America’s History: A Tuttle Twins Series of Stories, volume 2 (1776-1791)

Most history books treat the Constitution with unquestioning reverence and respect and discuss how essential it was for the fledgling states that had just secured their independence. True, there is much to admire about this document, but the real story of America is far more interesting than what most people are taught. For example, who struggled economically before the Constitution was ratified, and who benefited once it became law? What role did printing money play in the Revolution and in the desire by many to more easily collect taxes from the citizens? And while the Anti-Federalists—who opposed adopting the Constitution—lost the debate, what were they actually right about? The story of the Revolution is a complex one, involving courage, honor, and a burning desire for freedom—but it’s also a story of power, propaganda, and economics. Learning from the real history will help us better apply the lessons of the past to our lives today.