Today in History: The Bill of Rights
Today in History–December 15–the Library of Congress features the Bill of Rights, ratified on this day in 1791. Did you know that, originally, 12 amendments were proposed? The original first amendment dealt with the number of people each congressional district should have and the second with congressional pay; neither was ratified but the latter did become the 27th amendment 200 years later. Learn more about the ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution known as the Bill of Rights by reviewing the Today in History section, then click the links below for more Bill of Rights resources.
The Bill of Rights primary source set
Bill of Rights primary source album TPS Teachers Network
The need for a Bill of Rights: letter from James Madison to Thomas Jefferson Oct. 17, 1788
Seventeen proposed amendments to the Constitution passed by the House of Representatives Aug. 24, 1789
Twelve amendments passed by Congress Sep. 25, 1789
Letter from James Madison to George Washington regarding Virginia ratification Dec. 5, 1789
Bill of Rights historical newspaper coverage 1789-1791
Charters of Freedom, Bill of Rights National Archives and Records Administration
Our Documents, Bill of Rights National Archives and Records Administration
The New United States of America Adopted the Bill of Rights, December 15, 1791 from America’s Library
Creating the United States: Bill of Rights interactive online exhibition
Bill of Rights Lesson Plans