The Blessings of Liberty: A Concise History of the Constitution of the United States

by Michael Les Benedict

This concise, accessible text covers important trends and events in U.S. constitutional history, encompassing key Supreme Court and lower-court cases. The volume begins by discussing the English and colonial origins of American constitutionalism. Following an analysis of the American Revolution's meaning to constitutional history, the text traces the Constitution's evolution from the Early Republic to the present day. The Second Edition addresses the constitutional issues surrounding the impeachment of President Clinton and the Patriot Act, among other recent events.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Politics, Law

512 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1996

About the author

A historian specializing in Anglo-American legal history and the Civil War era, Michael Les Benedict taught at Ohio State University from 1970 until his retirement in 2005. He earned his B.A. and M.A. degrees from the University of Illinois and his PhD from Rice University.

Reviews

[Krislo · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the textbook for my American Legal History class. I actually liked this book because it was easy to read and understand. It explained the significance of important acts and cases relating to constitutional law without being too long-winded. It also did not shy away from the struggles that oppressed groups such as women and African Americans have had to face throughout American history.

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very accessible, concise history of constitutional law in the United States. A clear description of the origins of our constitution and the tests and crises, our democracy has withstood. Very timely and relevant!

[Aren Lerner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very enlightening and thought-provoking. The author can be praised for trying to avoid letting his own political views slant the text, but they do come through very plainly nonetheless. Still, the information is presented and connections made between society, politics, and law that are educational and insightful.