These volumes present over eighty-three primary source and historical documents including the Bill of Rights, the Constitution of the United States of America, constitutional provisions, court opinions, debates, legislation, and speeches. Each document helps define events surrounding the proposal and ratification of the twenty-seven amendments to the constitution, from the Bill of Rights to the Twenty-Seventh Amendment. Additionally, amendments that did not pass and landmark court cases that have reshaped American Society are explored in depth.

Each Historical Document is supported by a critical essay, written by historians, teachers, and researchers, that includes a Summary Overview, Defining Moment, About the Author, Document Analysis, and Essential Themes. An important feature of each essay is a close reading of the primary source that develops broader themes, such as the author’s rhetorical purpose, social or class position, point of view, and other relevant issues. Each essay also includes a section entitled Bibliography and Additional Reading that provides suggestions for further readings and research.