Introduction to the US Constitution

This masterclass presents an overview on US Politics, looking at principles and structure, as well as comparing it to the UK system. You will begin by looking at the US Constitution, its importance, how it has sent up the different branches of governance in the US, and how it differs from the UK Constitution, both in terms of form and content. You will then move on to look in more detail at the legislative branch of governance (Congress) and what the responsibilities of the different parts of this bicameral legislature are, as well as their make up. You will also consider the role of federalism in the US, looking at both its importance in the history of the US and the effects that power struggles between federal and state governments have on everyday politics. Finally, this will lead on to a discussion on civil liberties, how the Constitution protects them, how these protections have been bypassed in the past, and how progress can be held back in some cases by issues such as religion.

• Duration: Suggested 1-2 hours, dependent on the level of detail desired.