you will find information in this book discomforting.
... Read more

Product Description
This volume includes some of the most important historical documents in American history. In this edition are included the following: The Declaration of Independence of The United States of America (1776), The Constitution of the United States of America (1787), The Bill of Rights and Other Amendments to the Constitution (1791-1992), The Albany Plan (1754), The Declaration of Rights (1765 - In Response to the Stamp Act), Declaration of Rights and Grievances (1774), Virginia Declaration of Rights (1776), The Articles of Confederation (1778), Report of the Annapolis Conference (1786), Speech of Benjamin Franklin (1787 - At the Constitutional Congress), The Letter of Transmittal (1787 - Of the Constitution), Washington's Letter to Congress (1787 - Regarding the Constitution), Madison Introduces the Bill of Rights (1789), Jefferson's Wall of Separation Letter (1802), The National Anthem - The Star Spangled Banner (1814), Declaration of Sentiments (1848), Fugitive Slave Act (1850), Confederate Constitution (1861) ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Straight Forward, Great for Class.
I'll admit, you can find all these documents online for free or within the kindle selections. However, I needed several of these documents for class reference and this included some extra addresses, letters, acts and rights. I liked that since it was an actual paper and ink book I could highlight relevant text and make notes in the margins. Worth $6.00 for quick and easy reference with no hoopla.

Good reference
This is a no frills book that has all of the major documents associated with the declaration, the constitution, and ammendments. It is really a good reference to have for those of us who want to have a copy of these important documents at home. ... Read more

Product Description

All of these documents are included in their entirety, searchable by document:

Customer Reviews (1)

Not Complete
This would rate 5 stars if it included the Bill of Rights as ratified in 1791 instead of the originals submitted in 1789.Some uninformed citizen may think their freedom of speech, etc lies in their 3rd Amendment right!Seems odd to not include them as Amendments 11-27 (present day per se) are.Maybe a fix can be made? ... Read more

Product Description
This guide is the first of its kind, and presents the U.S. Constitution as never before, including a clause-by-clause analysis of the document, each amendment and relevant court case, and the documents that serve as the foundation of the Constitution. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (47)

The best there is
You will not find another book that breaks down every part of the Constitution in a more objective, factual, unbiased manner.

The best book around
A must read , especially now, for every man, women and youngster in these United States. A certain answer to why the founding fathers wrote what they did and a look into their intelligence and spirit.

We The People...
Want to learn AND UNDERSTAND our Constitution?Not just 'think' you know what it is from what you hear from mass media sound bites and others seeking to 'fundamentally change America'.GET THIS TERRIFIC PUBLICATION THAT IS EASY TO READ AND FOLLOW, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, UNDERSTAND.

KNOW WHAT YOU'RE TALIKING ABOUT THE NEXT TIME YOU ARE ENGAGED IN A CONVERSATION ABOUT YOUR COUNTRY AND ITS HERITAGE and the rights of We The People.

Remember Our Constitution
An excellent review and explanation of ourU.S. of A. Constitution. Every American could benefit from reading it.

should be required reading for all Americans!
From a person who has never read very much, this is a gem.I guard it with my life.Each Article, Section and Clause has its own unbiased explanation of what the Founding Forefathers thought or meant.It is also a great reference guide for further reading on Constitutional law. ... Read more

Product Description

Here in a beautifully bound cloth gift edition are the two founding documents of the United States of America: the Declaration of Independence (1776), our great revolutionary manifesto, and the Constitution (1787-88), in which “We the People” forged a new nation and built the framework for our federal republic. Together with the Bill of Rights and the Civil War amendments, these documents constitute what James Madison called our “political scriptures,” and have come to define us as a people. Now a Pulitzer Prize–winning historian serves as a guide to these texts, providing historical contexts and offering interpretive commentary.

In an introductory essay written for the general reader, Jack N. Rakove provides a narrative political account of how these documents came to be written. In his commentary on the Declaration of Independence, Rakove sets the historical context for a fuller appreciation of the important preamble and the list of charges leveled against the Crown. When he glosses the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the subsequent amendments, Rakove once again provides helpful historical background, targets language that has proven particularly difficult or controversial, and cites leading Supreme Court cases.A chronology of events provides a framework for understanding the road to Philadelphia. The general reader will not find a better, more helpful guide to our founding documents than Jack N. Rakove.

