This course is devoted to the history of the framing and ratification of the original Constitution. It is not a course on modern interpretation. It begins with readings setting forth the intellectual and experiential background of the framing, including common law and natural rights theory, republicanism, economic & political scientific ideas, and colonial and post-Independence experience. We then study large parts of the debates at the Constitutional Convention, primarily using Madison's Notes. Major topics are the principle of representation, the extent and enumeration of national powers, the construction of the executive and judicial branches, and slavery. Next come the ratification debates, including readings from antifederalist writers, The Federalist, and speeches in ratification conventions. We conclude with the addition of the Bill of Rights. Classes consist of a combination of lecture and extensive participation by students. Elements used in grading: Class participation, in-person closed book final exam, short-answer answer, supplemented by a short (LAW 500 word) essay question. Cross-listed with History (HISTORY LAW 153).
4 units · Law Honors/Pass/Restrd Cr/Fail
This course is devoted to the history of the framing and ratification of the original Constitution. It is not a course on modern interpretation. It begins with readings setting forth the intellectual and experiential background of the framing, including common law and natural rights theory, republicanism, economic & political scientific ideas, and colonial and post-Independence experience. We then study large parts of the debates at the Constitutional Convention, primarily using Madison's Notes. Major topics are the principle of representation, the extent and enumeration of national powers, the construction of the executive and judicial branches, and slavery. Next come the ratification debates, including readings from antifederalist writers, The Federalist, and speeches in ratification conventions. We conclude with the addition of the Bill of Rights. Classes consist of a combination of lecture and extensive participation by students. Elements used in grading: Class participation, in-person closed book final exam, short-answer answer, supplemented by a short (500 word) essay question. Cross-listed with History (HISTORY 153).
Offered in Spring 2026 at Stanford University.