The Second Bill of Rights and The New Federalist Papers offers a non-partisan package of eleven amendments to the United States Constitution, accompanied by fifty brief essays, all aimed at re-energizing three core principles named by the Founders—limited government, individual freedom, and liberty. As in 1787, these principles are essential in overcoming factional politics in any government administered by some citizens over others. Each essay is contributed anonymously, as James Madison, John Jay, and Alexander Hamilton contributed to the original Federalist Papers. The Founders established among the States the world’s first free-trade zone—the most fabulous success in history. Unlike so many revolutions on the ash heap of history—the American Revolution succeeded because citizens accepted power as their due, and both freedom and liberty were guaranteed to citizens by the Constitution. The Founders didn’t “talk” about giving power to citizens: they gave it. They did not think they were indispensable; they assured regular transition of power. They did not presume to know what was best for fellow citizens; they encouraged individual choice and responsibility. George Washington described the constitution’s amendment process in a letter to his nephew. He took for granted that experience would reveal the constitution’s imperfections, requiring careful consideration and future amendment by the people. Washington wrote, “I do not think we are more inspired, have more wisdom, or possess more virtue, than those who will come after us.” With this same perspective, and with a focus on principles that unite us rather than divide us, The Second Bill of Rights and the New Federalist Papers: Eleven Amendments to the United States Constitution and Fifty Papers that Present Them offers an innovative, holistic, and humble path forward, a path that Miller and his contributors hope is worthy of Washington’s confidence.
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