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The Declaration of Independence / The Constitution of the United States
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.
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.
112 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 1776
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About the author
Founding Fathers
179 books664 followersThe term Founding Fathers of the United States of America refers broadly to the individuals of the Thirteen British Colonies in North America who led the American Revolution against the authority of the British Crown and established the United States of America. It is also used more narrowly, referring specifically to those who either signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776 or who were delegates to the 1787 Constitutional Convention and took part in drafting the proposed Constitution of the United States. A further subset includes those who signed the Articles of Confederation. During much of the 19th century, they were referred to as either the "Founders" or the "Fathers".
Some historians define the "Founding Fathers" to mean a larger group, including not only the Signers and the Framers but also all those who, whether as politicians, jurists, statesmen, soldiers, diplomats, or ordinary citizens, took part in winning American independence and creating the United States of America. Historian Richard B. Morris in 1973 identified the following seven figures as the key Founding Fathers: John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and George Washington . Adams, Jefferson, and Franklin worked on the committee to draft the Declaration of Independence. Hamilton, Madison, and Jay were authors of the The Federalist Papers, advocating ratification of the Constitution. Washington commanded the revolutionary army. All served in important positions in the early government of the United States.
DOB based on First Continental Congress
DOD based on death of James Madison, last surviving member
Some historians define the "Founding Fathers" to mean a larger group, including not only the Signers and the Framers but also all those who, whether as politicians, jurists, statesmen, soldiers, diplomats, or ordinary citizens, took part in winning American independence and creating the United States of America. Historian Richard B. Morris in 1973 identified the following seven figures as the key Founding Fathers: John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and George Washington . Adams, Jefferson, and Franklin worked on the committee to draft the Declaration of Independence. Hamilton, Madison, and Jay were authors of the The Federalist Papers, advocating ratification of the Constitution. Washington commanded the revolutionary army. All served in important positions in the early government of the United States.
DOB based on First Continental Congress
DOD based on death of James Madison, last surviving member
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 873 reviews
February 28, 2021
Solid opener, but it dragged on a bit too long. I'll keep an eye on the work of this Thomas Jefferson fellow.
May 10, 2020
country bad please return to sender
October 12, 2014
What do I need to say? Read them, understand them, and give thanks.
Also let me recommend, treasure, protect, and pray we keep them, unbroken.
Please.
Also let me recommend, treasure, protect, and pray we keep them, unbroken.
Please.
April 22, 2025
Primarily written by Thomas Jefferson in 1776, the Declaration of Independence has some of the most influential and inspiring sentences of the English language. It declares the equality of all men and their unalienable rights--i.e., life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It also asserts the right that people can proclaim their independence based on natural law; outlines a liberal political philosophy justifying revolution; and specifies a list of grievances against the British Crown thereby attesting the American colonies right to secede from the British Empire.
The ineffective Articles of Confederation necessitated the drafting of the Constitution of the United States in 1787. Strongly influenced by the English Bill of Rights and enlightenment thinkers like Locke and Montesquieu, this document delineates the powers of the federal government. The first three articles establish the separation of powers--legislative, executive, and judicial. The remaining articles outline federalist concepts, including states' rights and responsibilities and their interactions with the federal government, amendment procedures, and ratification. It is the oldest continuing written constitution in the world.
The American State Papers are not perfect. Despite the Founding Fathers' ideals of liberty, many people remained unfree. Nonetheless, the "majestic generalities" and recognition of the need for constitutional change enabled activists to obtain their freedoms overtime--e.g., the 13th amendment abolishing slavery, the 19th amendment granting women the right to vote, or the 26th amendment lowering the voting age to 18. Despite ongoing imperfections in America, it is the ideals of these documents and Americans' pursuit to realise them that truly make America great.
Reading the Constitution is essential in America's current political climate. Unprecedented constitutional law is being made. For instance, the Supreme Court recently ruled that states could not disqualify Donald Trump from the presidential ballot by under Section 3 of the 14th amendment. Donald Trump is also frivolously arguing that presidents have unconditional immunity under Article II. This is highly unlikely. However, there is a likelihood of Donald Trump winning the next election, being found guilty of a felony and going to prison. Is he eligible to pardon himself or even continue to serve as president? We shall see.
