From a beautifully simple four-page Constitution, to millions of pages of rules, regulations and laws, the workings of the three branches of the U.S. government continue to mystify and astound us. Whether you are student of government, or just want to know how what your elected representatives do for you, these videos will help you out find out what you need to know.
1. Just the Facts: The Executive Branch of Government
Learn about the creation of the most power branch of U.S. government from a historical and legal perspective. This video includes comments from educators and government officials on how the scope and authority of the president and the executive branch have changed through history.
2. Just the Facts: The Legislative Branch of Government
Created by the Constitution to create our laws, Congress, the legislative branch is made up of the House of Representatives and the Senate. This video traces every step of the lawmaking process from the congressional committee system to the role of special interests groups and lobbyists. The subtle and not-so-subtle differences between the House and Senate are also explained.3. Just the Facts: The Judicial Branch of the Government
The Supreme Court and the district courts throughout the 50 states makes up the judiciary branch. The judiciary branch is charged with applying and interpreting the laws created by the legislative branch to assure conformance with the Constitution. This thoroughly commented video examines the history of the courts and the challenges faced by the modern day judiciary.4. Just the Facts: United States Constitution
Since ratification in 1789, the Constitution has remained one of the most important documents in history. Creating a system of government checks and balances, and shared powers, the Constitution has severed as the model document for the establishment of free government around the world. This splendid video makes learning about the "law of the land" a pleasurable and rewarding experience.5. The Speeches of Our Founding Fathers & the American Revolution
Highlights include: Patrick Henry's 1775 "Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death" oration, three speeches by George Washington, excerpts from Jefferson's Declaration of Independence, Thomas Paine's impassioned "These Are the Times That Try Men's Souls" tract, and an immigrants' invitation by Benjamin Franklin.6. Founding Fathers - Box Set
This is a collection of the A&E Network’s award-winning series "Founding Fathers." The series turns the signatures on the Constitution into human beings. Relive the creation of the Constitution from the Revolution to the debates of the Constitutional Convention. Episodes include: Rebels... With a Cause, Taking Liberties, You say You Want a Revolution, and A Healthy Constitution.