Ideal for introducing students to the conception and development of the Bill of Rights, this concise volume examines the Federalists' and Anti-Federalists' struggle over amending the Constitution while highlighting the relevance their debates have for modern-day issues. Rakove's lively narrative begins with a study of American roots in English common law, examines the heated discourse and thoughtful deliberation of the founders, and culminates with a close look at the evolution of rights distinctly American. Interspersed throughout are 25 primary documents - including letters, declarations, newspaper editorials, and debates - that embody and contextualize the issues. Also included are extensive gloss notes, a chronology, questions for consideration, a bibliography, and an index.