After all, politicians aren't the angels they wish we'd think they are. ... These first ten amendments are the very basis of American life, and if you were to take away even one or two of them, life as the current generation of Americans know it will be altered forever, perhaps irreversibly. ... Freedom of speech, press, and religion is the cultural basis of the United States of America. ... In my opinion, the First Amendment is as good a description of America as any. We are Americans, and we are free. ...

• Word Count: 953
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

James Madison, according to some, is a prime example of a leader who attempted to secure the American people's civil liberties. ... Madison states, "If men were angels, no government would be necessary. If angels were to govern men, neither external nor internal controls on government would be necessary" (Jacobson, 566). ...

• Word Count: 1477
• Approx Pages: 6
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

Again, Madison though, explains that the "Constitution is to be founded on the assent and ratification of the people of America,"" in Federalist 39 like Hamilton implied when suggesting a constitution. ... As the Constitution advanced, still, Hamilton and Madison suggested another system in the latter called checks and balances because "If men were angels, no government would be necessary,"" as said by both Madison and Hamilton in Federalist 51. ...

• Word Count: 1087
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: Undergraduate