The Declaration of Independence (Bantam Classic)

Some members of the Constitutional Convention refused to sign the final document because they were fearful of an all-powerful government and wanted a bill of rights added to protect the rights of the people. The states refused to ratify the Constitution until the Bill of Rights was added. Hence the Bill of Rights became the first 10 Amendments to the Constitution in 1789.

The original U.S. Constitution was 6 pages and contained 4,400 words. It is written in plain English to be understood by all Americans. It is the oldest and the shortest written constitution of any government in the world.

Constitution of the United States 1791 (Summary)

Preamble

The Preamble defines those roles and responsibilities that are unique to the Federal Government. Justice, common defense, general welfare and tranquility, and liberty.

Articles

The first 3 articles of the Constitution define the branches of Government:

Article 1 defines the Legislature, also called Congress, comprised of the House of Representatives and the Senate.
Article 2 defines the powers and duties of the Executive Branch (President), and the rules for impeachment
Article 3 covers the Judicial Power embodied in the Supreme Court, including the definition of treason.
Article 4 covers States rights.
Article 5 describes how the Constitution can be amended.
Article 6 relates to Constitutional supremacy.
Article 7 describes how the Constitution will be approved by the states.

Bill of Rights (first ten amendments) 1791

1 - Freedom of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition
2 - Militia and the right to keep and bear arms
3 - Housing of soldiers
4 - Freedom from unreasonable search and seizure
5 - Due process
6 - Speedy trial
7 - Trial by jury
8 - Cruel and unusual punishment
9 - Rights
10 - Powers not defined
The following Amendments have been added to the Constitution:
11 - Judicial powers (1795)
12 - Election of president and vice-president (1804)
13 - Slavery abolished (1865)
14 - Limits upon states (1868)
15 - Right to vote not limited by race (1870)
16 - Income tax (1913)
17 - Election of senators (1913)
18 - Prohibition of alcohol (1919) [repealed by 21st Amendment (1933)]
19 - Right to vote given to women (1920)
20 - Terms of office of president, vice president, senators, and representatives (1933)
21 - Repeal of Prohibition (Amendment 18) (1933)
22 - Presidency limited to two terms (1951)
23 - Presidential vote in D.C. (1961)
24 - No poll tax (1964)
25 - Presidential disability and succession (1967)
26 - Voting age lowered to 18 (1971)
27 - Congressional pay (proposed in 1789, ratified in 1992)

Check out the U.S. Constitution. You will find it both interesting and informative.

Editor Pauline Maier does a good job of covering the background of events that led to the Declaration and Constitution. Being compact in size, I see this book as being helpful for most high school students or prospective candidates for American citizenship because it can be carried in a pocket, purse, or coat pocket, and can be pulled out whenever necessary. The book's price is also a great incentive to buy a copy, because it won't blow a hole in your budget.

Overall, a great book at a great price!