The Short Constitution

"The Short Constitution" by Martin J. Wade is an early 20th-century educational guide to the U.S. Constitution, emphasizing the personal rights and freedoms it guarantees. It's designed to teach citizens, particularly young people, about their role in American democracy. The text opens by stressing the need for Americans to understand how the Constitution protects their lives, freedoms, and property, posing the question of what America offers its people. The authors argue that knowing constitutional rights is key to ensuring justice and opportunity for everyone. The narrative features Judge Garland, who shares his constitutional knowledge, reinforcing the idea that understanding these privileges and responsibilities is crucial for a thriving democratic society that supports American values through education and involvement with the Constitution.