John R. Vile Livres

Organized both topically and chronologically, this guide offers a comprehensive reference to Supreme Court cases, helping readers grasp their historical significance. Updated through the end of the 2021 Supreme Court session, it serves as an essential resource for undergraduate and law students, lawyers, and anyone interested in U.S. laws and the Constitution.

The book delves into the pivotal events of the 1787 Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, highlighting the debates, conflicts, and arguments that shaped the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights. John R. Vile examines primary records from the Convention, offering insights into the political dynamics and practical virtues that influenced the founding document. This exploration provides a deeper understanding of the foundational aspects of American governance and the complexities involved in its creation and ratification.

The book serves as a crucial resource for scholars and students across various disciplines, exploring the historical interpretations and applications of the Bible in American legal and political contexts. It delves into how religious texts have influenced key decisions and societal developments, offering insights into the intersection of faith and governance throughout American history.

Focusing on the delegates of the 1787 Constitutional Convention, John R. Vile provides detailed biographies that encompass their backgrounds, education, public service, and post-Convention lives. The book highlights the contributions of all delegates, including those who departed early or chose not to sign. Utilizing Convention debates and extensive secondary sources, Vile examines each delegate's positions on key issues and their roles in committees and state ratification conventions, offering a comprehensive view of their impact on the Constitution.

The book explores the amendment process of the U.S. Constitution as outlined in Article V, highlighting the challenges of obtaining two-thirds majorities in Congress for proposals. It critiques the perceived difficulty of this process while noting that state legislatures have largely overlooked the alternative method of calling a convention to propose amendments. This convention approach, which requires a two-thirds majority of state legislatures, offers a significant yet underutilized avenue for constitutional change that also necessitates ratification by three-fourths of the states.

Focusing on Dr. Benjamin Rush's insightful observations, this work presents character sketches of fellow delegates from the Second Continental Congress, enhancing historical understanding alongside William Pierce's accounts from the Constitutional Convention. It explores Rush's optimistic vision for the new republic, tempered by his political concerns, and delves into his correspondence with prominent figures like John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. Additionally, the book highlights Rush's innovative proposals for education and prison reform, showcasing his multifaceted contributions to American society.

George Mason's political philosophy and writings, particularly the Virginia Declaration of Rights, are central to understanding his influence on American political thought. Known as the father of the Bill of Rights, Mason's refusal to sign the U.S. Constitution highlights his commitment to individual liberties. John R. Vile explores Mason's contributions, revealing how his ideas shaped the foundational principles of American democracy. This examination spans 271 pages, delving into the significance of Mason's legacy in the context of U.S. history.