The Classical Foundations of the American Constitution
Prevailing Wisdom

This book offers insights on how the framers and ratifiers of the Constitution were influenced by classical political theory and ancient history.

David J. Bederman (Author)

9780521187619, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 17 February 2011

352 pages
22.6 x 15.2 x 2.3 cm, 0.52 kg

"In this innovative and erudite study, Bederman surveys the influence of classical works on the American founding generation. A convincing argument for the Founding Fathers' use of classical ideas is lucidly advance. The book offers a more historically accurate and philosophically coherent argument than other recent volumes on the topic...The author defends the importance of original intent, with limitations, while concluding that the Founders' use of ancient sources was "instrumental and pragmatic."...Highly Recommended..."
--H.L. Cheek Jr., CHOICE

The framers of the American Constitution were substantially influenced by ancient history and classical political theory, as exemplified by their education, the availability of classical readings, and their inculcation in classical republican values. This volume explores how the framing generation deployed classical learning to develop many of the essential structural aspects of the Constitution: federalism, separation of powers, a bicameral legislature, independent courts, and the war and foreign relations powers. Also examined are very contemporary constitutional debates, for which there were classical inspirations, including sovereign immunity, executive privilege, line-item vetoes, and the electoral college. Combining techniques of intellectual history, classical studies, and constitutional interpretation, this book makes a unique contribution to our understanding of contemporary constitutionalism.

1. The framers' classical education and world view
2. Classical political models and the founders
3. Constitution-making and ancient history
4. Modern resonances
5. The classical Constitution.

Subject Areas: Legal history [LAZ]