Akhil Reed Amar

Akhil Reed Amar, a Yale constitutional law professor and author, discusses America's 250th birthday with a focus on national pride and achievements. He highlights the contrasts between current sentiments and historical milestones, including the Declaration of Independence penned by Jefferson. The conversation dives into the lives of key figures like Adams and Washington, exploring their contributions amidst the backdrop of slavery's contradictions. Amar emphasizes the rich history of American ideals, the evolution of constitutional narratives, and the enduring significance of free speech.

Akhil Reed Amar, Yale's Sterling Professor of Law and a prolific author cited in over 40 Supreme Court cases, dives into the complexities of Roe v. Wade. He discusses why his liberal views align with Alito's draft opinion to overturn Roe. Amar probes the implications for abortion rights in America and the heightened need for political engagement from pro-choice advocates. He also offers insights into the cultural dynamics of the Supreme Court, especially in light of recent leaks, and emphasizes the necessity for legal reform over judicial rulings.

Akhil Reed Amar, a Yale Law professor and author, and Carol Anderson, an expert in African American Studies at Emory, explore the Electoral College's origins and significance. They dive into its historical roots, revealing how compromises over slavery influenced its creation. The discussion highlights the Electoral College's role in balancing state power and the ongoing debates surrounding its impact on democracy. Listeners gain insights into the complexities of electoral representation and the challenges of reforming a deeply entrenched system.

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.

Akhil Reed Amar, a leading constitutional scholar and author, joins to discuss his book, Born Equal, illuminating the significance of the 14th Amendment and birthright citizenship. He delves into the Civil War Amendments' impact on U.S. equality and clarifies the original meaning of 'subject to the jurisdiction.' Amar also challenges the scope of these amendments, arguing for broader interpretations beyond formerly enslaved individuals. Plus, Sharon tackles listener questions on tariffs, mortgage proposals, and Senate leadership changes.

In this engaging discussion, Akhil Reed Amar, a Yale Law professor and author of 'Born Equal', leads a thought-provoking exploration of birth equality. Joined by Kate Shaw, a constitutional law expert, and Kermit Roosevelt, a scholar providing a critical lens on themes of continuity and rupture, the trio dives into the connections among pivotal amendments. They tackle originalism, modern judicial interpretations, and the historical context of equality, stimulating a rich dialogue with audience questions that keeps the conversation dynamic and ongoing.

Historian David Blight, renowned for his work on Civil War memory, joins constitutional experts Akhil Reed Amar and Annette Gordon-Reed in a riveting dialogue. They explore how the Declaration of Independence emerged as a human rights document, particularly during the abolitionist era. The conversation delves into Frederick Douglass’s critique of American ideals and the evolution of the Reconstruction Amendments. The guests also discuss the significance of the Declaration in modern democratic movements and historical resistance against oppression.

Akhil Reed Amar, Sterling Professor of Law at Yale, unpacks the U.S. Constitution's evolution from 1840 to 1920. He argues for America as a 'creedal nation' rooted in equality while exploring the implications of the three-fifths clause on electoral processes. Amar discusses key historical figures like Lincoln and the significance of the Reconstruction Amendments, intertwining the narratives of slavery, civil rights, and women’s suffrage. His insights reveal how constitutional history shapes modern America and its identity.

Akhil Reed Amar, a Yale Law School professor and leading constitutional scholar, dives into the evolution of equality in America, as showcased in his book, Born Equal. He traces the origins of 'All Men Are Created Equal' and discusses Lincoln's interpretation of equality. Amar highlights the significance of the Reconstruction amendments in establishing birthright equality and analyzes influential figures like John Quincy Adams, Harriet Beecher Stowe, and Frederick Douglass. He emphasizes the importance of understanding constitutional history to foster civic learning.

In this engaging discussion, Akhil Reed Amar, a Yale constitutional law professor and first-generation American, emphasizes the U.S. Constitution's role in uniting diverse citizens. He reflects on his journey to understanding citizenship and the importance of constitutional knowledge as foundational for democracy. Amar dives into the complexities of amendments, advocates for consensus in today's polarized climate, and discusses the contemporary debate on term limits, highlighting the necessity of personal relationships in fostering bipartisan cooperation.