The Original Counter-Argument: The Founders' Case Against the Ratification of the Constitution, Adapted for the 21st Century

Marking the 225th anniversary of the signing of the Constitution on September 17, 1787, this book reveals the most influential writings and speeches of those Founders who spoke out against the new Constitution. They warned about putting too much power in the hands of too few people. the book includes works from George Mason, Patrick Henry, Richard Henry Lee, Melancton Smith, Mercy Otis Warren, "Brutus," "An Old Whig," "Federal Farmer," and many more. The Appendices include the Articles of Confederation, the Constitution, the Transmittal Letter, the Bill of Rights, and a chart comparing the U.S. population of 1790 vs. 2010. You may have read the Federalist Papers. Now read "The Original Counter-Argument." The words of these Founders have been translated into easier to read and understand modern english. A real joy to read. Some key quotes: Federal Farmer: "There were eight or nine men who were appointed but did not attend [the Federal Convention in Philadelphia]. I will always consider that a very unfortunate event for the United States. If they had attended, I am pretty clear that the convention would not have resulted in a plan that in every part we detect such a strong tendency toward aristocracy. There would not have been such a great accumulation of powers in so few hands…" George Mason: "History has shown that there has never been a Government over such a large territory that did not destroy the liberties of the people." Brutus: “It will be impractical to govern such a large country, being at 3 million people and possibly growing to 30 million.” Brutus: “Once the people part with power, they can seldom or never get it back again, except by force. There are many instances in the past where the people have voluntarily increased the powers of their rulers, but few instances, if any, where the rulers have willingly reduced their own authority.” Mercy Otis Warren: "There is nothing to prevent someone from holding office for life, no provision for rotation... By this neglect we lose the advantages of that check to an overbearing disrespectfulness of office." Agrippa: "The spirit of commerce is the great bond of union among citizens. It employs people, supplies their mutual needs, defends their property rights, and produces mutual dependencies rendering the whole system harmonious and full of energy." Richard Henry Lee: "But what is the power that is given to this ill-constructed body? The ability to judge what is for the general welfare. And when Congress makes such judgment it becomes the supreme law of the land. This seems to be a power that extends over every possible piece of human legislation." The book includes an introduction to each essay, the translation of the essay, and then some Key Points after each essay to serve as a quick reference. The Constitution was signed 225 years ago. But that was just the beginning of the Argument! More info at http://PlanetBoyer.com View Less