A Nation Dedicated to Religious Liberty: The Constitutional Heritage of the Religion Clauses

Professor James H. Hutson

"A Nation Dedicated to Religious Liberty: The Constitutional Heritage of the Religion Clauses" is a book by Professor James H. Hutson, the Chief of the Manuscript Division at the Library of Congress. The book examines the history and meaning of the Religion Clauses of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, which begin with the phrase "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof."

Hutson argues that the Religion Clauses were designed to protect religious freedom by limiting the power of the federal government to interfere with religious beliefs and practices. The book provides a historical context for the Religion Clauses, tracing the debates and controversies surrounding the drafting and ratification of the First Amendment.

Hutson also examines how the Supreme Court has interpreted and applied the Religion Clauses over time, including key cases such as Engel v. Vitale and Employment Division v. Smith. He argues that while the Court's approach to the Religion Clauses has evolved over time, the underlying principle of religious freedom remains at the heart of the First Amendment.

Overall, the book provides a comprehensive and insightful account of the historical and legal significance of the Religion Clauses of the First Amendment, and their ongoing impact on American society and politics. Description by ChatGPT.