Addendum:
Donald Trump is president again, and the Supreme Court has found that presidents have immunity while committing an official act. What this means, however, is unclear. As Justice Sotomayor elegantly stated in her dissent: "When he uses his official powers in any way, under the majority’s reasoning, he now will be insulated from criminal prosecution. Orders the Navy’s Seal Team 6 to assassinate a political rival? Immune. Organizes a military coup to hold onto power? Immune. Takes a bribe in exchange for a pardon? Immune. Immune, immune, immune." America is on the verge of a constitutional crisis, with a president who may be above the law.
The ineffective Articles of Confederation necessitated the drafting of the Constitution of the United States in 1787. Strongly influenced by the English Bill of Rights and enlightenment thinkers like Locke and Montesquieu, this document delineates the powers of the federal government. The first three articles establish the separation of powers--legislative, executive, and judicial. The remaining articles outline federalist concepts, including states' rights and responsibilities and their interactions with the federal government, amendment procedures, and ratification. It is the oldest continuing written constitution in the world.
The American State Papers are not perfect. Despite the Founding Fathers' ideals of liberty, many people remained unfree. Nonetheless, the "majestic generalities" and recognition of the need for constitutional change enabled activists to obtain their freedoms overtime--e.g., the 13th amendment abolishing slavery, the 19th amendment granting women the right to vote, or the 26th amendment lowering the voting age to 18. Despite ongoing imperfections in America, it is the ideals of these documents and Americans' pursuit to realise them that truly make America great.
Reading the Constitution is essential in America's current political climate. Unprecedented constitutional law is being made. For instance, the Supreme Court recently ruled that states could not disqualify Donald Trump from the presidential ballot by under Section 3 of the 14th amendment. Donald Trump is also frivolously arguing that presidents have unconditional immunity under Article II. This is highly unlikely. However, there is a likelihood of Donald Trump winning the next election, being found guilty of a felony and going to prison. Is he eligible to pardon himself or even continue to serve as president? We shall see.
Addendum:
Donald Trump is president again, and the Supreme Court has found that presidents have immunity while committing an official act. What this means, however, is unclear. As Justice Sotomayor elegantly stated in her dissent: "When he uses his official powers in any way, under the majority’s reasoning, he now will be insulated from criminal prosecution. Orders the Navy’s Seal Team 6 to assassinate a political rival? Immune. Organizes a military coup to hold onto power? Immune. Takes a bribe in exchange for a pardon? Immune. Immune, immune, immune." America is on the verge of a constitutional crisis, with a president who may be above the law.
July 6, 2022
The foundation of the America is based on morality and virtue. Each sentence has been carefully thought and each word has been carefully chosen. I am so glad to see that Cyrus the Great's bill of human right (which is the first bill of rights in the world) had inspired great men like Founding Fathers to write the Constitution of the United States.
"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."
The purpose of government is NOT to bestow rights; rather it is to PROTECT those rights already endowed upon human beings by God. I am urtterly speechless by this...
God may bless the bloods of those who fight for freedom and independence in the world. May God bless the hearts of all who have faith and persistence in the goodness.
Not 5 stars but 50 stars! ❤
"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."
The purpose of government is NOT to bestow rights; rather it is to PROTECT those rights already endowed upon human beings by God. I am urtterly speechless by this...
God may bless the bloods of those who fight for freedom and independence in the world. May God bless the hearts of all who have faith and persistence in the goodness.
Not 5 stars but 50 stars! ❤
Read
February 11, 2019Pretty good, but it should include women in the sequel.
October 28, 2024
A nice place to return with the election a week away.
The Declaration of Independence and Constitution of the United States together outline many of the essential principles of American democracy. Contemporary American politics are fundamentally testing at least four of these principles.
The first is fidelity to the Constitution. Throughout American history, government officials have broadly honored and followed the Constitution. Yet Donald Trump neither understands nor respects the country's founding document. Many in Trump’s Republican party have encouraged and supported Trump’s anti-constitutional behavior. And many Democrats, too, have cast aside long-held constitutional traditions in their frenetic effort to oppose Trump.
All of this will get worse if he wins the election.
The second essential principle of American democracy tested during the Trump era is respect for the rule of law. The law must be applied evenly to all people. Always. Since Trump’s ascendancy in 2015, however, one’s political affiliation has often mattered more than the underlying facts relating to one’s guilt or innocence. Trump has consistently called for prosecutions of his political opponents—including Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama and Joe Biden. But both sides of the aisle have criminalized American politics. Trump himself has been a victim of this.
