Guadalupe Rios was a proud mother of nine children, who dedicated her career to Catholic Charities and was the personification of the American Dream. She passed away peacefully on June 27 of complications related to her previous two strokes and a seizure. She literally died of a broken heart following the passing of her eldest […]
Anne Louise White, Aunt of Constituting America Supporter, Nancy Almasi Constituting America’s dear friend, Nancy Almasi, has honored her beloved aunt, Anne Slater White, by making a contribution to Constituting America in her aunt’s memory. Nancy told us, “she often shared her love of American History with me.” Anne Louise White, known fondly as Nancy, […]
We are sad to announce the passing of our dear friend, and first accountant, Larry Howlett. We met Larry in 2009, and Larry was instrumental in filing our initial Constituting America paperwork in 2010 with the IRS, as well as helping us draft our bylaws and articles of incorporation, file our first 990, and submit […]
David W. Thompson Grandson of Ace Borger, Founder of Borger, Texas David was one of Constituting America’s earliest and most enthusiastic and generous supporters. In addition to his own personal financial support of our Constitution education programs, David organized our first event for us in Dallas, in April of 2010, our founding year. He assisted […]
French aristocrat and government official, Alexis de Tocqueville visited the United States for a nine-month period during 1831-1832. He traveled with his companion, Gustave Beaumont, to study penal reform.
The United States during the 1830s and 1840s was experiencing a democratic revolution with the rise of universal male suffrage for white men in most states. Moreover, De Tocqueville visited toward the end of the presidency of Andrew Jackson. Jackson symbolized the rise of the “common man” and democracy, though the democratic currents were caused by more than just who occupied the White House.
The democratic ethos was spreading throughout America in countless ways. The republican institutions guaranteed greater political participation than anywhere in the world at the time. They engaged in self-governance primarily in small towns and communities as farmers and artisans. The Second Great Awakening was characterized by intense religious ferment and led to the rise of new Christian denominations, the democratization of religion, and strong streaks of religious individualism and emotional religiosity. Americans were enjoying the prosperity of a growing market economy, equal opportunity, and social mobility. They were also geographically mobile, moving further westward in search of land, new opportunities, and often, a new start.
Democracy in America, Conclusion 1
A political scientist, historian, and politician, Alexis de Tocqueville (1805-1859) traveled the United States in 1831. He and fellow traveler Gustave de Beaumont (Goose-tav de Bow-mon) spent nine months traversing the expanse of the 1830s United States. They wanted to learn more concerning the young nation. Their observations were published in two volumes titled Democracy in America. The first volume was published in 1835 and the second in 1840.
Even though De Tocqueville identified America as a “republican government,” he remained impressed by the nation’s democratic features; that is, America had more equal, social conditions than its European counterparts. Although more than a few modern-day Americans might disagree, De Tocqueville remarked that all had a “similar condition” and held onto common “customs and opinions to which that social condition has given birth.”
A Few Reflections On The Reasons For The Commercial Greatness Of The United States Influenced by their Commerce
“Hope deferred makes the heart sick” states the Psalmist, “but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life”. This sound wisdom states the human need for opportunity, advancement and productivity. All humanity yearns forward, organic in nature. Immobility is a death sentence to the human race. Alexis de Tocqueville, in Democracy in America, described American commerce related to its organic nature as one that is always moving forward. Commerce in America, as a factor of American exceptionalism, demonstrated unique qualities birthed out of the very nature of those called Americans. He found that geographic advantages, intellectual superiority and moral people were the three great winds blowing on the exceptional nature of Americans and commerce.
Undeniably, the American continent has geographic advantages unseen in the world. “There is no people in the world that can offer to commerce deeper, vaster and safer ports than the Americans.” Risking danger, American ships “neglected precautions” and pushed their sailors further without creature comforts at the prospect of commercial gain. This was one dynamic De Tocqueville recognized as an “American trait” in the colonies before and after Independence. Living in a temperate zone, American colonies doubled in population in nearly twenty-two years. Population growth mirrors hope. The American Dream was realized and taken advantage of by common people. For the American, navigable rivers, a climate for agricultural diversity, and fertile soil allowed for expansion. The limitless opportunities afforded by nature were embodied in the hearts and minds of the American. For the one willing to learn, to risk, and to work hard, the North American continent had endless possibilities.
There is an intriguing passage in this essay about the difference between the American understanding of republican government and the European approach. De Tocqueville describes contrasting assumptions about the nature of rights and political accountability and affirms the connection between republican government and permanent and transcendental norms. Americans of his time defined a republic as based on majority control. This is the classic “republican principle” of the vote and rule by the majority. Of course, the delicate question is “majority of whom”? This is where republics over the millennia have differed, often profoundly.
That majority control is typically not exercised directly, as might occur in a townhall meeting, but through designated bodies of representatives.
“What one understands by republic in the United States is the slow and tranquil action of society on itself. It is a regular state really founded on the enlightened will of the people. It is a conciliating government, in which resolutions ripen for a long time, are discussed slowly and executed only when mature.”
James Madison, among many other supporters of the Constitution, had offered a similar description of American republican government during the ratification debates in the late 1780s.
American Union Will Last? What Dangers Threaten It?
Near the end of Volume One of Democracy in America, De Tocqueville discusses the possible dangers that might, in the future, lead to the dissolution of the American federal Union. If the amount of time De Tocqueville takes to discuss this topic is an indication of its importance, he must have taken this issue very seriously, as it is one of the longest chapters on the book. In fact, it had been an issue of utmost concern to President George Washington in his “Farewell Address” (1796), and of a young Abraham Lincoln in his 1838 address titled “The Perpetuation of Our Political Institutions,” delivered shortly after the first volume of Democracy in America was published.
De Tocqueville begins by observing that, in the long run, the survival of the Union depends heavily on how long the delicate federal balance of powers and responsibilities between nation and states can be maintained. If that balance tips too far toward the national government, the states might become irrelevant; if it tips too far toward favoring state sovereignty over the national authority, the states might disassociate and thus break up the Union. This problem seems unavoidable because of the very nature of the federal Union, which sought to combine thirteen mostly sovereign and independent states into one nation under a national government.
In 1838, a young Abraham Lincoln addressed a young men’s lyceum debating society in Springfield, Illinois, on the topic of “The Perpetuation of Our Political Institutions.” Lincoln stated that mob rule and demagoguery were great threats to American self-government. He asserted that the way to preserve American political institutions was to restore reason and reverence for the laws as a “political religion” over the shifting and dangerous passions of human nature.
Publishing his masterpiece, Democracy in America, at the same time Lincoln spoke, De Tocqueville offered his own reflections on “the influence exerted by the enlightenment and the habits of the Americans on the maintenance of their political institutions.” In both cases—education and political habits—were formed primarily through experience rather than theory. The American people, he observed, were eminently a very practical people.
De Tocqueville thought that American education did not produce great literature or scientific inventions. Instead, Americans adapted the technology, “marvelously to the needs of the country.” They also sought education to learn “the doctrines and the proofs of [their] religion.” Finally, they gained familiarity with “the principal features of the constitution that governs” their country.
For De Tocqueville, habits and mores, determined especially by religion, are the primary contributors to the Americans’ successful maintenance of their democratic republic. Against champions of liberty who opposed Christianity and reactionaries who opposed liberty and defended religion, De Tocqueville described and favored an American republicanism that had combined “the spirit of religion and the spirit of freedom.” The dominance of Christian morality—a salutary tyranny of the majority—promotes domestic tranquility and furnishes limits on political power. De Tocqueville makes an arresting claim: “Religion, which, among Americans, never mixes directly the government of society, should therefore be considered as the first of their political institutions; for if it does not give them the taste for freedom, it singularly facilitates their use of it.”
While noting that religion “never mixes” with government, De Tocqueville nevertheless notes that it holds widespread influence in society, hinting at the larger force of his argument. De Tocqueville’s claim is twofold: first, Christianity exercises an enormous degree of political influence in America, despite formal separation of church and state, through its hold over the mores. Second, the degree of influence Christianity wields actually depends on disestablishment, assigning religion to its proper sphere of dominion over hearts and minds.
America’s Founding Fathers believed there was an inseparable link between faith and freedom. They were convinced that if one flourishes the other will as well and that liberty particularly would be at risk if religion and virtue diminished. The evidence of these shared convictions is unmistakable, as revealed in the quotations below. In addition, decades after it factored into the Framers’ crafting of the U.S. Constitution, De Tocqueville emphasized the foundational significance of religion in preserving American freedom. But why is this so?
In a free society, self-government is a prerequisite for social order. If citizens exercise self-restraint in relation to others and take responsibility for their well-being and that of their dependents, then freedom and limited government can be maintained. In the absence of self-government, freedom will diminish as various forms of coercive government power necessarily fill the void. Self-government requires the exercise of moral virtue, often referred to as public virtue. And moral virtue is generally and historically the fruit of sincere faith. This is why the Founders saw the great utility of religious belief.
Even the shortest sections of De Tocqueville’s writings often contained keen insights into the requirements of liberty. When describing the laws and mores required to maintain a democratic republic, De Tocqueville summarized what he had described in previous chapters. His summary gave us a remarkable insight into how American ideals and institutions had been working since the founding.
