America was founded with the understanding that the purpose of government is to secure the unalienable rights of “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.” Civil rights, in turn, are derived from and serve to protect the natural rights of all American citizens.
Readings:
The Constitution of the United States of America
Bonus:
The Federalist Papers
Course Overview
In 1776, America was founded on the principle that “all men are created equal.” This course examines the Founders’ understanding of equality, natural rights, and civil rights; the quest for justice in America through the Civil War, during Reconstruction, and in the 20th century; and the danger posed to freedom and civil rights today by identity politics.
Course Instructors
Larry P. Arnn
Larry P. Arnn is the twelfth president of Hillsdale College, where he is also a professor of politics and history. He received his B.A. from Arkansas State University and his M.A. and Ph.D. in Government from the Claremont Graduate School.
David Azerrad
David Azerrad is an Assistant Professor and Research Fellow at Hillsdale College's Van Andel Graduate School of Government. He received his B.A. from Concordia University, his M.A. from Carleton University, and his Ph.D. from the University of Dallas.
Lucas E. Morel
Lucas E. Morel is the John K. Boardman, Jr. Professor of Politics at Washington and Lee University and the Worsham Teaching Fellow at Hillsdale College's Van Andel Graduate School of Government. He received his B.A. from Claremont McKenna College and his M.A. and Ph.D. from the Claremont Graduate School.
Paul Moreno
Paul Moreno is the William and Berniece Grewcock Professor in Constitutional History at Hillsdale College. He received his B.A. from the State University of New York and his M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of Maryland at College Park.
Kevin Portteus
Kevin Portteus is the Lawrence Fertig Professor of Politics at Hillsdale College. He received his B.A. from Ashland University and his M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of Dallas.
