7In this superb text, Charles Austin Beard meticulously and comprehensively analyses and explains the economic underpinnings of the United States Constitution.

Examining the conditions which prevailed for all residents of the thirteen colonies in the late 18th century, Beard explains - among other things - the significant reservations and outright opposition to the Constitution many Americans felt at the time. Their concerns ranged from how the individual articles and provisions of the document may impact and even endanger livelihoods, to the precise wording behind each separate article.

Together with his consideration of the economic activity and trade at the era, Beard considers the views of the Founding Fathers, many of whom had commented on aspects of the incipient Constitution. The ratification of the Constitution throughout the colonies, and the various obstacles which had to be overcome - in particular within the state of New York - are detailed. Popular votes were held in several of the states, the tallies of which are also included and broken down into separate voter blocs.

This edition contains all the original tables and charts with no abridgement made to the text. Whether you are a general reader interested in the history of the U.S. Constitution, or a student or scholar of economics or law curious about the worldly context in which this historic document was written and implemented, Charles Austin Beard's valuable analysis is worthy of reading.