The American Revolution produced a galaxy of brilliant politicians and statesmen of extraordinary courage, intellect, creativity, and character. They succeeded in drafting an unparalleled Constitution and establishing enduring democratic political institutions while nevertheless failing to grapple with the wrenching issue of slavery and the rights of women. In this course, we will explore the lives, ideas, and political leadership of these men, most of whom belonged to the social elite of their day:Washington, Madison, Jefferson, Adams, Franklin, and Hamilton. We will study in depth their superb writings, such as the correspondence between Madison and Jefferson and between John Adams and his wife Abigail, and Madison's and Hamilton's Federalist essays. We will also read recent interpretations of the founding generation by Gordon Wood, Joseph Ellis, Edmund Morgan, Bernard Bailyn, and others. Format: seminar. Requirements: three papers, four class presentations. No prerequisites. Enrollment limit: 15 (expected: 15). Preference given to students with a background in American History or Political Science. Satisfies one semester of the Division II requirement.