The Creation of the Bill of Rights: "Retouching the Canvas"

Screenshot of Retouching The Canvas interactive.
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This interactive on the Bill of Rights highlights the differing perspectives that emerged in each state during the ratification process for amending the U.S. Constitution. "Retouching the Canvas" uses primary sources to illustrate the differing opinions and ratification process that resulted in the adoption of the Bill of Rights in 1791. Why were amendments to the U.S. Constitution deemed necessary? How did we end up with ten amendments when seventeen were originally proposed? What did representatives from the respective states disagree over? Use our Bill of Rights interactive to inspire student inquiry and a seminar activity that asks students to make arguments in relation to the compelling question: What should the first set of amendments to the U.S. Constitution include?