Madison & the Dynamics of the Constitutional Convention

By |2014-04-26T11:57:32-05:00May 19th, 2012|Categories: American Founding, American Republic, Constitutional Convention, James Madison|Tags: |

Studies of the Constitutional Convention, both “empirical” and more “impressionistic,” almost always emphasize its multiplex divisions: small states vs. large, “pure” federalists against proponents of a large republic, planting states against commercial interests, south against north. There is no denying the necessity of close attention to these conflicts. The Convention was a battleground for disagreeing [...]

Virtuous Men v. Champions of Modern Civilization

By |2016-11-26T09:52:15-06:00May 19th, 2012|Categories: Alexis de Tocqueville, Democracy in America, Quotation|

I also see gentle and virtuous men whose pure mores, quiet habits, opulence, and talents fit them to be leaders of those who dwell around them. Full of sincere patriotism, they would make great sacrifices for their country; nonetheless they are often adversaries of civilization; they confound its abuses with its benefits; and in their [...]

Go to Top