Customer Reviews (3)

Crackpot leftist view of the Constitution
As a leftist, Rakove predictably has a jaundiced view of the Constitution. He, like Obama and others of their ilk, finds the amazing document too restrictive for his taste, and approves of Justices finding in it whatever they wish.
For a balanced view of the meaning of the Consitution and the Amendments read Seth Lipsky's book instead.

Useful
This handsome volume contains the texts of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, all Constitutional amendments, annotations/commentary by the distinguished historian Jack Rakove, and a nice introductory essay.The bibliography is excellent.Rakove's introduction and comments provide the basic historical context and contemporary meanings of each component discussed and Rakove does well in providing important information while keeping the commentary brief.There is some reference to important legal history and Supreme Court decisions.Some aspects discussed by Rakove will be surprising to many readers, such as his emphasis on the Declaration as statement about national, rather than individual freedom.Rakove is not afraid of expressing his opinions on controversial subjects, which given his great knowledge of the subject, is welcome.In general, he is skeptical of dogmatic originialism.While you have to look in some of the footnotes, he directly attacks practices like the Reagan-BushII signing statements, which strike him as an effort to flout Presidential responsibilities.He is critical also of what he refers as the Court's recent "creation" of an individual right to bear arms.

Annotations help
It is important to understand fully the intent of authors of older texts, and well-researched annotations gives modern readers a better grasp of the original documents. ... Read more

Product Description
The monarch of ancient times mingled the functions of priest and judge. It is therefore not altogether surprising that even today a judicial system should be stamped with a certain resemblance to an ecclesiastical hierarchy. If the Church of the Middle Ages was "an army encamped on the soil of Christendom, with its outposts everywhere, subject to the most efficient discipline, animated with a common purpose, every soldier panoplied with inviolability and armed with the tremendous weapons which slew the soul," the same words, slightly varied, may be applied to the Federal Judiciary created by the American Constitution. The Judiciary of the United States, though numerically not a large body, reaches through its process every part of the nation; its ascendancy is primarily a moral one; it is kept in conformity with final authority by the machinery of appeal; it is "animated with a common purpose"; its members are "panoplied" with what is practically a life tenure of their posts; and it is "armed with the tremendous weapons" which slay legislation. And if the voice of the Church was the voice of God, so the voice of the Court is the voice of the American people as this is recorded in the Constitution.

The Hildebrand of American constitutionalism is John Marshall. The contest carried on by the greatest of the Chief Justices for the principles today associated with his name is very like that waged by the greatest of the Popes for the supremacy of the Papacy. Both fought with intellectual weapons. Both addressed their appeal to the minds and hearts of men. Both died before the triumph of their respective causes and amid circumstances of great discouragement. Both worked through and for great institutions which preceded them and which have survived them. And, as the achievements of Hildebrand cannot be justly appreciated without some knowledge of the ecclesiastical system which he did so much to develop, neither can the career of John Marshall be understood without some knowledge of the organization of the tribunal through which he wrought and whose power he did so much to exalt. The first chapter in the history of John Marshall and his influence upon the laws of the land must therefore inevitably deal with the historical conditions underlying the judicial system of which it is the capstone.


Download John Marshall And The Constitution Now! ... Read more

Product Description
If I had been guided by my judgment alone it is not probable that these notes of the debates in the Conference, held upon the invitation of Virginia, at Washington, in the month of February, 1861, would have been made public. From the commencement of its sessions, a portion of the members were in favor of the daily publication of the proceedings. I was disposed to go farther and have the sessions open to the public; but this proposition was opposed by a large majority. Strong reasons were urged for excluding the multitude which in the excitement of the time would have thronged the hall wherein the Conference held its sessions. But these reasons did not apply to the publication of the debates, and a considerable minority were strongly of opinion that the people should be informed daily, of the votes and remarks of their representatives in that body.

