The Writing and Ratification of the U.S. Constitution: Practical Virtue in Action

by John R. Vile

The Writing and Ratification of the U.S. Practical Virtue in Action examines the events surrounding the development of the U.S. Constitution. Setting these events within the context of the colonial conflict with Britain and the experience with state constitutions under the Articles of Confederation, John R. Vile discusses the delegates who attended the Constitutional Convention of 1787, the major plans and proposals that delegates offered, and the arguments that delegates made both in the Convention and in subsequent state ratifying debates that ultimately led to the adoption of the U.S. Bill of Rights. Vile contends that the Convention and subsequent ratifying conventions were not mere exercises in political theory but practical attempts to formulate a workable government that all the states would ratify. Focusing chiefly on records of debates at the Convention, the book is a legal brief, identifying key facts, issues, arguments, and compromises, and providing a unique window into the contestation surrounding this keystone American political moment. This book is perfect for scholars and students in the field of American political history and development.

344 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2012

Reviews

[Piker7977 · Rating 2 out of 5]

Reading this was a drudgery. It is summarized version of the Farrand volumes. It had the feel of a secondary source masquerading as a primary source. Reading the Farrand volumes, or Madison's Notes on the Convention, would be more worthwhile if you are looking for the dialogues of the convention. If you are looking for a narrative account of the Convention, then look elsewhere. I would have liked to have read the author's thoughts and arguments instead of a recap.

Succinctly summarizing the ideas of the Convention of 1787 doesn't work here. There are too many rich ideas and arguments to boil down without adding any literary or historical flare.

[Valeria · Rating 3 out of 5]

this is an extremely detailed book that goes through the minutiae of day to day discussions and proposals that led to the writing and ratification of the constitution. Although it had wonderful info, it was extremely dry. Maybe a law student would be able to appreciate it more than me.