He understood that the very structure of our government encouraged and enabled a free people to keep their liberties. One key element of this structure was the interaction between the national government and local government. The national government had the power to protect the American people. Local governments gave Americans the ability to enact legislation meaningful to their everyday lives. But towns and the democratic institutions closest to the people had a special role to play.
Towns tended to enact and enforce laws that limited the evils of unchecked majorities. As these people and institutions did their work, every American learned the value of freedom. Courts could not stop majorities from enacting their desires forever. But the emotions of majorities could be slowed and directed. De Tocqueville saw that what the founders had intended did work in practice.
The United States exists today as a federal democratic republic, which was part of the Founders’ plan to create the unique and effective system of government that we have lived under for 237 years. Our democratic republic has two elements to it. First, in our form of democracy, we let the citizens rule under majority rule in certain elections, as well as adhering to the concept of popular sovereignty: government that is based on the supremacy of the people. Second, in our republic, we give power to our representatives, who govern for their constituents. We have elements of both a democracy and a republic, balanced within our system of government, which was the Founders’ intent.
In the first part of Chapter 9, De Tocqueville examines the main reasons and causes of the democratic republic existing within the United States in 1831-32. Throughout his book, De Tocqueville states that his primary goal was to explain these reasons and causes. He believed that the main causes for them could be narrowed down to three main causes.
1. The situation that God (Providence) placed Americans
2. Our laws
3. Our habits and norms
In Democracy in America, De Tocqueville warns of the inherent danger to a democracy from “the omnipotence of the majority” and the tyranny that is naturally imposed on the minority. De Tocqueville offers some consolation to lovers of American democracy that certain factors in the United States work to hold in check some of that power.
Among these impediments, at least in the 1830s, to potential abuses were lawyers who collectively constituted an independent, non-partisan judiciary system and the authority vested in American juries. De Tocqueville believes that lawyers are naturally elitists and aristocrats and often think contrary to the general run of mankind, thus creating an obstacle the masses must overcome to impose their will on the minority. He also states that the American jury system, in which the people have the final say regarding which laws are just and if they have been equitably applied, is a significant check on the absolute power of the majority whose representatives create the laws.
In De Tocqueville’s masterpiece, Democracy in America, De Tocqueville discusses at length what he terms the “omnipotence of the majority” found in democracies and how that all-powerful force is one of the greatest threats to liberty and freedom, the twin pillars of a democratic form of government.
It seems a contradiction that the greatest blessing of a democracy, the rule of the majority instead of the one or the few, should also hold in it the most likely place wherein lies the seeds for the possible destruction of democracy. But, as De Tocqueville points out, that is very much the case.
As De Tocqueville asks, “What is a majority, in its collective capacity, if not an individual with opinions, and usually with interests, contrary to those of another individual, called the minority? Now, if you admit that a man vested with omnipotence can abuse it against his adversaries, why not admit the same concerning a majority?”
For De Tocqueville, unchecked majority rule within the states presented problems. The national government, he observed, was more independent of public opinion and largely limited itself to foreign affairs, leaving state governments to dominate American society.
De Tocqueville argued that state constitutions dangerously inflated the power of the majority. State legislators served short terms and were elected directly by the people, and so reflected “the daily passions of their constituents.” Bicameral legislatures failed to check the majority because both houses represented the same social class and both were popularly elected. The executive and judicial branches could not serve as effective checks. State governors, who were often selected by the legislatures for short terms of office, lacked the necessary independence. In several states, even judges were elected, and legislators controlled their salaries. Making matters worse was a growing tendency on the part of voters to limit lawmakers’ discretion with binding instructions.
De Tocqueville called America the “country of democracy par excellence.” To understand why, one must recollect the real advantages American society derives from democratic government. Among those numerous advantages Americans gain from living in a democracy, De Tocqueville argued, are the idea of individual rights, the respect for the law, and the vigorous political activity that reigns in all parts of the body politic.
1. The Idea of Rights
There has never been a great and prosperous people without some notion of individual rights. One of the key advantages of democratic society is respect for the idea of rights, especially the right of property. Americans seem innately to understand that the rights that they want to claim for themselves, and that they want to be respected by others, must belong to everyone in equal measure. The result is a form of the golden rule; so that one’s own rights are not violated, one does not attack those of others.
How to Re-ignite Patriotism in America
Has patriotism become unfashionable? Last year, a Wall Street Journal poll reported that just 38% of Americans view patriotism as very important. That’s down from the 70% who said the same in 1998. The question is, why?
De Tocqueville, the famous French author who loved America, offers some insights. In his essay, “On Public Spirit in the United States,” he describes two kinds of patriotism, warns of the moments when patriotism fades, and offers a solution for patriotic renewal.
The first kind of patriotism is instinctive. People love their home, and that “love intermingles with the taste for old customs, with respect for ancestors and memory of the past.” This patriotism, more monarchical in character, rests on old orders and traditions. It ebbs and flows, reigniting and then subsiding in times of war and peace.
Governing the external affairs of a state involves a particular set of skills. Foreign policy requires the combined use of patience, prudence, secrecy, and long-term strategic thinking. It entails grave risks and difficult trade-offs. Decision-makers, who should be free of the passions that grip the people, must make cold-blooded calculations in the national interest. Such is the view of De Tocqueville. In contrast to the “good sense” of democracy guiding domestic affairs, De Tocqueville observes that foreign affairs demand these aristocratic attributes. Certain qualities of democracy stop at the water’s edge.
As De Tocqueville explains, American elites of the Early Republic possessed the leadership qualities necessary to ensure that democracy flourished at home while America advanced its interests abroad. Although seemingly a contradictory stance, De Tocqueville’s advocacy for their role in directing foreign affairs was not incompatible with his republican predilection. Rather, as he contends, aristocrats and commoners alike had a shared interest in the prosperity and security of the United States.
These sub-chapters on America’s “Government by Democracy” address a crucial theme of the work: constitutional republic versus democracy. De Tocqueville befriends the new phenomenon of mass, egalitarian democracy, especially its success in America (so far). Yet as a genuine friend, he notes both weaknesses and strengths. His tough-love message: beware too much of a good thing. Too much democracy, and its ideal of equality, undermines America’s other great principles. These include: liberty and self-government; the rule of law; moral principles mostly stemming from Christianity yet sustained by religious liberty; and, striving for happiness (per the Declaration) in ways that ennoble life, not cheapen it. The tough-love messages in these sub-chapters address: public morality, particularly corrupt officials; can our democratic spirit sustain hard struggles (e.g. extended wars); can the people heed the wiser policy judgments of “statesmen;” and, can we exercise the self-control and far-sighted thinking necessary to survive and prosper in a dangerous world.
Though well-known for his political and social commentary, De Tocqueville devoted considerable attention throughout his life to issues of political economy. He was well-versed in the economic writings of thinkers like Jacques Turgot, Adam Smith, and John Stuart Mill. De Tocqueville also explored some of the pressing economic topics of his time in texts such as his Memoir on Pauperism (1835).
Educated Europeans of De Tocqueville’s era were well-aware of the burgeoning economic power of the American republic that he visited for 10 months between 1831 and 1832. In Democracy in America, however, De Tocqueville’s thoughts on economic topics revolved around questions concerning the effects of democracy upon government expenditures.
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Today, many citizens worry that bureaucrats are unaccountable and unresponsive to the interests of majorities, while other citizens worry that the bureaucracies are too politicized and too open to manipulation. As we can see from these selections of De Tocqueville, this is a long-standing concern for democratic governance. In these chapters, De Tocqueville suggests that democratic systems can be as arbitrary and unstable as despotic states because democratic majorities, just as a despot, can press the administrators to follow their desires. As a result, he argues that democratic majorities do not worry about the power of administrators because they believe that those administrators work on their behalf. If interests of a democratic majority change, they can simply change the actions of the administrators or the administrators themselves….
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“When election comes only at long intervals, the state runs a risk of being overturned in each election.”
-De Tocqueville
In a span of a few pages in the first volume of Democracy in America, Alexis De Tocqueville discusses the implications of the frequency of American elections and the significance of the un-exalted position of civil servants in the United States. In each case, De Tocqueville’s arguments hinge on the importance of time horizons in understanding the behavior of public officials in the nation.
De Tocqueville visited the United States in 1831, along with his friend and collaborator, Gustave de Beaumont, officially to do research on penal conditions in the United States. This did result in a report that was presented to the French government, but of more significance was De Tocqueville’s book, Democracy in America. This was an analysis of more than government and politics, but also social conditions and a civic society that De Tocqueville believed gave rise to a form of governance that was unknown in Europe. De Tocqueville based his conclusions on observations carried out over several months. De Tocqueville visited seventeen of the twenty-four states then making up the union. He also briefly traveled through a bit of Canada. He only spent a few weeks in Washington, DC, so the bulk of what he learned about the country came from witnessing happenings outside the capitol. His observations also took place in a year in which no presidential or congressional elections were held. Much of what he learned came from witnessing politics and society at the local level.
At the beginning of the chapter, De Tocqueville gives us a hint about what is to come. He wrote, “I know here I am walking on ground that is afire. Each word of this chapter must offend on some points the different parties that divide my country. I shall not speak less than all my thought” (187).
