The United States Bill of Rights vs. Virginia Bill of Rights

Chapter 11 Civil Liberties The United States Bill of Rights vs Virginia Bill of Rights State constitutions include bills of rights. In many states, the state constitution is becoming important in framing human rights beyond those incorporated in the U.S. Bill of Rights. Research the government of Virginia and determine the history behind its current constitution and bill of rights. Look at the following: The history of Virginia and its founding The Virginia General Assembly (1619) Virginia’s first constitution Research the United States Bill of Rights and determine the history behind each amendment. Why are each amendment included in the Bill of Rights? Look at the following: How the British treated the colonists before the American Revolution The British Bill of Rights The Declaration of Independence This work will be presented to the class before going onto step 2 (Beginning of Day 2) Compare the wording the Virginia state’s constitution with that in the U.S. Constitution. Is the state or national bill of rights more specific? Are there more rights listed in the state constitution? Are there any surprises (inclusion or omission of rights that strike the student as unusual)? Write a 5 paragraph thesis essay comparing the two bill of rights, reflecting on how the protection of civil liberties plays out under the system of American federalism.