Description
Book Synopsis: For most of the twentieth century, the American founding has been presented as a struggle between social classes over issues arising primarily within, rather than outside, the United States. But in recent years, new scholarship has instead turned to the international history of the American union to interpret both the causes and the consequences of the US Constitution. In Perfecting the Union, Max M. Edling argues that the Constitution was created to defend US territorial integrity and the national interest from competitors in the western borderlands and on the Atlantic Ocean, and to defuse inter-state tension within the union. By replacing the defunct Articles of Confederation, the Constitution profoundly transformed the structure of the American union by making the national government more effective. But it did not transform the fundamental purpose of the union, which remained a political organization designed to manage inter-state and international relations. And in contrast to what many scholars claim, it was never meant to eclipse the state governments.
The Constitution created a national government but did not significantly extend its remit. The result was a dual structure of government, in which the federal government and the states were both essential to the people's welfare. Getting the story about the Constitution straight matters, Edling claims, because it makes possible a broader assessment of the American founding as both a transformative event, aiming at territorial and economic expansion, and as a conservative event, aiming at the preservation of key elements of the colonial socio-political order.
Details
Unlock the secrets of the U.S. Constitution with the enlightening and thought-provoking book "Perfecting the Union: National and State Authority in the US Constitution". Delve into new scholarship that explores the international history of the American union and reveals the true intentions behind the creation of the Constitution. Discover how this pivotal document was designed to protect US territorial integrity and promote effective governance for the benefit of all citizens.
Author Max M. Edling expertly argues that the Constitution was not a tool to overshadow state governments but rather a means to facilitate inter-state cooperation and manage international relations. Gain a deeper understanding of the dual structure of government that was established, where both the federal government and state authorities played crucial roles in ensuring the welfare of the population. Explore the transformative and conservative aspects of the founding fathers' vision and see how it shaped the nation we know today.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to grasp the significance of the American founding with "Perfecting the Union". This book offers a fresh perspective on the Constitution and its impact on shaping the political landscape of the United States. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a student of political science, or simply curious about the origins of our nation, this compelling read will provide invaluable insights that challenge conventional narratives.
Ready to embark on a journey through America's historical roots and gain a newfound appreciation for the complexities of governance? Order your copy of "Perfecting the Union: National and State Authority in the US Constitution" today and elevate your understanding of the founding principles that continue to influence our nation.
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