Books by Leonard W. Levy

Leonard Levy's classic work examines the circumstances that led to the writing of the establishment clause of the First Amendment: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion...." He argues that, contrary to popular belief, the framers of the Constitution intended to prohibit government aid to religion even on an impartial basis

The Pulitzer Prize-winning constitutional historian Leonard Levy here collects eight of his most important essays of recent years. Written with his characterstic erudition, clarity, directness, and verve, these explorations into the history of the law are at once an entertainment and an education. One of the clearest and most eloquent liberal interpreters of law. New York Times Book Review.

Rejecting the views of both left and right, Mr. Levy evaluates the doctrine of "original intent" by examining the sources of constitutional law and landmark cases. "Merciless and brilliant. In fascinating detail...Mr. Levy demonstrates that there can be no such animal [as original intent]."-Anthony Lewis, New York Times Book Review.