Live at the National Constitution Center The Life and Constitutional Legacy of Gouverneur Morris
Dec 17, 2024
Join Professor Dennis Rasmussen and editor Melanie Randolph Miller as they dive into the life of Gouverneur Morris, the unsung Founding Father who penned the Constitution's preamble and staunchly opposed slavery. They discuss Morris's advocacy for a strong executive and his critical influence at the Constitutional Convention, revealing how his ideas still resonate today. Miller highlights the complexities of Morris's reputation, emphasizing his humanitarian legacy and the need to recognize his pivotal contributions to American governance.
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Gouverneur Morris: An Unforgettable Founder
- Gouverneur Morris, a peg-legged ladies' man, is arguably the most interesting founder.
- He was also arguably the most dominant figure at the Constitutional Convention.
Morris's Underappreciated Influence
- Gouverneur Morris's contributions to the Constitution surpass even James Madison's, yet he remains underappreciated.
- He wrote the Constitution itself, including the preamble, and shaped the presidency.
Morris's Vision for a Strong Government
- Morris championed a strong executive and national government, winning key votes at the Convention.
- His vision aligned with Hamilton's, influencing the Constitution's structure.