What a remarkable introduction. He tells his readers that he knows his arguments are controversial, so much so that the topics he is about to discuss are on fire! While his opinions will offend almost everyone, he promises honesty in his analysis. These eye-opening sentences place the reader on high alert. We must proceed with caution.
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“Of all the countries in the world, America has taken greatest advantage of association and has applied this powerful means of action to the greatest variety of objectives” –De Tocqueville
“Our Founding Fathers saw freedom of the press as a foundational element of being a free and sovereign people. They had seen Redcoats arrest writers and destroy printing presses used to publish papers that were critical of Parliament and the Crown. So they made sure that our First Amendment specifically prohibited the government from abridging the freedom of the press and of speech.
De Tocqueville, a Frenchmen, came to study and analyze democracy in America and what made it work. His seminal work was the book – Democracy in America which he published in 1835. Not surprisingly, it includes an extensive discussion of freedom of the press,” today’s essayist, George Landrith
“If nothing else, the same political party could ultimately be on opposite sides of the national banking issue, demonstrating De Tocqueville’s point.” Today’s essayst, Horace Cooper.
“With a few caveats, the system studied by De Tocqueville has weathered well most of the storms of the last two and a half centuries. The franchise has been expanded to the point that every law-abiding American citizen is eligible to participate in the electoral process, serve on juries, and be part of national, regional, and local governance. This evolution is a testament to the dynamic nature of our governance system.” — Peter Roff
“To undertake the careful discrimination between which government has authority to do what, to discern the limits of both state and federal government in their respective spheres, requires ‘a people long habituated to directing its affairs by itself, and in which political science has descended to the last ranks of society.’” — Joseph M. Knippenberg
“In order to construct modern, centralized states on the model advocated by Machiavelli, European monarchs weakened the aristocratic class, which had ruled the feudal states, characterized by weak monarchs and powerful landlords. Weak aristocracies meant increasingly egalitarian civil societies beneath the modern states, whether their regimes were monarchic or republican. For De Tocqueville, ‘democracy’ is not itself a regime, and equality is neither a natural or legal right; democracy is a social condition, one that must be understood clearly if it does not descend into despotism. As the most thoroughly democratized society in the world in the 1830s (this, despite slavery), America fascinated the young French aristocrat, living in the aftermath of the debacle of the French republicanism in the 1790s and of French monarchy in the 1780s and again in the Napoleonic Wars.”
-Will Morrisey
The French writer De Tocqueville traveled in and wrote about the culture and politics of the new American Republic between 1835 and 1840. His work has become a classic of political thought and is considered one of the most insightful analyses of the early Republic and its institutions. Democracy in America is De Tocqueville’s most important work, particularly for our consideration of the Constitution.
The question in subchapter 21 is a crucial one, even in current discourse on the Constitution. De Tocqueville asks what makes the American Constitution different from other constitutions. In his day, the American version was certainly not the only constitution in effect (even less so today). In addition, several elements set the American compact apart from other similar documents, such as Poland and France. De Tocqueville focuses on one aspect—a very important one. As he explains it, the most unique innovation of the American Constitution is that, unlike the previous Articles of Confederation, whose provisions only allowed the national government to operate on state governments as a whole, the new compact’s provisions operated directly on citizens of each state. Before, the state governments could, and sometimes did, simply refuse to follow laws enacted by Congress based on its powers. As De Tocqueville writes, “In America, the Union has, not states, but plain citizens, for those governed.” The new Constitution bypasses the states in the exercise of its enumerated powers.
In this section of Democracy in America, De Tocqueville claims that the national constitution is superior to those found in the states. In making this case, he points to a broader purpose of his project.
As he stated early in the work, De Tocqueville thinks that a general movement toward democratic forms of government are inevitable, part of a Providential movement in history. Yet he believes humans possess the ability to make their democracies better or worse. Here, he notes two problems democracies tend to face. Both he claims the national constitution combats better than its state counterparts.
First, De Tocqueville writes that one danger for democracies is the possibility of “[t]he complete enslavement of the legislative power to the will of the electoral body.” One might think this point is a good thing, a feature, not a bug. Should not the lawmakers in a popular government follow the will of the people, who by definition are the sovereign in such regimes?
De Tocqueville does not deny the ultimate sovereignty of the people. But he wants the people to exercise their rule in the most thoughtful, moderate, and just way possible. The people do so best through representatives who themselves possess some ability to lead and thus to mold popular opinion rather than merely follow it. This balance, wherein the representatives truly represent but do so with some room to persuade, depends in large part on the terms of office lawmakers hold.
“A federal government stands in greater need of the support of judicial institutions than any other, because it is naturally weak and exposed to formidable opposition.” – Alexis de Tocqueville
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“…De Tocqueville remains impressed by the “mode of election” for American Presidents, recognizing that the Electoral College “express[es] the real will of the people.” He notes the difficulty in getting a majority to support any candidate “at the first stroke,” especially given the size and nature of the country. Electing a special body (the Electoral College) to make this decision struck De Tocqueville as an efficient process for reaching agreement on a candidate. It would also better reflect the will of the people than legislative selection.”
“Just now Washington contains the most important men of the whole Union. We no longer seek instructions from them on subjects of which we are ignorant; instead, we reexamine, in conversation with them, everything which we already know, more or less.” – Alexis De Tocqueville
“Just now Washington contains the most important men of the whole Union. We no longer seek instructions from them on subjects of which we are ignorant; instead, we reexamine, in conversation with them, everything which we already know, more or less.” – Alexis De Tocqueville
“…. what is new in the history of societies is to see a great people, warned by its legislators that the wheels of government are stopping, turn its regard upon itself without haste and without fear, sound the depth of the ill, contain itself for two entire years in order to discover the remedy at leisure, and
when the remedy is pointed out, submit voluntarily to it without its costing humanity one tear or drop of blood.” – Alexis De Tocqueville
“[Political jurisdiction is] to withdraw power from someone who makes a bad use of it and to prevent this same citizen from being vested with it in the future.” – Alexis De Tocqueville
Alexis De Tocqueville entitles Volume One, Part One, Chapter 6 of Democracy in America “On Judicial Power in the United States and Its Action on Political Society.”
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“What I admire most in America are not the administrative effects of decentralization, but its political effects” (Alexis De Tocqueville, Democracy in America).
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The core of America’s federal system of government is viable state governments. America is called “the United States” to institutionalize the importance of distributed and diverse state governance as a balance to centralized power.
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De Tocqueville’s study of townships in America is justly famous. He allows Americans to have pride in where they come from and in their history. He champions the idea of local civic participation and shows how it is a core element of American prosperity.
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Anyone who has worked as a reporter for newspapers — from small town weeklies to big city dailies — can tell you that few things are more boring than the civic affairs of a tiny New England township.
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Alexis de Tocqueville’s seminal work, Democracy in America, offers a profound examination of the American political system, with particular emphasis on the principle of the sovereignty of the people.
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Alexis de Tocqueville long has had the deserved reputation of an insightful early observer of the United States and its people. His discussion of the social condition of Americans and its influence on their personal and political character is a case in point.
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Alexis de Tocqueville was a French traveler who produced one of the most discerning observations about American democracy ever written.
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In 1831, Alexis De Tocqueville came to America, sent by France to investigate the United States of America’s prison system. Alexis does that and much more in his incredible, sprawling book that provides his impressions of democracy in North America.
