How did the United States Constitution become the supreme law of the land? Who wrote it? What issues did they face? Why is the Constitution important to us today? The Constitution is under attack at the same time few Americans can answer simple questions about what it says and what it means. Becoming America: The Constitutional Convention of 1787 addresses these important issues in a unique blend of interviews with nationally acclaimed scholars and experts and lively, upbeat songs from the new musical “Convention: The Birth of America.” Designed for “we the people” of all ages, Becoming America will take you on a tour of America in 1787 and in-person encounters with Presidents George Washington and James Madison. Sponsored by the Center for Civics Education at Concordia University Irvine, each of seventeen episodes is co-hosted by Dr. Jo Ellen Chatham, Judge James P. Gray (retired) and the Honorable Bijan Kian.An underlying theme is the notion that “The United States of America is the perfect idea. The United States of America is a work in progress.” How do we, as Americans, continue to build on the original principles of life, liberty, the pursuit of happiness, and equality under the law? Only a basic understanding of those principles, their origin and purpose, and commitment to their fulfillment can we assure their endurance and applicability to all Americans and those who live here.Becoming America promises to inform, inspire and entertain you through an historic journey unique in the history of the world and foundational to how our government was established and has endured for more than two hundred thirty years. The Constitution is ours. It belongs to us, “we the people.”
The Constitutional Convention was by no means a smooth proceeding. The delegates represented a wide array of interests and opinions and argued about almost every provision before coming to a near-unanimous conclusion before the Convention adjourned. Among the most hotly contested issues were the relationship between the states and the new national government and the powers assigned to the three branches of the national government. In addition, what checks and balances would be included to limit the powers of government? Judge Jim Gray, Dr. Jo Ellen Chatham and Bijan Kian are joined again by former
Congressman Tom Campbell, this time to discuss checks and balances as well as how they have been ignored or violated at various times in our history. Tune in for a great tour back in time and learn how the Founders tried to limit the power of government through what we call separation of powers and checks and balances.
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