The Northwest Ordinance of 1787 was signed on July 13, 1787. On July 13, 1787, Congress passed the Northwest Ordinance—an act that established a framework for governing the Northwest Territory, admitting new states, and protecting the civil liberties of settlers. It also banned slavery in the new territories. However, it granted slaveholders the power to … Read more
The Bill of Rights was ratified on December 15, 1791, 231 years ago today, coming into force on ratification by Virginia. The Bill of Rights includes a Preamble and Amendments 1 – 10 George Mason is known, together with James Madison, as the “Father of the Bill of Rights.” However, George Mason would be better … Read more
The Bill of Rights was ratified on December 15, 1791, 222 years ago today, coming into force on ratification by Virginia. The Bill of Rights includes a Preamble and Amendments 1 – 10 George Mason is known, together with James Madison, as the “Father of the Bill of Rights.” However, George Mason would be better … Read more
From the Congressional Glossary – Including Legislative and Budget Terms Joint Resolution A joint resolution, designated H.J. Res. or S.J. Res. Requires the approval of both houses and the signature of the president, just as a bill does, and has the force of law if approved. There is no practical difference between a bill and … Read more