Explains the meaning of a writ of habeas corpus, provides a brief history of its use in England and the United States, and clarifies how the writ is used as an instrument which compels government to adhere to basic constitutional and legal principles rather than exercise power in an arbitrary and self-serving manner. (JDH)

Reviews the earliest roots of the legal values and principles embodied in the United States Constitution, much of which may be traced to the Magna Carta (1215) and other precedents set by English law. (JDH)

Compares the impeachment proceedings in the trials of Andrew Johnson, Richard Nixon, and Bill Clinton. Categorizes an impeachable offense as one that threatens the safety of the country, either as treason or bribery. Asserts that President Clinton did not violate the Constitution and therefore should not have been impeached. (CMK)

Describes student forums as a means for students to learn through role-playing instead of reading a textbook or listening to a lecture. Explains that students debate the issue of independence of the U.S. judiciary in this sample forum. Provides detailed roles for students willing to express their positions during the panel discussion. (CMK)

Presents a series of classroom activities comparing differing views of human rights in the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the African Charter on Human and People's Rights. Includes excerpts from the African Charter on Human and People's Rights and the full text of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. (CFR)

Implications and ramifications of the religion clauses of the First Amendment are examined. Supreme Court rulings of the last six years concerning many issues, including government and privately sponsored nativity scenes in public places, public aid to parochial schools, and equal access of religious groups to public school facilities, are…

Explores the constitutional amendments and federal laws that extended the right to vote to most citizens. Discusses the historical circumstances and social issues that surrounded passage of the 15th Amendment (elimination of racial barriers), 19th Amendment (women's right to vote), and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. (MJP)

Maintains that the National Voter Registration Act (the Motor Voter Law), which requires states to provide voter registration forms with vehicle registration and at public assistance sites, has increased dramatically the number of registered voters. Discusses legal challenges and answers critics' objections. (MJP)

Describes the development and structure of the German constitution, known as The Basic Law. Discusses recent changes, particularly in areas of family law and women's rights. Contends that the German parliament is considering expanding provisions related to human rights. (CFR)

Presents a concise overview of the responsibilities, membership, structure, and requirements of the Federal Election Commission (FEC). Created in 1974, the FEC oversees the financial activities of candidates and political parties. Discusses corporate and union political action committees (PACs) as well as contribution limits and prohibitions. (MJP)

Examines the controversies and consequences involved in drawing proper districts for federal and state representatives. Discusses the Supreme Court's role in deciding these questions. Provides definitions and related court cases concerning gerrymandering and malapportionment, the two most common abuses of the districting process. (MJP)

Traces recent developments in federal/state relations including the shift in federal aid from places to people. Examines the change in federal influence from grants to regulations. Concludes with a discussion of the differences between Congressional and White House attempts to trim the federal budget. (MJP)

Traces the historical development of the conflict between state sovereignty and the role of the federal government. State sovereignty, supposedly guaranteed by the 10th Amendment, has been seriously eroded by the federal government's extension of the commerce clause. Briefly discusses seminal cases in this development. (MJP)

Maintains that intergovernmental relations are dynamic because local, state, and federal governments constantly respond to changing expectations. This interdependent relationship requires the various governments to modify their pursuit of special interests through daily bargaining. This process affects every aspect of government. (MJP)

Encapsulates several brief articles providing perspectives from the states, the 104th Congress, the Supreme Court, and the White House. Issues covered include the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act and the White House attempts to reduce the federal workforce. Authors include Hank Brown, Rita G. Koman, James L. Martin, and Joseph R. Marbach. (MJP)