On the record
But this was not the ordinary meaning of the word and it was by this usual and customary understanding of terms that the Constitution must be interpreted.
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gutenberg.orgAlbert Beveridge: “But this was not the ordinary meaning of the word and it was by this usual and customary understanding of terms that the…”
Editor's note · Context
Beveridge argues that the Constitution should be interpreted based on the common understanding of terms rather than a strict literal interpretation.
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More from Albert Beveridge
In the development of John Marshall as well as of his great ultimate antagonist, Thomas Jefferson, during the formative decade which we are now to consider, the influence of the French Revolution must never be forgotten.
Any nation, however, may by statute declare an act to be piratical which is not so by the law of nations; and such an act is punishable only by that particular state and not by other governments.
On this, the only vital and enduring question involved, Marshall's views were clear and unshakable.
Is not liberty secure with us, where the people hold all powers in their own hands, and delegate them cautiously, for short periods, to their servants, who are accountable for the smallest mal-administration?...
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