I commenced taking notes on the first day of the session. For the first few days, and until the reports were presented from the general committee, there was but little discussion, and that related to questions incidental to the general subject. On the 15th of February, and before the committee reported, Mr. ORTH offered a resolution authorizing the admission of reporters, which, after some discussion, by a close vote was laid upon the table. On the 18th, finding the labor of taking notes greater than I had anticipated, and desiring that a complete record should be preserved; I introduced a resolution providing for the appointment of an official stenographer, who should report the proceedings and hold them subject to the order of the Conference. I urged the adoption of this resolution as strenuously as was proper, but the feeling of the majority appeared to be still adverse to its passage, and it shared the fate of its predecessor. I then revised the notes already taken, and finding them more complete than I had anticipated, determined to make as accurate a report as I was able of the general discussion. I could not then anticipate whether such a report would be useful to the country or not; but I thought if the Conference should propose amendments to the Constitution, and these should be ultimately submitted to the States for adoption, a knowledge of the motives and reasons which influenced the action of the Conference as well as the construction which the members gave to the propositions themselves, might become of as great importance as the same subjects were in the convention which framed the present Constitution. I attended every session of the Conference, and, so far as my strength would permit, made as full and accurate notes as I could, both of the action of the Conference and the observations of its members.

Download Amendments To The Constitution Of The United States Now! ... Read more

Product Description
There is no commentary within this document.It is a translation of the original text of the Constitution of the United States of America.There is a short table of contents to jump to the individual Articles.There are no images of the original documents as they appear poorly on the reader.

The Federal Convention convened in the State House (Independence Hall) in Philadelphia on May 14, 1787, to revise the Articles of Confederation. Because the delegations from only two states were at first present, the members adjourned from day to day until a quorum of seven states was obtained on May 25. Through discussion and debate it became clear by mid-June that, rather than amend the existing Articles, the Convention would draft an entirely new frame of government. Among the chief points at issue were how much power to allow the central government, how many representatives in Congress to allow each state, and how these representatives should be elected--directly by the people or by the state legislators. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Every house should have at least one of these!
The foundations of our Republic in a pocket-sized book.Most schools don't even teach this anymore.If you love America and want your family to love her too, have this on hand and share it with them.Inexpensive and so full of the simple truths that started our country.

Pocket COnstitution, Bicentineal Paperback Review.
This is the type of Product that is usually rated based upon the quality of the Book itself rather than its contents, because the Contents, whether you agree with them or not, are a part of Cultural Heritage and History. It makes little sense to rate the Constitution itself, for most Americans would gladly give it Five Stars, all based upon Romantic Notions and Sentimentality. This document above all else defines what it means to be an American, and is thus awarded a sort of reverence few other Texts can rival. On this alone it will be Rated highly. Others who dislike it strongly enough to give it One Star will usually have equally Political or Cultural Motives behind such a Review.

It doesn't matter, though, as this is a Historical and Cultural Document, and is still the Supreme Law of the United States of America as a Federal Union, so Irrespective of how you feel about the Document, its important and should be read, especially if you are an American.

So I'll review the actual Physical Book instead.

It has a thin, lightweight paper cover, which is both advantageous to it and a Drawback. It makes it light weight and easy to open, but isn't Durable and would bend easily in a pocket, or over repeated use. The book itself is just Stapled together, but as its mainly a sort of Pamphlet this is not a Criticism. Still, this Pocket Constitution will not stand up to vigorous Wear and tear but is Easy to Read. The Picture on the Front showing (I may be wrong) George Washington is also lively.

The paper itself, though, it firm and sturdy, and a nice resin to make it Endure. The Print Quality is also sharp and well defined, making it easy to read, though the Font Size is smaller than usual to forewarn.

This Volume includes, as an Appendix, the Declaration of Independence. A part of me wishes that this was included First. I realise it's a sort of Bonus Feature to this Volume, but it was written first. Still, it's a nice addition, and adds even more Historical Value to this Volume.

It also is a nice, small, travel-sized text perfect for tucking away in a briefcase, in a book like a Bible perhaps, or in a pocket for the man on the Go. Yes women can carry it too, especially after the 19th Amendment. It'll fit in a Purse too!