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Mr. James Ingram was Constituting America Founder, actress Janine Turner’s, beloved 5th grade teacher, who instilled in Janine a love of our founding fathers, through the 5th grade’s production of 1776. Mr. Ingram was honored as Constituting America’s Constitutional Champion in 2011 and was a beloved and active member of our Education Advisory board. Mr. […]
In loving memory of our dear friend, Anne Maureen Quinn. Maureen entered this life on September 25, 1956 and passed away December 14, 2022. Maureen was a bright light who shone in all of our lives. We were blessed to have Maureen’s beautiful voice narrate many of our 90 Day Studies. She also submitted our […]
Parthiv Varanasi is an 18-year-old who is graduating from Plano East Senior High School in Plano, TX. He plans to attend the University of Texas at Austin to pursue a double major in Mathematics and Economics and wants to work in international economic policy eventually. Outside of school, Parthiv has been playing tennis for 11 […]
Essays are published each Monday and Thursday, beginning Monday, September 2, 2024. The essays in our study reference the following edition of Democracy In America: University of Chicago Press – 1st edition translated by Harvey Mansfield and Delba Winthrop. Leave a comment on an essay on our website, and you will automatically be entered into a weekly […]
Essay #1 – INTRODUCTION Introduction: First Principles of the American Founding by Adam M. Carrington, Associate Professor of Politics, Hillsdale College; Author, Justice Stephen Field’s Cooperative Constitution of Liberty: Liberty in Full. ~*~ Essay #2 – Principle of government exists to secure liberty of the people rather than government existing to benefit itself. “We ought […]
Ken has spent more than two decades working at the highest levels of national policy and communications. He serves as the policy translator for the firm’s communications strategies to ensure that complex issues in areas such as healthcare, transportation, technology, homeland security, and many others, are understandable and actionable for clients’ intended audience(s). Prior to […]
In 2000, Keith realized his vision for a multidimensional communications strategy firm that not only focused on the public relations needs for clients but also designed growth strategies for companies and organizations ranging from small start-up businesses and nonprofits to multinational corporations. Keith believes that every organization has a story to tell. When the story […]
From a very early age, music was an integral part of Wil Gravatt’s life. Wil’s mother worked for the legendary Capitol Records; and he was exposed to the sounds of the Beatles, Janis Joplin, Buck Owens, and Waylon Jennings to name a few. His first love was the drums; teaching himself to play and forming […]
Peter Roff is a longtime Washington, D.C. writer and commentator whose work has appeared in U.S. News & World Report, Newsweek, and other publications. He appears frequently on radio and television and holds fellowships with several public policy organizations. He can be reached by email at RoffColumns@GMAIL.com. Follow him on Twitter @PeterRoff. At one time […]
Nashville songwriter Steve Dean has co-written six number one hits, including the most played song on country radio in 2007, “Watching You” for Rodney Atkins, the Grammy nominated “It Takes A little Rain” for The Oak Ridge Boys, “Southern Star” for Alabama, “Round About Way” for George Strait, “Walk On” for Reba McEntire and “Heart’s […]
Mark Rodgers is the Principal of The Clapham Group, a company that seeks to influence culture upstream of the political arena. Mark served as the third-ranking Republican leadership staffer in the U.S. Senate for six years overseeing strategic planning and strategic communications. He also served as a high profile chief of staff to Senator Rick […]
Gail MacKinnon joined the Motion Picture Association (MPA) in November 2017 and is the current Senior Executive Vice President for Global Policy & Government Affairs. A skilled senior executive with experience in public policy advocacy, issues management, and strategy development, Gail oversees the MPA’s government relations portfolio and policy agenda, as well as its international […]
Born and raised in Dallas Texas, Moses Uvere was the first born to Patience and Gabriel Uvere, immigrants who came to America to seek “the American Dream.” Being brought up by parents from a different country, Moses witnessed firsthand what “the American Dream” was all about and the struggle to achieve a better life. Living […]
Shane Tews is a nonresident senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, where she focuses on cybersecurity issues, including privacy and data protection, next-generation networking (5G), the Internet of Things, international internet governance, digital economic policy, information and communications technology, artificial intelligence (AI) and the metaverse, cryptocurrency and non-fungible tokens, and emerging technologies. She is also […]
My name is Giovanni Adu-Gyamfi. I am 19 years old, and I am a freshman at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ), where I am majoring in public health. I spent most of my childhood in Old Bridge, New Jersey, but I currently live in Parlin, New Jersey. From a young age, I was fascinated […]
Dawson Rhoades, 12, is a 6th Grader at Grapevine Faith Christian School and resides in Texas with his parents and his older brother. Dawson’s hobbies include playing tennis, pickleball, golf, water skiing, acting, and performing on the piano. In his free time Dawson can be found adding music to his “favorites” playlist, which includes songs […]
Louis Akkermans Louis Akkermans is 21 years old and beginning his MA in Public Interest Media and Communication. Interested in filmmaking, he hopes to find a path that would allow him to write for the screen, though video production as a whole is a passion of his and one he could inhabit in any facet. […]
Maya Robinson is a senior at Gann Academy in Waltham, Massachusetts. She loves exploring interesting mathematical concepts and is developing a budding interest in coding. She has attended the Ross Mathematics Program and PROMYS over the past two summers, and she is hoping to continue deepening her understanding and appreciation of number theory this summer. […]
My name is Noe Flores. I am a 6th grade honors student and live in Fort Worth, Texas. I enjoy learning and reading and was the runner up for my school Spelling Bee in 3rd grade. I am currently in band and play percussion. My favorite subject in school is science because it’s interesting and […]
Shaynlin is a 17-year-old senior from Drexel, Missouri. She is the founding chairman and current chairman of the Young Americans for Freedom Chapter at Drexel High School. Shayn is also the president of NHS, FBLA, FCCLA, and Student Council at Drexel High. Throughout high school, she was involved in football, basketball, basketball cheerleading, track and […]
As educators, we understand that not all children think, process, or learn alike. Therefore, at Grapevine Faith we have the unique opportunity to offer STEAM to our students. We are passionate about teaching students that scientific principles and artistic expression work together with such incredible harmony to reach all types of learners. The genius, Leonardo […]
Carson is a 15-year-old homeschooled freshman from Austin, Texas. He is a nationally competitive rower, racing in regattas across the country. As well as being a successful rower, he is also an assistant coach teaching introductory courses for teens and adults. When he is not studying, Carson enjoys reading, writing, and documentary filmmaking. Last year, […]
My name is Ella Dumas. I am in the 6th grade at Grapevine Faith Christian School in Grapevine, Texas. I love music and play the piano for our school Chapel Band. I love trying new sports and playing all types of games. This past year at Faith, I was on the basketball team and swim […]
Ava Watts is 12 years old and in sixth grade at Grapevine Faith Christian School in Grapevine, Texas. Making the PSA for the “We The Future” contest came naturally because she loves performing in front of a camera as well as on stage as a competitive dancer. Ava has been dancing since the age of […]
My name is Emily Tan – I am a 7th grader at South Forsyth Middle School in Cumming, GA. Social Studies and History has always interested me, and this STEM project was a new experience, as this was the first complete website I have created. Soon after, I started creating more websites on different topics. […]
Nicholas Heiniger was born and raised in Marietta, Georgia. Currently, he is attending the University of Georgia where he is majoring in international affairs. From a young age, he has shown interest in world languages and cultures by taking Spanish and Latin language classes in high school and studying Russian through the National Scholarship Language […]
Adam Zheng Adam Zheng is a 16-year old senior at Williamsville North High School, currently living in Western New York. His love for filmmaking began during the onset of the pandemic, and he has since spent hundreds of hours mastering its art. He enjoys creating films to educate, to raise awareness, and to document […]
Jake R. Cairns Jake is a 17-year-old from Evans, Georgia who attends Evans High School as a Junior. He has played lacrosse for four years and is currently the varsity goalie for the Evans Knights! Jake’s hobbies are doing anything outdoors and music. He enjoys fishing, camping, hiking, boating, hunting and exploring all over the […]
Benjamin Moak, age 7, is from Parachute, Colorado. He is an avid video game player, four wheeler rider and loves shark week! His big sister Halley was our inaugural poem winner in 2010, so apparently his talent runs in the family! Click here to read Benjamin’s winning poem! Our Interview With Benjamin Was this the […]
Rachel Xu is a sophomore in the International Baccalaureate program at Eastside High School. She is involved with the Student Government Association as the acting vice president representing 10th grade, participates in varsity Girls’ Weightlifting team, having won in district and regionals, serves on the PALS Leadership Council, and is actively involved in Mu Alpha […]
Source: Ashbrook Center – Teaching American History When great and extraordinary powers are vested in any man, or body of men, which in their exercise, may operate to the oppression of the people, it is of high importance that powerful checks should be formed to prevent the abuse of it. Perhaps no restraints are more […]
Constituting America thanks: Janice Gauntt Barbara Edstrom Cathy Gillespie For your generous donations in Mr. Agee’s name. Mr. Agee was Constituting America Founder Janine Turner’s uncle and board member Janice Gauntt’s brother. “Stan was known for his robust, positive spirit. He was an avid reader, intellectually curious, and a dedicated hard worker. He was […]
March 23, 1979, 1941 – July 24, 2021 Constituting America thanks Bill Kohnke and Nancy Quinn for their generous donation in memory of SFC Alex J. Hytowitz. Alex served his country for over 20 years as member of the U.S. Army Reserve and a member of the Georgia Army National Guard. He was deployed in […]
September 16, 1941 – April 27, 2021 Constituting America thanks Geyer Dybesland for her generous donation in her mother’s memory. Mrs. Wise attended Constituting America’s Hamilton/Jefferson debate with her grandchildren and bought many copies of Our Constitution Rocks to distribute to her friends’ grandchildren! She was an active member of the Lady Washington Chapter of […]
December 19, 1938 – February 4, 2021 Constituting America thanks our board member Mrs. Janice Gauntt and friend Jan Wallace for their generous donation in Mrs. Polk’s memory. Mrs. Polk was an enthusiastic and generous supporter of Constituting America and a respected Texas real estate broker. Click Here to view Mrs. Polk’s Obituary and learn more […]
The Magna Carta limited the king’s absolute claim to power. It provided a certain level of religious freedom or independence from the crown, protected barons from illegal imprisonment, and limited the taxes that the crown could impose upon the barons, among other things. It did not champion the rights of every Englishman. It only focused on the rights of the barons. But, it was an important start to the concept of limiting the absolute power of governments or kings that claimed God had given them the absolute right to rule.
