This anthology brings together foundational documents, historical essays, and landmark Supreme Court opinions to trace the evolution of American constitutional law, highlighting tensions among federalism, separation of powers, and the growth of judicial review; by juxtaposing primary sources with selected judicial decisions and explanatory commentary, it shows how interpretations of the Constitution have shifted in response to political, social, and legal challenges and equips readers—especially students—with a framework for understanding enduring debates over civil liberties, civil rights, and the Court’s role in shaping public policy.