American Constitutional History: A Brief Introduction

How is it that the U.S. Constitution has managed to endure and adapt through more than two centuries of sweeping changes in American history? American Constitutional History presents a concise introduction to the numerous constitutional developments that have taken place over the past 225 years. Focusing primarily on constitutional changes related to economic developments, individual rights, and executive power, chapters cover both formal revisions made through constitutional amendments, and informal yet equally critical changes resulting from Supreme Court decisions, executive actions by U.S. Presidents, and laws implemented by Congress. Readers will gain a thorough grasp of America s most treasured document as it has evolved through five distinct stages of U.S. history the New Republic, the Slave Republic, the Free–Market Republic, the Social Welfare Republic, and the Contemporary Republic. The text is enhanced by brief chapter overviews of historic timeframes along with discussions of additional constitutional amendments. Reflecting the most up–to–date Supreme Court decisions at the close of the June 2015 term, American Constitutional History offers illuminating insights into the origins and evolution of the longest lasting written constitution in world history.

Jack Fruchtman is Professor of Political Science and Director of the Program in Law and American Civilization at Towson University, Maryland. His most recent books include The Political Philosophy of Thomas Paine (2009) and The Supreme Court: Rulings on American Government and Society (2nd Ed., 2014).