Source: Consource. Click Here to view the original document. To the CITIZENS of the STATE of NEW-YORK. I flatter myself that my last address established this position, that to reduce the Thirteen States into one goverment, would prove the destruction of your liberties. But lest this truth should be doubted by some, I will now […]
Source: Teaching American History MR. PRINTER, In order that people may be sufficiently impressed, with the necessity of establishing a BILL OF RIGHTS in the forming of a new constitution, it is very proper to take a short view of some of those liberties, which it is of the greatest importance for Freemen to retain […]
Source: Consource. Click Here To View Original Document. To the CITIZENS of the STATE of NEW-YORK. In the investigation of the constitution, under your consideration, great care should be taken, that you do not form your opinions respecting it, from unimportant provisions, or fallacious appearances. On a careful examination, you will find, that many of […]
To the CITIZENS of the State of NEW-YORK. In my last number I endeavored to prove that the language of the article relative to the establishment of the executive of this new government was vague and inexplicit, that the great powers of the President, connected with his duration in office would lead to oppression and […]
Mr. PRINTER, This is certainly very important crisis to the people of America; experience seems to have convinced everyone, that the articles of confederation, under which Congress have hitherto attempted to regulate the affairs of the United States, are insufficient for the purposes intended; that we are a ruined people unless some alteration can be […]
SOURCE: HERBERT J. STORING, ED., THE COMPLETE ANTI-FEDERALIST, VOL. 2, 136-143. To the Freemen of Pennsylvania Friends, Countrymen and Fellow Citizens, Permit one of yourselves to put you in mind of certain liberties and privileges secured to you by the constitution of this commonwealth, and to beg your serious attention to his uninterested opinion upon the […]
According to the logic of the argument, then, the “consent” of the governed cannot mean simply the assent of the governed. Consent can only mean assent to a government that really does secure the rights human beings have by nature, thanks to their Creator, before they form the government. Once they no longer consent to their government because it no longer serves the “end” or purpose a government ought to have, not only do we have the right to alter or abolish it, we also have the right, even the obligation, to frame a new government, one that does secure the rights the old government failed to secure.
Dr. Barbara Bowie-Whitman is an economist and a retired Foreign Service Officer. She was educated at the College of William and Mary and Southern Methodist University and earned her doctorate in economics from the George Washington University. Dr Bowie-Whitman was a Fulbright Scholar to Guatemala following the completion of her first master’s degree. She served […]
The importance of the Declaration of Independence can hardly be overstated. It established for the first time in world history a new nation based on the First Principles of the rule of law, unalienable rights, limited government, the Social Compact, equality, and the right to alter or abolish oppressive government.
Contrary to the beliefs of some, the American Revolution was not fought for lower taxes or to protect slavery. In fact, the tea tax which provoked the Boston Tea Party actually lowered the price of tea, and many of the Founding Fathers were opposed to slavery.
Religious texts aside, the Declaration of Independence may be the most important document in human history. It totally upended the prevailing orthodoxy about government and has led to momentous changes across time and the world. Certainly we have fallen short, over and over again, of its ideals. But without the First Principles of the Declaration of Independence, we would live in the total darkness of oppression as mankind had for a millennia before.
May I share with you why, in spite of all the challenges our nation faces, I am hopeful, even optimistic for its future? I’m optimistic because of students like Courtney, a 17-year-old in Texas, who used her talents as a singer and lyricist to write and produce an original music video to teach Constitutional principles […]
Constituting America is pleased to award Jacob Mott with a “Best Essay On Film Award”! Jacob L. Mott is an 18 year old from Chester, New York, who attends Chester Academy as a senior. He’s interned for NY State Senator James Skoufis, Defense Attorney Benjamin Ostrer, and the Orange County (NY) Sheriff’s Office. He also […]
“Best Drama” In Constituting America’s “We The Future” Short Film Category My name is Yashica Nabar, 16, and I’m in 11th grade attending the Law Academy at Creekview High School. I still have memories of when I was seven years old and would run around my house, creating small films to show my family and […]
Best Cinematic Ensemble, High School Short Film Category This is the second time this trio has created and won a division of Constituting America! Wyatt Hensley is 16 and a sophomore from Joplin MO. He is active in the FFA, student council, t.v. productions, as well as DECA and FBLA. He also is an Eagle […]
Hello! My name is Lindsey Larkin. I am a life-long homeschooler and graduate of the Classical Conversations Challenge program (May 2021). I have a great love of history and the American Constitution and I hope to continue sharing the importance of the American founding with others. I enjoy public speaking and have emceed at both […]
Gerald Huesken is a Social Studies teacher, focused on World History and Government & Economics, at Elizabethtown Area High School in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania. A graduate of Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania, Mr Huesken has been teaching at Etown for the better part of a decade. At the high school, he serves not only as a teacher, […]
Samir is currently an MBA student at Emory University in Atlanta. He’s an Army veteran with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan as a cavalry officer; he still serves in the Army Reserves. He has a strong interest in entrepreneurship and real estate. He graduated from West Point with a degree in Economics and Arabic language. Click […]
My name is Melanie and I’m in the 8th grade. I enjoy creative STEM projects, coding and watching movies. I am the student council Vice-President at my school. In 2018 and 2019, I won grants from the City of Las Vegas Youth Neighborhood Association Partnership Program (YNAPP) which rewards grants to youth who want to make […]
David Edelman has been a Social Studies teacher and Peer Instructional Coach in NYC Public Schools for over a decade. David provides instructional coaching, mentoring and professional learning to colleagues, in addition to teaching Government & Economics classes. His classroom serves as a learning lab and demonstration classroom to foster inter and intra school collaboration. […]
Carson Winkie is the son of Ken and Leslie Winkie, and the youngest of five children. Carson, a graduate of Bridgeport High School, served as the Student Body president throughout his senior year. He is currently serving as the governor of West Virginia Boys State and as a senator to the American Legion Boys Nation. He was appointed as the secretary […]
Lawson is a retired Air Force pilot (26 years, served in Viet Nam), retired airline pilot (flew domestic and international routes), retired farmer, and retired Track/Cross Country coach. He and his wife have 3 children—one daughter with 3 grandchildren, two sons (both served in the Army, one still in the Army Reserve with deployments to […]
Aubrey Jackman was born and raised in Tooele, Utah. Growing up, she loved being the middle of seven children in her family. After High School, Aubrey served an 18-month volunteer mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in the Seattle, Washington area. Aubrey enjoys spending her free time playing sports, such as […]
Magda Smith is a sophomore at Cornell University. She is interested in creating positive change through policy and promoting nuance, empathy, and open-mindedness in political discussions. In her free time, she loves to read and go on walks. Magda’s essays, songs, and poems have won several national and international awards including a Merit Award from […]
Emmalisa Horlacher, 23, Best College Song Winner, grew up in Utah but spent recent years living in Virginia where she got to tour the Museum of National History displaying the Constitution as well as visit multiple Civil War sites. She is currently attending BYU and is in the process of applying for the Media Arts […]
Gianna Voce is a 15-year-old homeschool student from Northern Virginia. She has been interested in STEM from an early age, teaching herself Python before starting a Girls Who Code club for homeschooled students. She is currently exploring an interest in programming, cybersecurity, and website design. She plans to graduate early and hopes to pursue a […]
Courtney is a very active 17-year-old junior at Midway High School in Waco, Texas. She is a member of the National Honor Society, founder and president of her school’s Trivia Club, and serves as an officer in the Spanish Club. Courtney’s Business Professionals of America Start-up Enterprise team has advanced to nationals and placed in […]
Lily Cring is a 17-year-old senior at Western High School in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. She is President of the Theatre and Drama Club, President of her Chorus, and a National Speech & Debate competitor. She has a passion for contributing to her community, and in her free time is an intern for a non-profit that organizes […]
Lily Cring is 16 years old and a Junior at Western High School in Ft. Lauderdale. She is on the Executive Board for her theatre and drama department as well as a National Speech & Debate competitor. She has a passion for contributing to her community and In her free time, is an intern for […]
Joaddan Villard is a junior at Laurel High School. She originally began editing in 4th grade with the oh so famous “Movie Maker.” Now 17, she enjoys editing in her free time. Never passing up an opportunity to try something new, many things have helped her reach where she is today. Joaddan has participated in […]
Margaret Alvine is a 19-year-old Freshman at John Paul the Great Catholic University in San Diego, majoring in Communications Media with an emphasis in Graphic Design. A proud alum of the National Christian Forensics and Communications Association, Margaret enjoys public speaking and performing. Last year, her speech Historical Amnesia, on the importance of learning from […]
Margaret Alvine is an 18-year-old homeschooled high school Senior. She has been homeschooled all her life, along with her six younger siblings. She currently lives in the Mojave Desert in Southern California. Her interest in the Constitution grew through her sophomore AP US Government class, which she really enjoyed. She also enjoys reading the speeches […]
My name is Simran and I am an 8th grade student at Lakeside Middle. I enjoy reading, running, baking and playing clarinet not necessarily in that order. Some of my accomplishments are receiving STEM award in Vex Robotics Competition in 5th grade, making to County Honor Band in the 6th grade and the District Honor […]
Hello, my name is Kristine Le, and I am a 5th grader from California! Right now, I am 10 years old, but for too long because it is almost my birthday. I really like reading fiction novels and drawing art in my free time. I consider myself a bookworm because I love reading books. In the summer, […]
Hello, my name is Haven I am 10 years old in the 4th grade, and I live in Oklahoma . I am young equestrian, I ride Saddleseat with my horse named Lily. I am also learning Hunt and when I get older I will learn Hunter jumper, ( if my mom will think about it […]
Advika is a 4th Grader in Texas. She loves to draw, swim, sing and ride her bike. Advika likes to tinker around in the kitchen and makes curious snacks by mixing strange ingredients we wouldn’t normally use together. She likes trying different cuisines and make an inter- continental experimental fusion which are tried out on us. […]
Mary Crosby, Best Middle School Song Winner from Washington State Mary Crosby was born in Mount Vernon, Washington in 2007. She is the 5th of six Crosby children and is homeschooled. She has always enjoyed playing music and started violin at the age of six. At seven, Mary added piano and has since taught herself […]
Elise Esparza, Winner, Best Poem Elise Esparza is a 10 year old fifth grader from Reagan Elementary in Cedar Park, Texas. She loves to write, draw, dance, swim, and ride her bike. Elise’s love for writing was passed down from her late grandmother, Nam Kỳ Cô Nương, who was a prolific Vietnamese poet. Though Elise […]
Elhaam Atiq, 10, is a proud Texan who lives in Richmond, TX. She is the second child to her parents and has 2 sisters. Her winning artwork depicts the diversity we see in America today and how this is a strength that adds to our country’s greatness. Elhaam is a member of her school’s National Elementary […]
Our beloved Auction Coordinator Mollie McCreary has passed away, or transitioned, as she liked to say. Mollie worked for Constituting America from 2014 to just a few weeks before she passed. Mollie was a dear friend to us all at Constituting America, and to our wonderful donors who make our Constitution Education programs possible. Mollie […]
Horace Cooper is a senior fellow with the National Center for Public Policy Research, co-chairman of the Project 21 National Advisory Board and a legal commentator. Horace averages over 400 talk radio appearances per year representing the National Center and Project 21, in addition to regular television appearances and interviews by the print media. He […]
The Monroe Doctrine remains one of the most influential foreign policy statements in United States history. The principles it espoused were largely consistent with the foreign affairs doctrine of non-interventionism in European affairs that were followed by the first U.S. presidents. Even by the twenty-first century, at times when U.S. geopolitical strategies were drastically different from those of the early nineteenth century, some foreign policy makers still invoked the Monroe Doctrine when prioritizing the spread of democracy and the well-being of the Western Hemisphere over other parts of the world. One of the key reasons for its longevity and success was because it established a foreign policy rooted in a combination of realism and idealism.
