How Long to Read The American State Constitutional Tradition

How Long Does it Take to Read The American State Constitutional Tradition?

It takes the average reader 7 hours and 39 minutes to read The American State Constitutional Tradition by John J. Dinan

Assuming a reading speed of 250 words per minute. Learn more

Description

For too long, the American constitutional tradition has been defined solely by the U.S. Constitution drafted in 1787. Yet constitutional debates at the state level open a window on how Americans, in different places and at different times, have chosen to govern themselves. From New Hampshire in 1776 to Louisiana in 1992, state constitutional conventions have served not only as instruments of democracy but also as forums for revising federal principles and institutions. In The American State Constitutional Tradition, John Dinan shows that state constitutions are much more than mere echoes of the federal document. The first comprehensive study of all 114 state constitutional conventions for which there are recorded debates, his book shows that state constitutional debates in many ways better reflect the accumulated wisdom of American constitution-makers than do the more traditional studies of the federal constitution. Wielding extraordinary command over a mass of historical detail, Dinan clarifies the alternatives considered by state constitution makers and the reasons for the adoption or rejection of various governing principles and institutions. Among other things, he shows that the states are nearly universal in their rejection of the rigid federal model of the constitutional amendment process, favoring more flexible procedures for constitutional change; they often grant citizens greater direct participation in law-making; they have debated and at times rejected the value of bicameralism; and they have altered the veto powers of both the executive and judicial branches. Dinan also shows that, while the Founders favored a minimalist design and focused exclusively on protecting individuals from government action, state constitution makers have often adopted more detailed constitutions, sometimes specifying positive rights that depend on government action for their enforcement. Moreover, unlike the federal constitution, state constitutions often contain provisions dedicated to the formation of citizen character, ranging from compulsory schooling to the regulation of gambling or liquor. By integrating state constitution making with the federal constitutional tradition, this path-breaking work widens and deepens our understanding of the principles by which we've chosen to govern ourselves.

How long is The American State Constitutional Tradition?

The American State Constitutional Tradition by John J. Dinan is 447 pages long, and a total of 114,879 words.

This makes it 151% the length of the average book. It also has 140% more words than the average book.

How Long Does it Take to Read The American State Constitutional Tradition Aloud?

The average oral reading speed is 183 words per minute. This means it takes 10 hours and 27 minutes to read The American State Constitutional Tradition aloud.

What Reading Level is The American State Constitutional Tradition?

The American State Constitutional Tradition is suitable for students ages 12 and up.

Note that there may be other factors that effect this rating besides length that are not factored in on this page. This may include things like complex language or sensitive topics not suitable for students of certain ages.

When deciding what to show young students always use your best judgement and consult a professional.

Where Can I Buy The American State Constitutional Tradition?

The American State Constitutional Tradition by John J. Dinan is sold by several retailers and bookshops. However, Read Time works with Amazon to provide an easier way to purchase books.

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