Overall I rate this a 4 Star text, because I do wish the Cover was a bit re Sturdy. Still, it's a great Constitution for a Reasonable Price.

Great value for a great document
The only knock that I have is that it's not really "pocket sized" in that it is 6.3 inches high. Granted, that could probably fit ok in the inside pocket on a sports coat or something, but as far as going in a dress shirt pocket, the one published by the Cato Institute The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States of Americais much better.

But again, for $1.50 it's a value you can't beat. I should probably buy a copy to mail to my Congressmen since they have all apparently lost track of their own version.

Every US citizen should have this on hand!
We have enjoyed being citizens of the best country in the world. But now much is being done that has never been done before. We all need to be very well informed so that our nation will remain as the founders fought for our constition. A way of life is being threatened and our children and grandchildren may not have the rights, freedoms and responsibilities that has been the norm for our lives and all our parents, grandparents on back have lived and died to protect.

Wonderful!!Never Forget!!
Wonderful document.One of a kind in human history.History is full of tyrants.This book reminds us why The United States of America IS special!!!! ... Read more

Product Description
Whether you are wanting to learn more about the U.S. Constitution for your own purposes, or to teach a class, this book will be helpful to you.

Catherine has been studying the Constitution for years -- its history, its importance, its tie to other historical documents.

Here she gives you everything you need to start learning (or teaching) the U.S. Constitution!She includes the historical context of the Constitution, a lengthy timeline, explanations, review questions for after your study, and much more. ... Read more

Product Description
A Brief Introduction to American Politicsprovides a coherent and succinct account of how contemporary American politics blends enduring principles with the realities and demands of the present day. Beginning with a brief overview of American society today, the book introduces the constitutional framework of American politics and the fluid concept and practice of federalism. It also covers the major features of the representative process, looking at both elections and main players such as parties, interest groups and the media. Chapters on the major institutions of the federal government - the presidency, the Congress and the Supreme Court examines how they are simultaneously independent and constrained by each other. Chapters on domestic and foreign policy demonstrate how government and politics work in connection with the system's main outputs.A Brief Introduction to American Politicsis a shorter version of Politics USA 2nd Edition and is intended for students who need an introduction to the essential features of the American Political system. ... Read more

Product Description
In 1776 the founding fathers created a nation that would grow into a global super power. Today we are losing everything that has been built up over the last 233 years. The American economy is falling apart, our government is spending money like it is water and spending it in all the wrong ways, and the American family is almost non existent. This book is going to open eyes and drop jaws at the same time. You will be amazed at some of the terrible things that are happening right under our very noses. It doesn't matter who you are or what you do for a living, after reading this book you will know how MESSED UP things have become and what we as Americans can do to fix our country and put it back on track ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Messed Up - A must read if you care about America and life
I am half way through the book, but the pages are turning fast!Thiedehits hard the problems with this country and life in general.His narrative is direct and timely - President Obama take note!Don't mess with our tax dollars and our children's future.Thiede gives his slant on the solutions to many of our problems.His writing style is to the point, witty and funny.You don't have to agree with him, but you will come to realize as he has that there is a lot Messed Up in our lives.Happy reading.

"Messed up" The book
If you're like me you probably won't agree with every thing he says.But, you have to admit this definitely has the ring of truth. He puts it out there with an attitude. A must read for anyone who calls himself or herself an American. ... Read more

Product Description
The Declaration of Independence was the promise of a representative government; the Constitution was the fulfillment of that promise.

On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress issued a unanimous declaration: the thirteen North American colonies would be the thirteen United States of America, free and independent of Great Britain. Drafted by Thomas Jefferson, the Declaration set forth the terms of a new form of government with the following words: "We hold these Truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness."

Framed in 1787 and in effect since March 1789, the Constitution of the United States of America fulfilled the promise of the Declaration by establishing a republican form of government with separate executive, legislative, and judicial branches. The first ten amendments, known as the Bill of Rights, became part of the Constitution on December 15, 1791. Among the rights guaranteed by these amendments are freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom of religion, and the right to trial by jury. Written so that it could be adapted to endure for years to come, the Constitution has been amended only seventeen times since 1791 and has lasted longer than any other written form of government.