A new country needs rules they say To govern and protect the people So our founders back in 1787 Created the rules that affect us today The Constitution explains how our government works Each part with a specific role Three branches to check and balance each other, with Legislative, Judicial, Executive Our Constitution […]
Ellen Francis is a sophomore in the Templeton Honors College at Eastern University, where she is pursuing a degree in Classics with minors in History and Philosophy. Ellen is originally from Tennessee, but is enjoying life in suburban Philadelphia. She enjoys reading, swing dancing, discussing theology with her friends, and drinking sweet tea. After graduation, […]
Mr. President and fellow citizens of New York: – The facts with which I shall deal this evening are mainly old and familiar; nor is there anything new in the general use I shall make of them. If there shall be any novelty, it will be in the mode of presenting the facts, and the […]
Wyatt Hensley is a 15 year old boy from Joplin, Missouri, who won Best Middle Song in the We The Future contest of 2019. He is a 9th Grader at Joplin High School in Joplin, Missouri. He is involved Student Council, in his Church, theater, and in Boy Scouts. He earned his Eagle Scout in […]
Dr. Robert Brescia currently serves as a Board Director (Past Chairman) at Basin PBS television, the American Red Cross of the Permian Basin (Past Chairman), the Southwest Heritage Credit Union, and the Salvation Army of Odessa. His experience includes top leadership roles in education, corporate business, non-profit, and defense sectors. He is a sought-after speaker […]
Nathan Copeland is a 14-year-old from San Antonio, Texas. He attends STEM Academy at Legacy of Educational Excellence (LEE) High School, where he enjoys entering STEM-related competitions, leading to him going to State Science Fair, placing 2nd overall in SA SMART City Challenge, and winning CivTech SA. He is also interested in the technological sector, […]
Tova Love Kaplan, 16, currently serves as the National Youth Director for Constituting America and is a three-time winner of the nonprofit’s “We the Future” contest. Her work with Constituting America has lead to incredible experiences at the Department of Education, White House, the United States Capitol, and Fortune 500 companies. Tova is heavily involved […]
Thank you to Mr. and Mrs. William Kohnke for your very generous contribution in loving memory of Bob and Norma Freuer to sponsor our Best High School Song Winner. Click here to read Mr. and Mrs. Kohnke’s remembrance of Bob and Norma Freuer.
Constituting America thanks Mrs. Cindy Brinker Simmons for her generous contribution in honor of the memory of Mr. John Herklotz. Mr. Herklotz was a generous supporter of Constituting America. He not only helped fund our Constitution Education Programs, but also gave Constituting America many opportunities to promote our programs to his wide network through featuring […]
March 3, 1937 – January 20, 2020 Constituting America thanks our board member Mrs. Janice Gauntt for her generous contribution in Mr. Hubbard’s memory. Mr. Hubbard was one of the earliest supporters of Constituting America, making our 2010 Road Trip Across America possible with a generous gift. Mr. Hubbard’s granddaughter is our Best Artwork Judge, […]
Constituting America thanks the following family and friends of Mr. Ervin Monroe Dulaney for their generous contributions in his memory: Suzanne and Noel Schnitz Janice Gauntt Melissa Guthrie Col. and Mrs. Ambrose Szalwinski Mr. and Mrs. Richard “Pete” Burgess, Business Aviation Consultants Ervin Monroe Dulaney 1926 – 2019 Click Here to view Mr. Dulaney’s Obituary.
Constituting America thanks Janice Gauntt for her generous contribution in honor of Ms. Barbara Awbrey Hardage, to sponsor our Best Song Winner. Click here for Barbara’s obituary.
Constituting America’s Conrad Ainslie Bauman Elementary School Artwork Award is named after Conrad Ainslie Bauman, age 19 months, who was born on February 22, 2014 and passed away on Wednesday, September 23, 2015 in the loving arms of his parents, Paul and Victoria Bauman after a fervent fight with an extremely rare form of leukemia. […]
Thank you to Julie Bicking for your generous gift in honor of your father, Mr. Kenneth Gene Festerman From Julie, “Kenneth Gene Festerman died April 3, 2000. He was 69. My father was my rock and inspiration. He served in the Field Artillery during the Korean War. Malaria became his ticket home. He was proud […]
Thank you to Dorothy Quimby for your generous gift in honor of Mr. James Quimby, your beloved husband. Click here for James Quimby’s obituary.
Marilyn Brink was one of Constituting America’s first staff. She checked our P.O. Box and made deposits for us from 2010 to early 2019. Marilyn very generously donated most of her Constituting America duties, charging a very minimal fee. We will never forget Marilyn’s sense of humor and strong work ethic and are grateful for […]
Elyas Masrour is a 17-year-old from Long Island, New York. He attends Ward Melville High School where he participates in various clubs like FIRST Robotics, Environmental Club, DECA Business Competition, and the Muslim Students’ Association. Elyas is a creator at heart. Whether it’s designing a robot, organizing an event, or making a short film, he’s […]
Dakare C. Chatman is 16 years old and is a native of Charleston, South Carolina. Dakare got his start in theatre. Some of his many roles include Ollie in Yes Virginia, Tiny Tim in A Christmas Carol, Prince Chufa Chulalongkorn in The King and I, Ralphie in A Christmas Story, and Seaweed J. […]
My name is Chibuzor Ernest Onyeahialam and I am a born citizen of the United States with parents that are originally from Nigeria. I go to school at the University of Houston and I am studying computer information systems. I have plans of gaining a career in the computer industry. I have an extreme love […]
My name is Daniela Staton. I am a 6th grade honors student and I live in Delray Beach, Florida. I am passionate about singing, songwriting, piano, and playing volleyball and tennis. As libero on my volleyball team, we won first place at the 2020 South Florida Season Opener. At school, my favorite subject […]
ALEXANDRA GUSINSKI CV Alexandra Gusinski, a 12-year-old, residing in Greenwich, Connecticut – is a first-generation American born in Los Angeles, on December 25, 2007. She is of Israeli-Russian descent and is the granddaughter of Russian-Israeli media tycoon, Vladimir Gusinsky. As a nature and marine life enthusiast, at age ten she received her Junior PADI Open […]
My name is Larissa Nicolas and I am currently attending Charles R. Drew University of Science and Medicine. My ultimate educational goal is to attend medical school and also obtain my masters in Public Health. I want to become a physician and work in underserved communities to advocate for patients that may not have the […]
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Eboni Jenerette, (age 27) born in El Paso, now resides in Conroe Texas. Eboni grew up in Spring Texas, and after attending Sam Houston State University, returned to her home district, Spring ISD, desiring to sow back into what she believed invested so much into her. She was named 2019 District Teacher of the Year, […]
Reed Cooksey is nine years old and was born in Oregon. He has lived in Albuquerque, New Mexico for two years. He is already an uncle to five kids! He likes to snow ski, hike, camp, play with circuit boards with his brother in law, make movies on the computer, and play with Legos. He […]
Remie is a 7 year old 2nd Grader at Copperwood Elementary School in Glendale,Arizona. He is a very inquisitive, friendly young boy who loves to learn new things, but most of all, he absolutely loves to talk to anyone and everyone. He also loves to read books, draw and sings constantly. He’s a […]
Hello, my name is Isabel Crews. I am thirteen years old, but I am about to turn fourteen. Last year, I was the winner of Constituting America’s essay contest in the Middle School age division. I am currently pursuing my passions of acting, singing, reading, writing, and running. Recently, my eight year old brother and […]
My name is Isabel Crews. I have written many essays for numerous contests including Constituting America. One essay is called “What Makes America Great” for Veterans of Foreign Wars, and I received second place. Two other essays were for Daughters of the American Revolution and a leadership essay for MSHSAA. Not only have I entered […]
Angela Zhong is a senior at Cypress Woods high school and one of twelve World Schools Ambassadors for the 2019 USA Debate Development Team. She is also the Debate Captain at her school and regularly places in the Top 10 at State and National tournaments in Lincoln-Douglas debate. Her understanding of philosophy through debating about […]
Dorothy McCormick is a high school junior from Delaware. She began learning piano at age four and now plays acoustic and electric guitar as well as ukulele along with taking vocal lessons. Despite all this musical training, she originally wanted to make her mark on the world through Medicine or Biochemistry. However, after discovering what […]
“A house divided cannot stand.” That famous declaration of Abraham Lincoln’s looms large today. It seems like every day we receive further evidence of just how divided we are. Americans increasingly can’t agree on what our nation is, who it includes, how it should be governed, or what common values we honor and respect. In […]
