A Guide to the Study of the History and the Constitution of the United States

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1888. Excerpt: ... CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES. Origin of the Constitution.--Before entering upon the study of the Constitution, the student will do well to glance at the causes which led to its formation. Although the English colonies in America were politically distinct, yet, when dangers encircled them, they were always ready to unite for mutual protection. Jealousy of the rival powers which, in the early history of our country, established colonies here, sometimes gave the impulse to this collective action; and the hostilities of the Indian tribes frequently produced the same result. When England began seriously to oppress her colonies, they quickly decided to form a union through which they might more effectually seek redress, or if need be, offer resistance. With these ends in view, the first Continental Congress, composed of delegates from twelve colonies, assembled in Carpenters' Hall, Philadelphia, September 5th, 1774, and continued in session till October 26th of the same year. Many of the ablest and best men in America, all anxious for peace and reconciliation, were members of this Congress, and had England been wise, she would have given heed to their pleadings and warnings. They drew up A Declaration of Rights, an address to the people of Great Britain, and a petition to the King; but, though these papers were eminently moderate and conciliatory, they failed to induce England to desist from her oppressive course. Pacific measures having at last been exhausted, armed resistance and bloodshed followed at Lexington on the ever-memorable 19th of April, 1775. But, though the colonists now found themselves engaged in war, they did not contemplate separation or independence. Their object was to secure those rights and privileges which the English Constitution se...