American Government: Constitutional Foundations

Online Course

edX
American Government: Constitutional Foundations

What is the course about?

American Government: Constitutional Foundations
The course American Government: Constitutional Foundations is an online class provided by Harvard University through edX. The skill level of the course is Introductory. It may be possible to receive a verified certification or use the course to prepare for a degree.

Learn how early American politics informed the U.S. Constitution and why its promise of liberty and equality has yet to be fully realized.

Course description

“We the People” are the opening words of the U.S. Constitution, yet the original document did not give citizens much say in the election of their officials. Though some of those issues have been addressed, substantial barriers—gerrymandering, voter registration, and voter ID laws—still restrain the power of the vote. Why? How can a country, founded more than 200 years ago on the ideals of liberty, equality, and individualism, still struggle to empower all of its citizens equally?This course explores the origins of U.S. political culture, how that culture informed the Constitution, and how that framework continues to influence the country’s politics and policies. We will examine the Constitution’s provisions for limited government, the division of power between the federal and state governments, and the forces that have made federalism a source of political conflict and change.We will address how the Constitution not only established the structure of the U.S. government but guarantees personal freedoms and civil rights. These rights have been challenged and expanded in significant Supreme Court cases, which will help to illustrate how historically disadvantaged groups have struggled to realize the 14th Amendment’s promise of equality.

Prerequisites & Facts

American Government: Constitutional Foundations

Course Topic

History, Law, Social Sciences

University, College, Institution

Harvard University

Course Skill Level

Introductory

Course Language

English

Place of class

Online, self-paced (see curriculum for more information)

Degree

Certificate

Degree & Cost

American Government: Constitutional Foundations

To obtain a verified certificate from edX / Harvard University you have to finish this course or the latest version of it, if there is a new edition. The class may be free of charge, but there could be some cost to receive a verified certificate (49.00 USD) or to access the learning materials. The specifics of the course may have been changed, please consult the provider to get the latest quotes and news.
Harvard University
American Government: Constitutional Foundations
provided by edX

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School: Harvard University
Topic: History, Law, Social Sciences