1. The Constitution
Chapter 2

2. Constitution Definition
A nation’s basic law. It creates political institutions, assigns or divides powers in government, and often provides certain guarantees to citizens.

3. The Origins of the Constitution
The English Heritage:
Enlightenment Era- The Power of Ideas
John Locke’s influence
Natural rights
Consent of the governed
Limited Government

4. The Articles of Confederation
The first document to govern the United States
No executive branch
Congress had few powers
States had too much power

5. The Government That Failed
Shays’ Rebellion
A series of attacks on courthouses by a small band of farmers led by Captain Daniel Shay
_ showed that the articles needed more central powers.

6. Constitutional Convention
New Jersey Plan- unicameral Congress w/ each state equally represented
Virginia Plan- bicameral Congress (Federalist) state representation based on population or $$
Connecticut Compromise- bicameral congress

7. The Madisonian Model
Figure 2.3

8. Anti- Federalist Federalist
Small farmers, shopkeepers & laborers
Wanted strong state gov.
Weak national gov.
Shorter terms
Ruled by common man
Protection of civil liberties
Large landowners, wealthy merchants, professionals
Weaker state gov.
Stronger national gov.
Longer terms
Gov. by the elite
Less concern for individuals liberties

9. Ratifying the Constitution
Federalist Papers
A collection of 85 articles written by Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, and James Madison defending the Constitution.
Bill of Rights
The first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution, drafted in response to some of the Anti-Federalist concerns about the lack of basic liberties.

10. Interpreting the Constitutional
The Constitution as a living document
Judicial Interpretation
Strict
Interpretation
Loose
interpretation
Follow constitution word for word congress is only given the powers stated
Follow a broad interpretation. Not to be taken word for word

11. A look at our Bill of Rights
students will work in groups of 4
Each group will be given an amendment and will create a poster
1) with the definition of the amendment
2) a picture depicting its meaning
Groups will present in class on Monday