What does the Constitution actually say—and why does it still shape nearly every major debate in American life?
In The U.S. Constitution, constitutional law scholar Melissa Murray makes America’s founding document clear, accessible, and relevant. She traces its creation from the failures of the Articles of Confederation through the compromises of the Constitutional Convention, then explains each article and amendment in straightforward language.
Along the way, Murray examines how the Constitution established the three branches of government, divided power between the federal government and the states, and expanded individual rights through amendments, Supreme Court rulings, and public action. She also confronts the document’s contradictions, including its original protection of slavery and its continuing struggles over voting, equality, executive authority, religious freedom, gun rights, and privacy.
Read the Instaread summary to understand the ideas, conflicts, and court decisions that continue to define American democracy.
