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250 Years of the American Experiment
Highlighting the Karsh Institute’s news, projects, scholarship, and events around the 250th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Declaration of Independence.
Our People
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Events
A Nation at 250: Virginia Student Oratory Contest
In commemoration of America's 250th anniversary, Virginia undergrads deliver speeches centered on the prompt “Tell the story of a Virginian who embodies the Declaration of Independence.”
Taxes
How have debates over taxation shaped American history and its democracy? Vanessa Williamson (Brookings) discusses her new book with Justene Hill Edwards, UVA associate professor of history.
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Who Decides War? From Congress to the Commander in Chief
For decades, Congress has given up its constitutional authority to declare war, moving power toward the executive branch and raising questions about legality and core democratic principles.
America’s Civics Gap Isn’t Just What Students Know. It’s How They Engage.
What does it take to prepare Americans to participate meaningfully in their democracy? Experts examine how civic education can help cultivate knowledge, judgment, and civic virtue—starting at a young age.
Emergency Powers and Elections: What’s at Stake in 2026
Two UVA experts explore how emergency claims function and what the Constitution says about presidential authority over voting.
Executive Consolidation by Constitutional Disruption: The Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Bill No.3
"[The amendment] would roll back key features protecting Zimbabwe’s democracy," writes Karsh Institute Research Fellow D. Tinashé Hofisi. "The bill proposes prolonging President Mnangagwa’s tenure until 2030, consolidating executive control."
constitutionnet.org