The Original Intent of the Constitution - Myths of American History

Explore the complexities of the U.S. Constitution's origins and evolution in this 32-minute video lecture presented by Mark Stoler. Delve into the Founding Fathers' original intentions, challenging common misconceptions about their vision for American democracy. Examine the historical context of the Constitution's creation, including the Articles of Confederation and Shays' Rebellion. Understand key concepts such as checks and balances, the separation of powers, and the Bill of Rights. Discover how the Constitution combines elements of monarchy, aristocracy, and democracy, and learn about crucial developments like the Great Compromise. Gain insights into the ongoing process of constitutional interpretation and how the amendment process has allowed this document to endure as the framework of American government.

The Intention of the Founders of the Constitution
Who Were the Founders of the Constitution?
The Ongoing Process of Historical Interpretation and Reinterpretation
The Process of Creating Governments Begins
Balance Government Rejected for Legislative Power
Articles of Confederation Replaced Second Continental Congress
Successes of the Articles of Confederation
Problems with the Articles of Confederation
What was Shays' Rebellion?
An Elite Definition of Liberty
Constitutional Convention of 1787
What It Means to Create an Empire of Liberty
How the Constitution Separates Sovereignty from Rule
What are Checks and Balances?
Combining Elements of Monarchy, Aristocracy, and Democracy
The Bill of Rights
What was the Great Compromise?
The First Ten Amendments to the Constitution