1. What is covered by the First Amendment right to petition for redress of grievance?
The First Amendment of the US Constitution contains a clause that specifically protects “the right to petition the Government for redress of grievances.” But just what does this clause protect? The right dates back to the Magna Carta and protects the ability of a citizen to petition the king, or either house of parliament, to redress a wrong. Indeed, the Declaration of Independence was a perfect example of the exercise of this right. Today, all 50 states have enshrined this important freedom in their respective state constitutions. The right has also been expanded in recent years to include the right to petition administrative agencies.
2. Who was called the “Father of the Constitution”?
James Madison, of Virginia, is credited with the nickname “Father of the Constitution”. This is because his pivotal role in the drafting of the final document. Madison p resented was called “the Virginia Plan” as a blueprint for our national constitution calling for a bicameral legislature with representation based on population. He also played a central role in drafting the Bill of Rights – the first ten amendments which have served as the backbone of individual freedom for over 200 years.
—Larry L. Crain, Crain Law Group, PLLC
www.crainlaw.legal
