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Creation of the Constitution

Current Offerings

Creation of the Constitution (7017): The course 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).

Sections

Creation of the Constitution | LAW 7017 Section 01 Class #1069

  • 4 Units
  • Grading: Law Honors/Pass/Restrd Cr/Fail
  • Exam:
    • In-class Final
  • Exam:
      • Details to come
  • Learning Outcomes Addressed:
    • LO1 - Substantive and Procedural Law
    • LO2 - Legal Analysis and Reasoning
  • Course Category:
    • Law and Humanities
    • Public Law

Notes: Cross-listed with History (HISTORY 153).

  • 2023-2024 Spring ( )
  • Mon, Wed, Thu
  • Room: LAW 95

Past Offerings

Creation of the Constitution (7017): The course 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, final exam, supplemented by short take-home essay. Cross-listed with History (HISTORY 153).

Sections

Creation of the Constitution | LAW 7017 Section 01 Class #1048

  • 4 Units
  • Grading: Law Honors/Pass/Restrd Cr/Fail
  • 2021-2022 Spring
    Schedule No Longer Available
  • Exam:
    • Take-home Final
  • Exam:
      • Remote: Details to come
  • Learning Outcomes Addressed:
    • LO1 - Substantive and Procedural Law
    • LO2 - Legal Analysis and Reasoning
  • Course Category:
    • Law and Humanities
    • Public Law

Notes: Cross-listed with History (HISTORY 153).

  • 2021-2022 Spring
    Schedule No Longer Available
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