The Constitution as a Fulfillment of the American Revolution by Professor Jack N. Rakove

This short video challenges the notion that the Constitution was a conservative reaction to the democratic ideals promoted by the American Revolution. The Revolution generated constitutional discussion in the states, where legislators explored the nature of executive power, the characteristics of bicameral legislatures, and other constitutional questions. In light of this constitutional innovation, Professor Jack Rakove maintains that the Constitution of 1787 was the culmination of—not a reaction to—the Revolution of the late 1770’s. For more videos visit: www.jamesmadison.gov