The U.S. Constitution: Explained--Clause by Clause--For Every American Today

By Ray Raphael

Book Overview

For every citizen who wants to understand the foundation of American democracy, this clear guide by acclaimed historian Ray Raphael explains the U.S. Constitution clause by clause, revealing how its words shape our rights, our government, and the issues that define civic life today.

This edition offers: A modern clause-by-clause reading of the Constitution that explains its origins, impact, and relevance to current eventsGuidance for understanding today's most debated civic issues, from voting rights to gun ownership and beyondInsight from an acclaimed historian and constitutional expertA clean, user-friendly format that is easy to take to class, meetings, protests, and more
"Raphael's annotations are written with such clarity. Indeed, the kind of clarity we need at this critical moment in our nation's history."--Carol Anderson, Winner of the National Book Critics Circle Award

Presidents come and go, but the Constitution remains the supreme law of the land. It is the bedrock document from which we derive our policies on immigration, protests, gun ownership, voting rights, taxation, policing, and war. It dictates the structure of our government and sets forth our rights as citizens.

Yet even well-informed readers can stumble over the Constitution's archaic language and historical context. In this indispensable edition, Raphael offers a thoughtful, lively, and highly readable interpretation illuminating the intentions of the framers, the document's evolution over centuries, and what it means for Americans today.

Here is where concerned citizens can find answers and a reliable political fact-checking resource for navigating the issues in the news.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0525562540
• ISBN13: 9780525562542
• Release Date: October 2017
• Publisher: Vintage
• Length: 192 Pages
• Weight: 0.73 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 4.1" x 7.0"

Customer Reviews

The US institution Explained?

I did not waste anytime getting into this book. I have studied the Constitution in depth on several occasions. I look at two things on a book of this sort which is to explain the topic which is the constitution thoroughly, and is this opinion or fact? The writer just from reading two explanations is leaning one way. This is his option and not that of the writers. This is his interpretation not the facts. I would say this is not a book I would want my Grandchildren studying.this is an opinion related book. I usually make good choices but not this time. My opinion only would be if you want to learn more of what you pray never happens then read the book. He leans in one direction on most of today’s controversial issues. Sorry I waisted my money.