Why wasn’t the Bill of Rights originally in the US Constitution? - James Coll
936,449 Views
30,461 Questions Answered
Let’s Begin…
When you think of the US Constitution, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Free speech? The right to bear arms? These passages are cited so often that it's hard to imagine the document without them. But the list of freedoms known as the Bill of Rights was not in the original text and wasn't added for three years. Why not? James Coll goes back to the origins of the Constitution to find out.
Additional Resources for you to Explore
Interested in reading the actual writings of James Madison? Click here. Then, take some time to read Federalist No. 84 (Hamilton). Do you note any similarities or differences in their writings on this topic?
To attend an academy on the constitution, you can visit The Bill of Rights Institute which has some great opportunities, resources and lessons. Take a look and pursue your goal of learning more about the constitution of the United States and the Bill of Rights. TED-Ed also has a lesson on this subject that will inform you further. Take a look at: A 3-minute guide to the Bill of Rights - Belinda Stutzman.
Visit the National Archives of the United States and read the transcript of the Bill of Rights.
Finally, looking for a unique way to learn more about the Bill of Rights? Learn better with music? Visit The Bill of Rights Rap from Smart Songs.
About TED-Ed Animations
TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »
Meet The Creators
- Educator James Coll
- Script Editor Alex Gendler
- Animator Chet Knebel
- Narrator Addison Anderson
