What Makes the Signing of the American Constitution the Greatest Event in Modern History?

Posted on by Claudia Morales

The topic on how the US Constitution should be interpreted or amended is consistently being circulated in debates; however, despite this the signing of The US Constitution is still a remarkable event that allows Americans “To form a more perfect Union, establish Justice… and secure the Blessings of Liberty”.

The Development of the Constitution

In 1777 the Articles of Confederation was created with the vivid memories of the overbearing British authority in mind. This became the first US Constitution which formed a confederation of the sovereign states with a central government. Nevertheless, the Articles of Confederation contained several weaknesses that greatly concerned James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and George Washington. The Articles lacked a separation of powers, the power that was granted to the central government gave little authority to it, and the requirement to pass laws was considered very challenging. Therefore, a Constitutional Convention was held in order to draft a new constitution.

 

 The Constitution Analysis

The Constitutional Convention’s objective primarily focused on creating a separation of power within the government. According to The White House, this would result in a “Government with enough power to act on a national level, but without so much power that fundamental rights would be at risk”. As a result, the newly drafted constitution entailed three branches of government. 

The Legislative branch would be in charge of making laws while the Executive branch carried it out and the Judicial branch would evaluate the law. These branches of government would be involved in a system of checks and balances to ensure that one would not supersede the other. In 1789 the constitution took effect and several years later the Bill of rights was adopted to emphasize individual rights

The constitution is distinctive in that it reinforces limits on the government’s authority. On the other hand, other constitutions emphasize more of the citizens’ rights authorized by the government. This means that those rights are diminished by governmental authority. For example, this is seen in Canada’s Chart of Rights and European Union Constitution.

 

Effects of Constitutional Freedoms Found in America  

Economy

The US proceeds to be among one of the world’s leading nations in terms of economy. The BBC recognized how entrepreneurship and the cultural influence found in the US continue to have a global influence like through products made from Apple or the use of social media like Facebook. In 2015 the US produced “Around one quarter of the world’s wealth – $17.97 trillion” and the income was “$56,300 per capita, one of the highest in the developed world”. In addition, the US greatly contributes to international aid. The aid comes from the USAID and private companies.

Military Influence

According to Global FirePower, the US is currently ranked as number one out of 139 countries evaluated in terms of military strength. The US has one of the largest naval fleets in the world with superior technological hardware. The high availability of manpower, airpower, and land forces is exceptional.

Freedoms we experience

The bill of rights promises certain freedoms that contribute to the rich experiences Americans have.  The Times of India noted how the Comparative Constitutions Project (CCP) made a comparison of over 190 constitutions around the world to certain indicators. They found that Americans “Enjoy substantially much higher civil liberties than most countries”, and they are “An empowered population”. Freedom of religion, speech, and rights to a fair trial are just a few of those rights. If those rights are being violated then citizens raise concerns through voting, contacting legal authority, protests, etc.

The US has experienced a large increase in population, income, and diversity compared to other nations, yet the constitution and democracy is still in effect. It is through what the Constitution offers that the economy has flourished, the military strength supersedes the rest of the world, and the many liberties enjoyed by Americans are a result of it. It is the first of its kind in history. The signing of the US Constitution proceeds to affect the lives of Americans today. 

Alexander Hamilton: Why is He so Popular Today?

Posted on by Claudia Morales

Alexander Hamilton continues to be in the spotlight among Americans due to his historical contributions and the Broadway Musical that drew the attention of thousands of Americans. 

Who is Hamilton?

Hamilton was born in the 1750s on the Caribbean Island of Nevis. He was known as an excellent writer, which is what aided him in traveling to America to study at King’s College (Columbia University) in the 1770s. Furthermore, he fought in the Revolutionary War. After leading a company in the Continental Army, and fighting in multiple battles, HISTORY notes that General George Washington offered him a position on his staff. In 1781 Hamilton led the attack at the Battle of Yorktown which was the last battle in the War. 

His Influence Surrounding the U.S Constitution

The New York Legislature appointed Hamilton to the Continental Congress where he continued to express support for a strong central government. Also, while serving in Congress he criticized the Articles of Confederation for its lack to unify the country. After being officiated as a delegate to a convention in Annapolis, Maryland in 1786, it was Hamilton who suggested carrying out another meeting the following year in Philadelphia. He drafted the address to the states for this famed meeting known as the Constitutional Convention. James Madison and John Jay joined Hamilton in publishing prominent essays promoting the Constitution, which Hamilton wrote 51 of the 85 essays. These became known as the Federalist Papers.  

As Secretary of Treasurer

When George Washington was elected as the first president of the U.S in 1789, he appointed Hamilton to be the Secretary of the U.S Treasury. Hamilton emphasized the significance of developing financial stability in the country. He argued that the National Banking System and the federal government’s assumptions of state’s debts should be a primary focus. His influence aided in the success in the development of the First Bank of the U.S. 

Hamilton’s Popularity

Across the country statues of Hamilton are found at universities, like Columbia University, and cities have been named after him like Hamilton, Massachusetts. His legacy continues. However, the release of the Broadway play of Hamilton in 2015 significantly heightened his popularity and is one of the reasons why he is still popular today.  The theatrical performance gives the audience an insight into the life of the American Founding Father. According to The Guardian, “It has sold $1 billion worth of tickets – and won every theatrical prize (including the Pulitzer Prize for drama)”.  In addition, other sources like the biography Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow and an HBO miniseries about him have also contributed to his popularity. 

The combination of the pop culture surrounding him and his historical contributions as a Founding Father is ultimately what allowed him to stay on the $10 bill. In 2016, the $10 bill was going to be amended to remove Hamilton and display 5 women key leaders in the women’s suffrage movement. However, Fortune reports that many Americans, specifically historians and fans of the musical, vocalized their belief about maintaining Hamilton on the bill. As a result, Hamilton remains on the $10 bill.