In this book, Michael J. C. Taylor outlines an intellectual history of the six essential phrases of the Preamble of the U.S. Constitution. These phrases convey what the essential goals and purposes of the Constitution are, and this books essential mission is to discern both the original intent of the Framers, as well as the Enlightenment legacy they left to us. This book examines the writings of the Framers, as well as the various works that inspired their ideas and the abstract concepts they studied.

Dr. Taylor obtained his interdisciplinary doctoral degree in both history and political science from the University of Missouri Kansas City. He served as a professor of American history and politics at Dickinson State University, Bemidji State University and Paine College.