The third essential principle of American democracy tested during this time is the commitment to rational government. American democracy has lasted for centuries not simply because of the words in the Constitution. It has succeeded because of a national ethos firmly rooted in rationality, as embodied by America’s founders. While there have certainly been exceptions--big ones included--reason and prudence have long shaped American public policy.
For some years now, however, American politics have descended into a whirlpool of lies, false narratives and abhorrent stupidities. This irrationality has enveloped not just the populous but elected officials across the political aisle.
Again, this will get worse if Trump wins.
Finally, perhaps the most important principle of American government challenged since Trump took office is the very notion that government officials are chosen by the people in free and fair elections. This premise of democracy has defined America from its outset. Yet Donald Trump and many of his Republican allies have attacked it, openly and unapologetically.
The next few weeks will be a white-knuckle affair under several plausible scenarios.
Numerous significant steps are needed to reverse these trends. Requiring all elected officials to read the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution is a good place to start.
The Declaration of Independence and Constitution of the United States together outline many of the essential principles of American democracy. Contemporary American politics are fundamentally testing at least four of these principles.
The first is fidelity to the Constitution. Throughout American history, government officials have broadly honored and followed the Constitution. Yet Donald Trump neither understands nor respects the country's founding document. Many in Trump’s Republican party have encouraged and supported Trump’s anti-constitutional behavior. And many Democrats, too, have cast aside long-held constitutional traditions in their frenetic effort to oppose Trump.
All of this will get worse if he wins the election.
The second essential principle of American democracy tested during the Trump era is respect for the rule of law. The law must be applied evenly to all people. Always. Since Trump’s ascendancy in 2015, however, one’s political affiliation has often mattered more than the underlying facts relating to one’s guilt or innocence. Trump has consistently called for prosecutions of his political opponents—including Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama and Joe Biden. But both sides of the aisle have criminalized American politics. Trump himself has been a victim of this.
The third essential principle of American democracy tested during this time is the commitment to rational government. American democracy has lasted for centuries not simply because of the words in the Constitution. It has succeeded because of a national ethos firmly rooted in rationality, as embodied by America’s founders. While there have certainly been exceptions--big ones included--reason and prudence have long shaped American public policy.
For some years now, however, American politics have descended into a whirlpool of lies, false narratives and abhorrent stupidities. This irrationality has enveloped not just the populous but elected officials across the political aisle.
Again, this will get worse if Trump wins.
Finally, perhaps the most important principle of American government challenged since Trump took office is the very notion that government officials are chosen by the people in free and fair elections. This premise of democracy has defined America from its outset. Yet Donald Trump and many of his Republican allies have attacked it, openly and unapologetically.
The next few weeks will be a white-knuckle affair under several plausible scenarios.
Numerous significant steps are needed to reverse these trends. Requiring all elected officials to read the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution is a good place to start.
September 28, 2008
The original pretty much sucks. Slavery, women and renters can't vote etc. Electoral college = WTF? The amendments rock though. Wonder if there will be any decent sequels.
November 5, 2024
I have read these documents many times, on my own and in class—as both student and teacher. What these documents mean, what they represent, is as simple as it was once revolutionary: the sovereignty of the American people.
I don’t suppose many of the people who read my reviews on here need to be reminded to vote today. Many of you are not Americans; I suspect that most of you who are have already voted by now. Nonetheless, I’ve somehow acquired a small following on this website, and I feel I should say something today.
When we vote, we do so not only as individuals, but as a community. What we vote for is not only a candidate we believe in (or have chosen to accept), not only the policies we desire or the future we hope for as individuals—we also vote, as a community, for democracy. By voting we became a democracy and by voting we remain one. Were we, together, to reject this power, then these documents would cease to have any meaning or purpose.
I don’t suppose many of the people who read my reviews on here need to be reminded to vote today. Many of you are not Americans; I suspect that most of you who are have already voted by now. Nonetheless, I’ve somehow acquired a small following on this website, and I feel I should say something today.
When we vote, we do so not only as individuals, but as a community. What we vote for is not only a candidate we believe in (or have chosen to accept), not only the policies we desire or the future we hope for as individuals—we also vote, as a community, for democracy. By voting we became a democracy and by voting we remain one. Were we, together, to reject this power, then these documents would cease to have any meaning or purpose.
December 22, 2019
How many Americans can say they've read the Constitution? My guess is probably not many. And those that have only did it for school and have since forgotten much of what they learned. Personally, I remember having to memorize the Bill of Rights for a class, but that's about it.
