Utah and the Constitution: A New National Narrative | Akhil Reed Amar | September 2023
Sep 27, 2023
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Akhil Reed Amar, a Yale University professor, discusses the birth of the U.S. Constitution, challenging common misconceptions and emphasizing the role of national security and geography. He explores the framing of California's Constitution, the compromises of 1850, and the absence of major gold or silver veins in New Mexico. Additionally, he discusses missed opportunities in ending slavery worldwide and the need to understand our national story.
The importance of a national narrative in fostering unity among diverse Americans is emphasized, as it provides a shared identity and sense of belonging.
The Constitution has multiple narratives, each with some truth and shortcomings, but understanding its democratic nature and the influence of national security and geostrategy is crucial.
Deep dives
The Importance of a National Narrative
One of the main ideas discussed in this podcast episode is the importance of a national narrative in fostering a sense of unity among diverse Americans. The speaker argues that Americans do not have commonalities in religion, race, geography, or even language. However, they do share a common constitution and a story behind that constitution. The speaker believes that without this common narrative, America would cease to exist as a united entity. The need to understand and embrace this narrative is emphasized as crucial for the survival and well-being of the nation.
Different Narratives about the Constitution
The podcast delves into different narratives about the United States Constitution. Several narratives are explored, each providing a different perspective on the Constitution's origins and significance. The first narrative portrays the Constitution as divinely ordained and blessed, although it fails to address issues like slavery and the dispossession of Native tribes. The second narrative presents the Constitution as an undemocratic document created by the elite to suppress the masses. The speaker asserts that both of these narratives have some truth but also some shortcomings. Additionally, the speaker introduces their own narrative, which emphasizes the democratic nature of the Constitution and the role of national security and geostrategy in shaping America's founding.
The Role of Slavery in American History
The podcast episode explores the significance of slavery in American history. The speaker mentions the 1619 Project, which argues that slavery is the central focus of America's story. While acknowledging the truth in this perspective, the speaker points out that it does not capture the full picture. They highlight the early abolition of slavery in the northern states after independence, attributing it to the influence of the American Revolution. The speaker presents a nuanced view that acknowledges the role of slavery but also considers other factors that shaped America's development.
Utah's Role in the National Narrative
The podcast discusses how Utah fits into the broader national narrative. It explains that Utah was part of the compromise laws enacted in 1850, alongside the admission of California as a free state. The speaker emphasizes the significance of compromise and the inclusion of Utah in the national story. The Utah Territory, encompassing parts of present-day Utah, Nevada, Colorado, and Wyoming, was expected to be a free soil territory due to its soil, water, and climate. The episode concludes by emphasizing the need to understand and embrace Utah's role in shaping America's history and the ongoing importance of learning and appreciating the national narrative.
Akhil Reed Amar, the Sterling Professor of Law and Political Science at Yale University, gives insights into the birth of the U.S. Constitution and an expanded historical narrative of its first half century. Amar, an American legal scholar, delivered this forum address on September 26, 2023. You can access the talk here.