From the Paperback edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

You know what you're getting, and how can you go wrong at this price point?
I was looking for a token gift for a friend who recently became a US citizen - what's more appropriate than these important documents?YES, she could have found them online for free.YES, there are copies out there that are lovelier or have higher print qualities.However, I wanted her to have something that she could read, easily, when she wanted, but mostly I wanted her to have something that told her I was thinking of her.

Ultimately, what makes this volume worthwhile is the price, bar none.If you're willing to spend more, you'll get the same exact text, with a nicer presentation.If you value, well, value, then this is the edition for you.

(I also got her a "Kiss me I'm an American" t-shirt!)

A must read for our youth!
As our school system pushes aside the tenets of our founding fathers in favor of youtube projects and wikipedia, this is a must read for all eligible voters and school kids alike.

Constitution of the United States, 1791 (Summary)
Every American should know the contents of the The U.S. Constitution and review it annually.

The Constitution defines, empowers, and limits the U.S. government. After the 13 colonies had issued the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, they needed to write the Constitution in order to define the Government of the United States of America.The Constitution was signed by 39 delegates at the Constitutional Convention on September 17, 1787.The oldest person to sign the Constitution was Benjamin Franklin (81). The youngest was Jonathan Dayton ofNew Jersey (26).

Some members of the Constitutional Convention refused to sign the final document because they were fearful of an all-powerful government and wanted a bill of rights added to protect the rights of the people.The states refused to ratify the Constitution until the Bill of Rights was added.Hence the Bill of Rights became the first 10 Amendments to the Constitution in 1789.

The original U.S. Constitution was 6 pages and contained 4,400 words.It is written in plain English to be understood by all Americans.It is the oldest and the shortest written constitution of any government in the world.

Constitution of the United States 1791 (Summary)

Preamble

The Preamble defines those roles and responsibilities that are unique to the Federal Government.Justice, common defense, general welfare and tranquility, and liberty.

Articles

The first 3 articles of the Constitution define the branches of Government:

Article 1 defines the Legislature, also called Congress, comprisedof the House of Representatives and the Senate.
Article 2 defines the powers and duties of the Executive Branch (President), and the rules for impeachment
Article 3 covers the Judicial Power embodied in the Supreme Court, including the definition of treason.
Article 4 covers States rights.
Article 5 describes how the Constitution can be amended.
Article 6 relates to Constitutional supremacy.
Article 7 describes how the Constitution will be approved by the states.

Bill of Rights (first ten amendments) 1791

1 - Freedom of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition
2 - Militia and the right to keep and bear arms
3 - Housing of soldiers
4 - Freedom from unreasonable search and seizure
5 - Due process
6 - Speedy trial
7 - Trial by jury
8 - Cruel and unusual punishment
9 - Rights
10 - Powers not defined
The following Amendments have been added to the Constitution:
11 - Judicial powers (1795)
12 - Election of president and vice-president (1804)
13 - Slavery abolished (1865)
14 - Limits upon states (1868)
15 - Right to vote not limited by race (1870)
16 - Income tax (1913)
17 - Election of senators (1913)
18 - Prohibition of alcohol (1919) [repealed by 21st Amendment (1933)]
19 - Right to vote given to women (1920)
20 - Terms of office of president, vice president, senators, and representatives (1933)
21 - Repeal of Prohibition (Amendment 18) (1933)
22 - Presidency limited to two terms (1951)
23 - Presidential vote in D.C. (1961)
24 - No poll tax (1964)
25 - Presidential disability and succession (1967)
26 - Voting age lowered to 18 (1971)
27 - Congressional pay (proposed in 1789, ratified in 1992)

Check out the U.S. Constitution.You will find it both interesting and informative.

Can you spend three dollars any wiser?
If you are the least bit interested in politics and why it happens the way it does, begin here, of course! Great price, informative historical background of the document included.