So I bought a copy of the Constitution for myself and began reading it. It's important now more than ever that we read and understand it.
So I bought a copy of the Constitution for myself and began reading it. It's important now more than ever that we read and understand it.
May 4, 2013
It is nearly impossible to review such an important historical work. In my opinion this is one of the most important documents in history.
May 1, 2008
It's a goddamn shame when our "leader" refers to this as "a goddamn piece of paper".
I handed out pocket sized Constitutions on Constitution Day last year. I am a nerd.
I handed out pocket sized Constitutions on Constitution Day last year. I am a nerd.
December 4, 2020
needs improvement
February 17, 2017
"A Must Read" and Re-Read Yearly.
February 7, 2017
What an alive and exciting little booklet—easily read in a couple of hours. It is not only educative (badly needed in these turbulent times), but it is deeply moving. I'm in awe or the ability of the founders to see so far ahead and produce organized rules that have lasted.
That said, I also see how constricted our human vision can be. For instance, in the Declaration's enumeration of all the King of England's crimes against the colonies, there is this amazingly blind statement, completely ignoring the fact that the colonies' population stole already populated lands*:
Unlike the crimes against Native Americans**, which have never been properly redressed, slaves and women eventually get their day in the amendments to the Constitution, known as the Bill of Rights.
Opening with a short, clear history written by the nonpartisan think-tank publisher, the Cato Institute***, these documents are not hard to understand and they pulse with life. Those two attributes give me hope that they will evolve in ways to protect us and our cherished democracy.
__________________
*
**1/6/17, for levity's sake--I'm currently reading Sherman Alexie's wonderful The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, and this quote seems applicable:
***12/27/68. I just read a chillingly informative article about neoliberalism in The Guardian that mentions the Cato Institute as a place that is funded by this movement for privilege for the few at the expense of the many. When I looked at Cato's site, I saw that it was a think tank interested in limited government, but I also believed it was, as stated, nonpartisan. Apparently not; it was founded by the Koch Brothers. But the documents are the documents. Whether you want to buy the booklet and give this place your $4.50 is a decision to think about. I got my booklet free as a handout at a BookExpo America many years ago.
That said, I also see how constricted our human vision can be. For instance, in the Declaration's enumeration of all the King of England's crimes against the colonies, there is this amazingly blind statement, completely ignoring the fact that the colonies' population stole already populated lands*:
HE [King] has excited domestic Insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the Inhabitants of our Frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages, whose known Rule of Warfare, is an undistinguished Destruction, of all Ages, Sexes and Conditions.
Unlike the crimes against Native Americans**, which have never been properly redressed, slaves and women eventually get their day in the amendments to the Constitution, known as the Bill of Rights.
Opening with a short, clear history written by the nonpartisan think-tank publisher, the Cato Institute***, these documents are not hard to understand and they pulse with life. Those two attributes give me hope that they will evolve in ways to protect us and our cherished democracy.
__________________
*
**1/6/17, for levity's sake--I'm currently reading Sherman Alexie's wonderful The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, and this quote seems applicable:
I always think it's funny when Indians celebrate Thanksgiving. I mean, sure, the Indians and Pilgrims were best friends during the first Thanksgiving, but a few years later, the Pilgrims were shooting Indians.
So I'm never quite sure why we eat turkey like everybody else.
"Hey, Dad," I said. "What do Indians have to be so thankful for?"
"We should give thanks that they didn't kill all of us."
We laughed like crazy. It was a good day. . .
***12/27/68. I just read a chillingly informative article about neoliberalism in The Guardian that mentions the Cato Institute as a place that is funded by this movement for privilege for the few at the expense of the many. When I looked at Cato's site, I saw that it was a think tank interested in limited government, but I also believed it was, as stated, nonpartisan. Apparently not; it was founded by the Koch Brothers. But the documents are the documents. Whether you want to buy the booklet and give this place your $4.50 is a decision to think about. I got my booklet free as a handout at a BookExpo America many years ago.
October 14, 2011
Everyone including me has read this repeatedly for school. So I knew this would be bad, but I didn't know how bad until I went through it underlining everything negative and circling everything positive. Why the Cato institute publishes this, and why it is handed out at libertarian events completely escapes me.
I will omit things too minor to note. Asterisks rank importance.
Lets skip the declaration since its meh. Its way better than the constitution though. I'll just note that the consent of the governed stuff is good, but that a bunch of their complaints are retarded (like, the "you wont let us cross the appalachians and steal native american land" complaint and the "fuck quebec" complaint).
