Democracy in Theory and Practice

Rationale

This unit examines one of the most exciting time periods in American history. A small group of independent colonies unite to rebel against their almighty mother country. Some brilliant minds convinced the world to help the colonies to rebel. This provided the colonies with resources to overpower Britain. Against all odds the colonies will prevail and break free, thus creating the United States of America. This period is important to teach because it is the beginning, the birth of the country in which the students live. Students should understand how their country began and the principles on which it was founded.

The unit will focus on some of the American heroes who risked their lives boldly signing the Declaration of Independence. The courage displayed and the risk these patriots were willing to take in order to stand up for what they believed is another reason why this unit should be taught. It is important for students to know who these players were and the role they played in giving birth to a new nation.

A major focus of this unit revolves around the Constitutional Convention. The founders pondered old ways and created new ideas about how the new government should look and work. Throughout this process James Madison emerges as an invaluable asset as a compromiser. Several of the major compromises will be examined to illustrate the difficult work that Madison achieved. Also by delving into these compromises the students will understand a few of the famous debates and why our Constitution is written in this way.

Madison was a brilliant American dedicated to the goal of getting the Constitution ratified. Madison worked tirelessly writing many of the Federalist Papers to help bring about ratification of the Constitution. The Federalist Papers were propaganda that was published in newspapers to convince people to support the Constitution. The Federalist Papers provide insight into the minds of the founders and show the intentions of the writers of the Constitution. Joseph Ellis describes James Madison's character in regard to his work with the Virginia Ratifying Convention. "The main character in the story is James Madison, a diminutive, paralyzingly shy Virginian who emerged at this dramatic moment as America's most profound political thinker." ¹ For the reasons just listed, James Madison's contributions need not be forgotten. His legend and political philosophy should be taught to all children whether they live in his home state of Virginia or in any other state in the United States of America.

In summary, this unit is important to teach because all students should value and understand the contributions made by our Founding Fathers and how this great country was formed.