The Foundations of America in One Book
Compact, thorough, and informative, the Bantam Classics edition of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States is a great book to have around. For students or anyone wanting to understand the factors that led to the writing of both of these important documents, this edition discusses the reasons that led Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and other important politicians in the newly created United States to draw up such charters.

Editor Pauline Maier does a good job of covering the background of events that led to the Declaration and Constitution. Being compact in size, I see this book as being helpful for most high school students or prospective candidates for American citizenship because it can be carried in a pocket, purse, or coat pocket, and can be pulled out whenever necessary. The book's price is also a great incentive to buy a copy, because it won't blow a hole in your budget.

Overall, a great book at a great price! ... Read more

Product Description

This book provides an original theoretical framework for assessing public investment policies co-financed by Union (Federal) governments. This framework is applied to two important case studies: the EU Cohesion Policy and the US Federal Investment Policies.

Cost-Benefit Analysis of Multi-Level Government sheds light on a number of outstanding issues of economic theory by extending the theory of shadow prices, and provides guidance to real-world decision makers. In particular, the following questions are addressed:

• In which circumstances is intervention by higher level government in Member States through investment policies justified?

• Is there a welfare economics rationale to underpin interregional equity? What is the relationship between interregional and interpersonal income distribution? How can social exclusion be included in cost-benefit tests?

• How can a higher level of government allocate financial resources to investment policies before it bargains over the related programming documents with lower levels of government?

• In these circumstances, how can optimal matching rates be derived under binding or non binding budgetary constraints?

• How can such an analytical framework provide guidance for real-world decision makers?

Guidelines such as the Impact Assessment Guidelines (European Commission), the Green Book (British Treasury), and Guidelines and Discount Rates for Benefit-Cost Analysis of Federal Programs (Executive Office of the US President) are also analyzed.

The book will be of interest to policy makers, postgraduate students and researchers in cost-benefit analysis, welfare economics, public choice, public finance, multi-level government economics, and income distribution issues.

Product Description
Roderick Hart may be among the few Americans who believe that what politicians say in a campaign actually matters. He also believes that campaigns work. Even as television coverage, political ads, and opinion polls turn elections into field days for marketing professionals, Hart argues convincingly that campaigns do play their role in sustaining democracy, mainly because they bring about a dialogue among candidates, the press, and the people. Here he takes a close look at the exchange of ideas through language used in campaign speeches, political advertising, public debates, print and broadcast news, and a wide variety of letters to the editor. In each case, the participants choose their words differently, and this, according to Hart, can be a frustrating challenge to anyone trying to make sense of the issues. Yet he finds that the process is good for Americans: campaigns inform us about issues, sensitize us to the concerns of others, and either encourage us to vote or at least heighten our sense of the political world.

Hart comes to his conclusions by using DICTION, a computer program that has enabled him to unearth substantive data, such as the many subtle shifts found in political language, over the past fifty years. This approach yields a rich variety of insights, including empirically based explanations of impressions created by political candidates. For example, in 1996 Bill Clinton successfully connected with voters by using many human-interest words--"you," "us," "people," "family." Bob Dole, however, alienated the public and even undermined his own claims of optimism by using an abundance of denial words--"can't," "shouldn't," "couldn't." Hart also tracks issue buzzwords such as "Medicare" to show how candidates and voters define and readjust their positions throughout the campaign dialogue.

In the midst of today's increased media hype surrounding elections, Americans and the candidates they elect do seem to be listening to each other--as much as they did in years gone by. Hart's wide-ranging, objective investigation upends many of our stereotypes about political life and presents a new, more bracing, understanding of contemporary electoral behavior. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Political Language - For Our Time?
Hart's book was written almost ten years ago, so his analysis of 2000 presidential campaign language is less interesting, if not less valid.Three things make this book still worth reading.Hart discusses his key word-based software used to analyze political language, presents century-long trends in political speechmaking, and compares the differing "voices" of politicians, ordinary citizens and the media.His overall approach and many of his conclusions remain relevant.