Preamble: States the purpose of the constitution as establishing a "more perfect union", promoting the "general welfare" (vague and grants unlimited interpretation), and also "ordains" this constitution on the residents of the 13 states and their "posterity", which is not only bold but also very rude to the unborn masses.
Article 1:
***Sec 1: establishes Congress as the firm which has a monopoly on law.
***Sec 2: decrees that direct federal taxation (theft) is aight.
**Sec 3: decrees that the head of state can only be tried via mechanisms internal to the firm: Ie Senate has a monopoly on legal practice of impeachment, and severely legally constrains the limits of what the Senate may do to an impeached President.
Sec 6: Senator and Representative salaries are set by law. They are also exempt from arrest during attendance in session, with the exceptions of Treason, Felony, and Breach of Peace.
****Sec 8: Grants Congress the power to tax, lay tariffs and excises for the purposes of "national defense" and "general welfare" (Grants Congress the power to steal money to do whateverthefuck they want). Grants Congress the power to borrow money, regulate commerce within the nation and with other nations, print money and establish it's value (ironically, it also monopolizes the punishment of counterfeiting), create post offices and roads, "promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts" via maintaining intellectual property laws (or "the exclusive right to discoveries" as the document says), declare war, grant letters of marque, raise and support armies and navies, call forth the militia to SUPPRESS INSURRECTIONS and repel invasions, to arm and organize said militia, to maintain a total legal monopoly over the Capital district, to build forts, magazines, arsenals, dockyards, and "other needful buildings" (any building). Monopolizes the legal definitions of naturalization, bankruptcy, piracy, and felony on the high seas. Permits congress to make all laws "necessary and proper" for carrying out all of the above and all of the below.
***Sec 9: Allows Congress to suspend Habeas Corpus during REBELLION or invasion, allows them to tax (different tax this time),
Sec 10: prohibits any given state from doing any of the above (as if this monopoly wasn't already abundantly clear) and forbids any state from entering into an alliance or confederation.
Article 2:
***Sec 1: invests the executive power in the President, prohibits foreigners from becoming president.
***Sec 2: Establishes the president as commander in chief of the military and militia. Allows him to grant pardons, make treaties, and appoint ambassadors.
Article 3:
*****Sec 1: Establishes a monopoly on legal interpretation in the judiciary/"Supreme" Court.
***Sec 2: Confirms that this monopoly extends to all areas of law.
***Sec 3: defines treason as (among other things) "adhering" to America's enemies, or giving them aid/comfort.
*****Article 6: Declares "This Constitution... and all laws which shall be made in pursuance thereof" to be the supreme law of the land, and binds all judges in the country to uphold it (prohibits independent judges from existing).
Then the Bill of Rights is generally a lot better. No need to get into it.
Given all of the above it is apparent than an unemotional reading of the constitution reveals the following: It establishes that the government has a monopoly on legal interpretation, the creation of laws, the provision of security, the production of currency, and all the basic functions of civil society. Its vague wording furthermore allows the government to invade any area of life which the above document does not already take hostile possession of. This is an explicitly authoritarian document and should be spit on by any self respecting libertarian, or dignified human being.
"But whether the Constitution really be one thing, or another, this much is certain — that it has either authorized such a government as we have had, or has been powerless to prevent it. In either case, it is unfit to exist." -Lysander Spooner
I will omit things too minor to note. Asterisks rank importance.
Lets skip the declaration since its meh. Its way better than the constitution though. I'll just note that the consent of the governed stuff is good, but that a bunch of their complaints are retarded (like, the "you wont let us cross the appalachians and steal native american land" complaint and the "fuck quebec" complaint).
Preamble: States the purpose of the constitution as establishing a "more perfect union", promoting the "general welfare" (vague and grants unlimited interpretation), and also "ordains" this constitution on the residents of the 13 states and their "posterity", which is not only bold but also very rude to the unborn masses.
Article 1:
***Sec 1: establishes Congress as the firm which has a monopoly on law.
***Sec 2: decrees that direct federal taxation (theft) is aight.
**Sec 3: decrees that the head of state can only be tried via mechanisms internal to the firm: Ie Senate has a monopoly on legal practice of impeachment, and severely legally constrains the limits of what the Senate may do to an impeached President.
Sec 6: Senator and Representative salaries are set by law. They are also exempt from arrest during attendance in session, with the exceptions of Treason, Felony, and Breach of Peace.
