The Constitution in Congress

2 credits · Law School

Many of America's formative constitutional struggles occurred in the halls of Congress. Principles now taken for granted were once vigorously contested along partisan lines. This course explores congressional deliberation that shaped American constitutional development. Topics include the spending power, the acquisition of foreign territory, the criminalization of dissent, military conscription, women's equality, Indian removal, the right to petition, the rendition of fugitive slaves, and the legacy of Dred Scott. Students will analyze key floor debates and committee reports alongside later Supreme Court decisions covering similar substantive ground.