Click Here to make your gift now and join the list! Why 39? 39 is the number of delegates who signed the U.S. Constitution at the Constitutional Convention! Your generous gifts fund our Constitution Education Programs: The George Washington – We Are All Americans – School Speaking Program; “We The Future” Contest; our yearly 90 […]
Vanesa Carrillo is a senior at Bel Air High School in El Paso, TX. She is also a part-time Community College student at El Paso Community College where she has earned over 30 college credit hours. Vanesa is the President of her Spanish Honor Society chapter and President/Co-Founder of her school’s first all-girls business empowerment […]
Hi, my name is Kennedy Owens. I am in 7th grade and I attend Sergeant Smith Middle School in Tampa, Florida. In my spare time, I really like editing videos, drawing original characters, reading webtoons, and writing stories. What convinced me to make the “Constitution Coloring” business plan was so I could provide a resource […]
Mallory Doyle, 13, is an 8th Grader at Holy Trinity Catholic Academy in Shelton, CT. She is a member of the Junior National Honor Society and has participated in Student Council, Drama Club, Peer Tutoring and Math League. With a strong foundation in academics and faith, she volunteers and actively participates in community service activities. […]
My name is Gabriella Tommasi, and I am 11 years old. I have had a passion for music since I can remember! I love playing electric guitar most of all, but also play piano, drums and just this year, I have begun to play the trombone in the Eubanks Intermediate School band. I do more […]
Tova Love Kaplan, 15, is a freshman at Whitney M. Young Magnet High School, one of Chicago’s most rigorous schools. She currently serves as the National Youth Director for Constituting America and is a two-time winner of the nonprofit’s “We the Future” contest. Her work with Constituting America has lead to incredible experiences at the […]
I am homeschooled and I live in Sanford, Florida. I love to sing and write songs, Other things that I enjoy are drawing, swimming, filming, and dancing. I play the ukulele and piano. I love animals and have two dogs and a turtle. I like to hangout with my friends and we usually make songs […]
Yashica Nabar is a student at the University of Texas at Dallas. She is completing her Bachelor’s of Science in Supply Chain Management with a concentration in Project Management. During high school, she served in various presidential positions within her school’s Executive and Council boards. Her favorite memory was taking part in Mock Trial, in […]
I graduated from Kennesaw State University (Georgia) with my Bachelor’s in Accounting in 2017. Currently, I work for Build-A-Bear Headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri as an Internal Auditor. In my spare time, I enjoy watching live theatre performances and walking new trails at local state parks with my dog, Pepper.
Gerald Huesken Jr. is a Social Studies teacher, primarily teaching World History and Government & Economics, at Elizabethtown Area High School in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania. A graduate of Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in education, Mr Huesken has been teaching at Elizabethtown since 2008. His 11th Grade Government & Economics and […]
Halley is a junior at Midway University in Midway, Kentucky with a triple major (Equine Rehabilitation, Equine Farm Management and Marketing/Bloodstock Sales). She has begun her MBA (4 + 1 program), which will be in Farm Management. Halley enjoys volunteering at the Rooftop Rodeo and at Rodeo Houston, and rides competitively as a member of […]
Samir is an Atlanta-based entrepreneur with a career spanning finance, real estate, education, and military service. He is currently the Managing Partner of Trophy Point Investment Group, a private real estate lending company that specializes in providing loans to members of the military community. Samir is also an Officer in the US Army Reserves, where […]
I serve on the board of the Dallas Chapter of the Freedoms Foundation of Valley Forge, and have been published twice in relation to the national organization. I won the Harold Simmons Award for Excellence in Constitutional Teaching, and it encouraged me to apply for the James Madison Fellowship, a national teaching award, which I […]
I am a person that believes that students are the greatest gift and hope that we have in our world. We need to educate them so that everyone’s future is brighter. Being a teacher of students and other teachers is a great gift. I have taught 8th grade U.S. History and 7th grade Texas History at […]
My name is Nic Downs, and I’m a 32-year-old California native with a bachelor’s degree in Communications (California Baptist University) and an English-teaching (TEFL) certification. I’ve traveled extensively through 3 continents, and currently work as an online English teacher for Spanish-speaking professionals in Chile. My hobbies include reading, walking, traveling, and studying/practicing foreign languages.
Steven Jiang is a high school freshman at Walter Payton College Prep in Chicago, IL. He runs varsity cross country and track and field, competes on the debate team, and writes for the school newspaper. Currently, he is the co-director of Super Spellers, a spelling and vocabulary program for students based on his experience competing […]
Shaynlin Smith grew up in Drexel, Missouri where she graduated from Drexel High School in 2022 as Valedictorian and Class President. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Psychology minor from Central Methodist University. Shaynlin is planning to attend graduate school in the Fall of 2024 to begin working […]
Dakare C. Chatman was born on August 17th and is a native of Charleston, South Carolina. Dakare now resides in Lenoir, North Carolina, where he attends the Caldwell Early College, and is in the ninth grade. Dakare is a strong supporter of the fine arts and has appeared in many play productions. Some of his […]
Brandon Vanderford is the CEO of Vanderford Capital Research Group and a Crypto-Economist. Brandon is currently doing research and forecasting analysis of crypto-currency / commodity markets. Brandon has owned and operated a state-of-the-art recording studio and video production company in the DFW area for nearly 16 years. In that time he has worked with top […]
Victoria Bauman is a successful creative entrepreneur. Her passion for the arts and creative expression began at an early age while attending a Waldorf School where the arts are fostered and connected to all aspects of the learning process. She continued her study in the arts while attending a high school specifically for the arts […]
Jack Burnett is a rising junior at St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School where he has attended school since kindergarten. Jack has been elected Class President the last 3 years. Jack has been a member of the heads list and National Honor Society. He is a student ambassador and tutors inner city kids in math. […]
Aiden Comeau is 17 and a New Hampshire resident. He attends Bedford High School where he is president of the debate team, founder of the Food Allergy Awareness Club and a National Honor Society class officer. Aiden loves to learn about issues relating to politics, economics and history, which prompted his interest in debate. He […]
Alexandra Gusinski, a 12-year-old, residing in Greenwich, Connecticut – is a first-generation American born in Los Angeles, on December 25, 2007. She is of Israeli-Russian descent and is the granddaughter of Russian-Israeli media tycoon, Vladimir Gusinsky. As a nature and marine life enthusiast, at age ten she received her Junior PADI Open Water Scuba Diver […]
Juliette Turner, daughter of actress Janine Turner, served as National Youth Director for Constituting America from 2010-2017. In 2017, she was appointed Executive Director. Juliette currently serves on the Constituting America Board of Directors. She is the author of Our Constitution Rocks (2012), Our Presidents Rock (2014), and the novel That’s Not Hay in My […]
Tim Bowling has nearly 30 years of experience in the Medical Device and Biotechnology Industry. He resides in Orlando Florida, and is currently Vice President of Sales for MicroGenDX, a company specializing in Molecular Diagnostics of Infectious Disease. Prior to his career in the medical industry, He served in the U.S. Army in the 24th […]
As we celebrate the anniversary of the adoption of the Bill of Rights, American politics and civic life seems more and more divided. The founding generation often saw a political environment that was just as divided as ours, if not even more so. Virginia statesman James Madison gives us an example of principled compromise to achieve the principles of limited government and inalienable rights as he became the “father of the Bill of Rights.”
Are you allowing political discussions at your holiday gatherings? Probably not. Our society is losing the ability to have a civil civic conversation. And this is bleeding into our ability to discuss meaningful political issues, even with those we love. My generation wants to change this. And we can, if we are given […]
Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor, and Whereas both Houses of Congress have by their joint Committee78 requested me “to recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanks-giving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness.”
