Consider the Constitution

In this compelling episode, host Dr. Katie Crawford Lackey sits down with Sharon McMahon, "America's Government Teacher" and New York Times bestselling author of "The Small and the Mighty," to explore the remarkable stories of overlooked women who shaped American democracy. From Rebecca Brown Mitchell, who helped secure women's suffrage in Idaho decades before the 19th Amendment, to fifteen-year-old Claudette Colvin, whose courageous stand against bus segregation helped pave the way for the Montgomery Bus Boycott, McMahon brings to light the extraordinary contributions of ordinary Americans who changed history. The conversation delves into how these "small and mighty" individuals' persistent efforts for liberty and justice continue to impact our nation today, reminding us that everyone has the power to make meaningful change. Through these inspiring stories, McMahon and Crawford Lackey demonstrate how progress is born of struggle and why every person's contribution to democracy matters, even when the results aren't immediately visible.

Delve into the heart of the impeachment process in the U.S. Constitution with Professor Michael J. Gerhardt, a distinguished professor of jurisprudence at the University of North Carolina Law School. Explore the historical origins, the framers' intentions, and the complexities of holding high-ranking officials accountable. With insights into recent events and the evolving role of political parties, this episode offers a thought-provoking examination of democracy's safeguard.

In this episode of Consider the Constitution, host Dr. Katie Crawford-Lackey and Professor Kendra Johnson discuss the Fourth Amendment, which focuses on aspects of privacy. The interpretation of the Fourth Amendment has evolved with technology, with cases involving wiretapping and cell phone searches setting precedents. Professor Johnson discusses the historical context of the Fourth Amendment, its impact on everyday life, and its potential future implications, particularly concerning advancing technology and privacy concerns.

In this episode of Consider the Constitution, host Dr. Katie Crawford-Lackey is joined by Montpelier Senior Research Historian Hilarie M. Hicks for a conversation about the relationship between James Madison and the Marquis de Lafayette, a Frenchman who became an icon of the American Revolution. The two men first met in 1784 and developed a deep friendship that was both politically advantageous and intellectually stimulating. They exchanged over 65 letters and their political philosophies are discussed in this episode. The podcast also touches on Madison's views on slavery and freedom of religion, and how these views influenced his drafting of the US Constitution. Lafayette's visit to the United States in 1824 and 1825, and his conversations with Madison during these visits, are also discussed.

Hear the best moments from all of our Constitution Month 2023 podcast episodes. Join Dr. Katie Crawford-Lackey as we consider The Bill of Rights, the First Amendment, the original text of the Constitution, the balance between government authority and civil liberties, the value of a free press, and the need for citizens to be politically and civically informed.