In this election year 2024, the importance of the U.S. Constitution is greater than at almost any time in our nation's history. The course will explore the events leading up to the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia in 1787, the critical issues addressed in the Convention leading to the adoption of the Federal Constitution, the debate over ratification, and the living dynamics of the Constitution as reflected in the Amendments. Students will learn about the key players, the battles over ideas, and the totally revolutionary ideas embedded in the document. The Founders were uncertain the Constitution would survive their passing, but it has endured and is the longest functioning constitution in world history. Will it endure the current challenges?

"Great professor! Great and engaging lectures!" OLLI Patron

Week 1. The Road to Philadelphia
Week 2. The Convention Breaks New Historic Ground
Week 3. Ratification: The Greatest Political Debate in History
Week 4. Past, Present, and Future: The Amendments and
What Lies Ahead

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.