Winner, Turner Maurice Gauntt, Jr. Exemplary Citizen Award Miranda Chastain is currently in her first year attending Texas A&M University but is already an academic sophomore due to earning over 30 hours of college credit while in high school. She is pursuing a degree in International Studies – Politics and Diplomacy Track, and will be […]
Winner, Best Constitution Lesson Plan Michelle Neyrey, 50, Best Teacher Lesson Plan winner, was born in Louisiana now living in Kingwood, Texas with her husband Keith. Michelle is a mother of twin boys. She has taught middle school for over 17 years in both private and public school. She feels if students experience history through […]
Best College PSA By Jorne Gilbert Jorne Gilbert, 21, has spent the last two years of education at Muhlenberg College where he studied Music and was able make 30 tackles last year as a DE on the Mules Football Team. Jorne is proud to have participated in Constituting America and would like to thank those […]
Adams was exasperated and yelled, “Am I gagged?” He argued that the gag rule was a “direct violation of the Constitution of the United States, the rules of this House, and the rights of my constituents.” He declared the gag rule a threat to free, deliberative government: “The freedom of debate has been stifled in this House to a degree far beyond anything that ever has happened since the existence of the Constitution.”
After the decisive Battle of Yorktown in October of 1781 where General George Washington’s army defeated and captured the British army commanded by General Charles Cornwallis, the British sued for peace. America had finally won the independence that Jefferson had written about in his famous Declaration formalized by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. It took more than five years of war to win that freedom. Now came the difficult task of establishing a nation dedicated to the principles of freedom and self-government.
Land of Dreams – By Norm Cady & Jeff Lewis Norm Cady I am writing to introduce myself, my music and my love of country. My home is in a small community in western New York. Although I have worked most of my life as a contractor, I have also spent most of my life as a musician […]
INTRODUCTION Essay 1 – Introduction – The United States Congress and Its Place in Constitutional Government. Introduction: The United States Congress and Its Place in Constitutional Government by Professor William Morrisey Essay 2 – Introduction (Part 2) – The United States Congress Today. Introduction (Part 2): The United States Congress Today by Professor William Morrisey […]
Against the arbitrary rule of George III, the American Founders opposed the rule of law. On the most fundamental level, in their Declaration of Independence, they appealed to the laws of Nature and of Nature’s God against tyrannical violations of the unalienable rights established by those laws. Eleven years later, in designing the human, conventional, constitutional law that reframed the federal government, the Founders established a republican regime intended to prevent the return of arbitrary rule to their country.
The premise of my life has been that all things, both good and bad, work in my favor to fulfill my purpose in life. At only 21 years of age, I am still piecing together exactly what I am meant to do for humanity, however, I am certain that all I have endured is the […]
Lindsay Gallagher is a senior at Spencerport High School in Spencerport, NY. She is the manager of her school’s bookstore, the Vice President of Competition for her DECA chapter, the president of her school’s Business Honor Society, the president of her Model UN team, and the founder and president of her school’s Girl Up Club. […]
Dakare C. Chatman was born on August 17th and is a native of Charleston, South Carolina. Dakare now resides in Lenoir, North Carolina, and is in the ninth grade. Dakare is a strong supporter of the fine arts and has appeared in many play productions. Some of his many roles include Ollie in “Yes Virginia,” […]
Kevin Vicente is 17 years old, and attending the Boston Arts Academy in Boston, Massachusetts. Along side his artistic pursuits, he also has been programming since he was 12 years old, and is currently taking the advanced C++ programming course at Bunker Hill Community College. Outside of class, he likes to play video games and […]
Hi, my name is Kennedy Owens. I am 11 years old, in 6th grade, and attend Sergeant Paul R. Smith Middle School in Tampa, Florida. My hobbies include: swimming, creating art, playing computer games, and making apps and YouTube videos. My main inspiration behind the Constitution Classroom app was to provide a useful resource for […]
Kevin McCraney, 28, from Seattle, Washington. Kevin has experimented with narrative and media since he was young. Ever the consummate creator, he gained experience working with video and music by producing material for school projects and his personal travel blog. After traveling the world and documenting his adventures, he is currently attending the MS in […]
Wesley Castillo is a 17 year old student living in Inwood, WV. He is currently on his senior year at Musselman High School. In addition to his regular classes, he attends a program at James Rumsey Technical Institute where he studies Web Development & Gaming. Outside of his classes he likes to record videos, play […]
Based in Gallatin, TN, 17 year old Cole Ritter is a talented musician who started violin lessons at age 3. A skilled musician, he plays a wide variety of stringed instruments, writes music, and sings. He also is versatile in musical genres with influences from classical, jazz, blues, country, bluegrass, rock ‘n’ roll, and Indie. […]
Katherine Plotz, 17, is from Chehalis, Washington, but currently resides in Tokyo and is in the 12th grade at The American School in Japan. Her passion for piano started at the age of three, and has influenced her fascination with mathematics, which she hopes to continue studying in college. She is in her school’s jazz […]
Alissa Dorman is currently a senior at Madison High School in Rexburg, Idaho. Alissa has always loved to write, from her first poetry contest in third grade to her We The Future entry. However, writing isn’t her only hobby. Alissa loves science, and she also loves to play the piano and the violin. Alissa is […]
Mallory Doyle, 13, is an 8th Grader at Holy Trinity Catholic Academy in Shelton, CT. She is a member of the Junior National Honor Society and has participated in Student Council, Drama Club, Peer Tutoring and Math League. With a strong foundation in academics and faith, she volunteers and actively participates in community service activities. […]
Tova Love Kaplan, 13, is an eighth grader in the Chicago Public School system and attends one of the most established and competitive middle schools in the nation. Tova is also a professional actor with a musical theater background and featured roles at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, the Mercury Theater Chicago, the Chicago Symphony […]
Mandi Hopper, Best Middle School Photography Winner Mandi Hopper is 13 years old and lives in Dublin, VA. She is homeschooled and loves acting, singing, and making cupcakes. View winning photograph here as PDF, or below: The Constitution As America’s Greatest Strength
My name is Joshua Landgraf and I am 11 years old and 6th grade student at Eubanks Intermediate School in Southlake, Texas. My interests include writing graphic novels, sketching and drawing 3-dimensional art, playing tennis, playing with my three siblings and I have a voracious appetite for reading, especially mythology of all types. I […]
My name is Gabriella Tommasi, and I am 11 years old. I have had a passion for music since I can remember! I love playing electric guitar most of all, but also play piano, drums and just this year, I have begun to play the trombone in the Eubanks Intermediate School band. I do more […]
Jackson Lipschutz, 10, is a fourth grader at Corbett Preparatory School in Tampa, Florida. He lives with his two sisters, his parents and his French Bulldog, Captain. His favorite subjects are writing, history and science. He enjoys playing the drums, creating art and also reading. He is a Boy Scout and loves the outdoors. Jackson […]
McConnell Gorman, 11 years old , lives in Colleyville, Texas. He attends Grapevine Faith Christian School and is in the fifth grade. He loves sports and plays tackle football. When he is not playing sports, he loves drawing. He enjoys drawing both realistic and cartoon compositions. He considers himself blessed to have won this art […]
Cason McIntyre, age 7, is a first grader at Estes Park Elementary School in Estes Park, Colorado. While he very much enjoys reading and art at school, he would say his favorite subject is recess! He spends many hours pouring over books or with a colored pencil in hand, working on his next masterpiece. He […]
Lena McIntyre, age 9, is a fourth grader at Estes Park Elementary School in Estes Park, Colorado. Her favorite subjects in school are science and art and she stays very active with choir and basketball. Outside of school, she expresses her creative side through art and dance. Living in Colorado also allows for many fun […]
As an educator at The Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy in Dallas, I have the unique opportunity to touch the lives of over 160 young men in my 7th grade Texas History and 8th grade US History classes. Not long ago, we had actress Janine Turner founder and co-chair of of Constituting America come to my class to speak to our young men about the relevancy of the US Constitution today.
We remember and and are eternally grateful to Joe Scaife for serving as one of Constituting America’s Best Song Judges since the inception of our organization. Joe was always so encouraging to us, and to our student contest winners. He met with them many times in Nashville, and was always so generous with his time. […]
Dwayne Horner’s love of country and love of our U.S. Constitution drew him to become a part of Constituting America and its goal of educating America on the greatest gift given to us: the U.S. Constitution. Dwayne has been involved in all aspects of civic engagement from serving as a senior advisor to Governor Rick […]
Courtney Janecka is the best high school song winner for 2020! Click below to listen to Courtney’s song!
By Juliette Turner – – Friday, February 19, 2016 The Washington Times Let it be noted: Pinocchio’s nose no longer grows when he lies. And it’s a real shame. For decades Pinocchio served as the shining example for youngsters like me, warning us to never lie. “If you lie,” our parents said, “everyone will find […]
By Juliette Turner – – Friday, February 12, 2016 The Washington Times If one were to look through the list of America’s past presidents, one would quickly conclude that many of the men who held our nation’s highest office would not have reached the Oval Office if they ran today. For example, James Madison’s soft […]
July 4, 1776 When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature’s God entitle them, a decent respect […]
When in 1863 Abraham Lincoln began his address at Gettysburg battlefield with the phrase, “Four score and seven years ago,” he reminded his fellow citizens that their cause in the Civil War was also the cause of 1776. In the year of America’s birth, Lincoln stated, “Our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new […]