Linking the Declaration and Constitution

This week, we explore the life of an influential and yet, often overlooked founder, James Wilson. Whose ideas and influence continue to shape current debates about popular sovereignty, constitutional structure, and democratic self-government.  

Legal scholar William Ewald of the University of Pennsylvania and Jesse Wegman of the Brennan Center for Justice join to discuss Wegman’s new book, The Lost Founder: James Wilson and the Forgotten Fight for a People’s Constitution, which explores the life and legacy of this founder and Supreme Court justice. Julie Silverbrook, vice president of civic education of the National Constitution Center, moderates.

Resources

• Jesse Wegman, The Lost Founder: James Wilson and the Forgotten Fight for a People's Constitution 

Jesse Wegman, Let the People Pick the President: The Case for Abolishing the Electoral College 

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