****Sec 8: Grants Congress the power to tax, lay tariffs and excises for the purposes of "national defense" and "general welfare" (Grants Congress the power to steal money to do whateverthefuck they want). Grants Congress the power to borrow money, regulate commerce within the nation and with other nations, print money and establish it's value (ironically, it also monopolizes the punishment of counterfeiting), create post offices and roads, "promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts" via maintaining intellectual property laws (or "the exclusive right to discoveries" as the document says), declare war, grant letters of marque, raise and support armies and navies, call forth the militia to SUPPRESS INSURRECTIONS and repel invasions, to arm and organize said militia, to maintain a total legal monopoly over the Capital district, to build forts, magazines, arsenals, dockyards, and "other needful buildings" (any building). Monopolizes the legal definitions of naturalization, bankruptcy, piracy, and felony on the high seas. Permits congress to make all laws "necessary and proper" for carrying out all of the above and all of the below.
***Sec 9: Allows Congress to suspend Habeas Corpus during REBELLION or invasion, allows them to tax (different tax this time),
Sec 10: prohibits any given state from doing any of the above (as if this monopoly wasn't already abundantly clear) and forbids any state from entering into an alliance or confederation.
Article 2:
***Sec 1: invests the executive power in the President, prohibits foreigners from becoming president.
***Sec 2: Establishes the president as commander in chief of the military and militia. Allows him to grant pardons, make treaties, and appoint ambassadors.
Article 3:
*****Sec 1: Establishes a monopoly on legal interpretation in the judiciary/"Supreme" Court.
***Sec 2: Confirms that this monopoly extends to all areas of law.
***Sec 3: defines treason as (among other things) "adhering" to America's enemies, or giving them aid/comfort.
*****Article 6: Declares "This Constitution... and all laws which shall be made in pursuance thereof" to be the supreme law of the land, and binds all judges in the country to uphold it (prohibits independent judges from existing).
Then the Bill of Rights is generally a lot better. No need to get into it.
Given all of the above it is apparent than an unemotional reading of the constitution reveals the following: It establishes that the government has a monopoly on legal interpretation, the creation of laws, the provision of security, the production of currency, and all the basic functions of civil society. Its vague wording furthermore allows the government to invade any area of life which the above document does not already take hostile possession of. This is an explicitly authoritarian document and should be spit on by any self respecting libertarian, or dignified human being.
"But whether the Constitution really be one thing, or another, this much is certain — that it has either authorized such a government as we have had, or has been powerless to prevent it. In either case, it is unfit to exist." -Lysander Spooner
July 12, 2011
These documents were part of the required reading of my American history and civics classes. While being historic they are still documents that play a major part in my everyday life.
January 26, 2022
I like the part when garfiel kick odie of the table. Silly cat! 😹
July 27, 2019
Patriotic but a bit racist.
November 28, 2021
Definitely great texts to study.
January 27, 2021
Something everyone should read as a child in school to study, and then again as an adult. Especially with the political climate the way it is.
August 12, 2025
lol this is for a book i read for work that shalll not be named yet and it slayed 5 stars
1/30 -CAH#3 4 stars!
1/29-/130SATG 3.5 stars!
2/13 PGF - 4 stars!!
2/20 ttylsub
2/25 agbdsub
3/6 C-KA FIVE STARS SLAYED SO HARD
3/14 slomw 5 !
4/8-4-9 hw - 5!
WYHO - 4/30 3.5
5/6-5/8 HN - 4 stars!!
5/1-5/2 LOTR -4.5
6/11-6/11 NOK - uhhh 3.75???
6/11-6/14 CRCH 4 stars tbh
7/24-7/25 HOL mmm 4 stars i thinkkkk
8/14-8/14 NSG -4 stars
8/15-8/16 SW #4
8/20/8/21 -GO, football, 3.75
9/18/9/19 FBOFH 4.5 stars
10/30-10/31 TPS
11/22-23 quite actuallt splendid , 5 stars , TSLOJV
8/11-8/12 -oc / ks - 4
1/30 -CAH#3 4 stars!
1/29-/130SATG 3.5 stars!
2/13 PGF - 4 stars!!
2/20 ttylsub
2/25 agbdsub
3/6 C-KA FIVE STARS SLAYED SO HARD
3/14 slomw 5 !
4/8-4-9 hw - 5!