Hart's DICTION program uses key words to score the tone, rather than the content, of text passages.Data from previous analysis of political speeches, advertisements, letters to the editor, and other text samples are used to calculate expected scores for these types of documents.This information can be used to determine how the speeches of a particular candidate differ from average.Hart's five primary scales are:

- Certainty - Language that indicates resoluteness, inflexibility and completeness
- Optimism - Highlighting positive attributes of people, concepts or events
- Activity - Indicating movement, change and implementation of ideas
- Realism - Describing tangible, immediate matters from everyday life
- Commonality - Indicating group values rather than individualism or idiosyncrasy

Each scale has its own structure and subscales, outlined in Appendix 1 of the book.Hart uses these scales to examine patterns of political language, showing for example that more "Optimistic" campaigns tend to be more successful.He also shows that speeches from the same candidates shift from "Optimistic" to "Realistic" language following successful election, regardless of party affiliation.The book is full of such findings, both intuitive and counterintuitive.Once readers understand the DICTION approach, well explained in the first chapter, they are able to understand and evaluate Hart's conclusions based on it in the remainder of the book.

Most interesting is Hart's comparative analysis of how politicians and the media communicate--summarized in Chapter 8 (p. 210).According to Hart's findings, politicians score high on Realism, Self-Reference, Tenacity, Patriotic Terms, Inspiration, Praise and Satisfaction.They score lower than normal on dimensions of Insistence, Political Party Reference and References to Other Political Leaders.Media communications score at the opposite ends of these ten scales while ordinary citizens (in letters to the editor, etc.) score in the middle.These 2000 findings would be interesting to compare to language from the 2008 campaign, a time of less positive politicians and greater media partisanship.

Interested readers can find more DICTION-based language research by Hart and his colleagues in Political Keywords: Using Language that Uses Us, The Sound of Leadership: Presidential Communication in the Modern Age, and The Political Pulpit Revisited.His program remains useful for understanding variations in language tone in collections of documents.

An new way of looking at presidential elections
Hart's book is an extraordinary read for anyone whose sick of hearing the same old things about presidential elections.Hart's book is essentially the findings of his research.Hart looks at all of the modern elections and finds amazing patterns in speech.Some candidates diction would surprise you.Also Hart finds amazing correlations between winners and losers.They really do speak different languages.Finally, Hart also examines the trends in "campaign talk".It's fascinating to see how campaigns have changed in such a short amount of time.If you love politics, you will love this book. ... Read more

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"I just found your review of M[ercy] O[tis] W[arren]'s History of the Rise, Progress and Termination of the American Revolution - haven't even finished reading it. And am presently including the review on the web page for my course in Modern philosophy. In my immediate enthusiasm I just want to check to be sure someone has referred you to the wild and wonderful piece anonymously published by M[ercy] O[tis] W[arren] entitled Observations on the New Constitution By a Columbian Patriot, Boston 1788. This anti-federalist paper was long attributed to Elbridge Gerry, but was written in deep cover by M[ercy] O[tis] W[arren]. I prepared an introduction to the piece for my former wife's book American Women Philosophers 1650-1930 [edited by Therese Boos Dykeman, now out of print]. It contains the Observations; by now there are a number of places you can find Observations - but as of now no place on the Internet. Just wanted to send off this quick note -- hopefully I will get back with some other comments on M[ercy] O[tis] W[arren]. I am so happy to find your work on a CD. Being able to discover the arguments she attributes to the "some" who attacked the constitution before it's ratification in her History. Through the use of the 'find' operation on a computer has been such a joy. It is great to find another enthusiast."

King sent me xeroxes of Mercy's Observations which I posted at www.samizdat.com/warren/observations.html, a Mercy Warren chronology www.samizdat.com/warren/chronology.html, a general introduction about her which he first delivered at a conference at the University of California at Santa Cruz www.samizdat.com/warren/generalintroduction.html and this introduction to Observations which he wrote for American Women Philosophers.



Download Introduction To Observations On The New Constitution Now! ... Read more

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This second edition text offers a consideration of the major influences and developments in US foreign policy since the mid-60s that focuses upon the interaction between foreign policy institutions, public opinion, the changing international environment and substantive foreign policy. Primarily for non-American readers and researched in US archives, the book is written in the context both of the debate on US decline and the move to post-Cold War conditions. ... Read more