WYHO - 4/30 3.5
5/6-5/8 HN - 4 stars!!
5/1-5/2 LOTR -4.5
6/11-6/11 NOK - uhhh 3.75???
6/11-6/14 CRCH 4 stars tbh
7/24-7/25 HOL mmm 4 stars i thinkkkk
8/14-8/14 NSG -4 stars
8/15-8/16 SW #4
8/20/8/21 -GO, football, 3.75
9/18/9/19 FBOFH 4.5 stars
10/30-10/31 TPS
11/22-23 quite actuallt splendid , 5 stars , TSLOJV
8/11-8/12 -oc / ks - 4
Read
January 25, 2018We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
In regards to the Constitution alone, here's a few articles and amendments I feel are interesting or relevant to our times:
Article. I.
Section. 8. The Congress shall have the Power to lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States...
...To promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts, by securing for limited Times to Authors and Inventors the exclusive Right to their respective Writings and Discoveries...
...To raise and support Armies, but no Appropriation of Money to that Use shall be for a longer Term than two Years...
Section. 9. The Privilege of the Writ of Habeas Corpus shall not be suspended, unless when in Cases of Rebellion or Invasion the public Safety may require it.
Article. II.
Section. 4. The President, Vice President and all civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors.
Article. IV.
Section. 2. The Citizens of each State shall be entitled to all Privileges and Immunities of Citizens in the several States.
Section. 4. The United States shall guarantee to every State in this Union a Republican Form of Government, and shall protect each of them against Invasion; and on Application of the Legislature, or of the Executive (when the Legislature cannot be convened) against domestic Violence.
Article. VI.
The Senators and Representatives before mentioned, and the Members of the several State Legislatures, and all executive and judicial Officers, both of the United States and of the several States, shall be bound by Oath or Affirmation, to support this Constitution; but no religious Test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any Office or public Trust under the United States.
Amendment I.
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
Amendment II.
A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.
Amendment IV.
The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.
Amendment V.
No person shall be held to answer for capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the Militia, when in actual service in time of War or public danger...
...nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.
Amendment VIII
Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.
Amendment IX.
The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.
Amendment X.
The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.
Amendment XVI.
The Congress shall have the power to lay and collect taxes on incomes, from whatever source derived, without apportionment among the several States, and without regard to any census or enumeration.
In regards to the Constitution alone, here's a few articles and amendments I feel are interesting or relevant to our times:
Article. I.
Section. 8. The Congress shall have the Power to lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States...
...To promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts, by securing for limited Times to Authors and Inventors the exclusive Right to their respective Writings and Discoveries...
...To raise and support Armies, but no Appropriation of Money to that Use shall be for a longer Term than two Years...
Section. 9. The Privilege of the Writ of Habeas Corpus shall not be suspended, unless when in Cases of Rebellion or Invasion the public Safety may require it.
Article. II.
Section. 4. The President, Vice President and all civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors.
Article. IV.
Section. 2. The Citizens of each State shall be entitled to all Privileges and Immunities of Citizens in the several States.
Section. 4. The United States shall guarantee to every State in this Union a Republican Form of Government, and shall protect each of them against Invasion; and on Application of the Legislature, or of the Executive (when the Legislature cannot be convened) against domestic Violence.
Article. VI.
The Senators and Representatives before mentioned, and the Members of the several State Legislatures, and all executive and judicial Officers, both of the United States and of the several States, shall be bound by Oath or Affirmation, to support this Constitution; but no religious Test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any Office or public Trust under the United States.
Amendment I.
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
Amendment II.
A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.
Amendment IV.
The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.
Amendment V.
No person shall be held to answer for capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the Militia, when in actual service in time of War or public danger...
...nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.
Amendment VIII
Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.
Amendment IX.
The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.
Amendment X.
The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.
Amendment XVI.
The Congress shall have the power to lay and collect taxes on incomes, from whatever source derived, without apportionment among the several States, and without regard to any census or enumeration.
February 6, 2017
Can't face the future if you don't know the past.
November 12, 2021
lack of women
October 21, 2022
I hate America
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 8, 2019
Two very important documents in American history that I was introduced to as a child. I hope that every American has read them at least once. They are the foundation our Country was built on and the ones that we must do all we can to protect today.
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March 9, 2022it cracks me up that we still call them the founding fathers what in the dystopian novel
May 18, 2022
i appreciate the concept… don’t know about the execution
May 25, 2024
What a lie.
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