In this episode of America’s Founding Series, Professor Giordano explores the life and legacy of James Wilson, one of the most influential yet overlooked Founding Fathers. As one of only six men to sign both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, Wilson played a pivotal role in shaping the core structures of American government—including the Electoral College, the independent judiciary, and the concept of a single, energetic executive. Drawing from his Enlightenment roots and deep belief in popular sovereignty, Wilson’s vision helped define the Constitution as a government of the people. His warnings, insights, and contributions are just as relevant today as they were in 1787.
Episode Highlights:
- How James Wilson’s ideas shaped the Electoral College, the presidency, and judicial independence
- Why Wilson opposed the Bill of Rights—and what it reveals about constitutional interpretation
- The forgotten story of a Founder who helped design America’s legal system, then died broke and in obscurity
📲 Subscribe to The P.A.S. Report’s America's Founding Series to learn about forgotten patriots and the untold stories that shaped the fabric of America.
Timestamps
- 00:24 Forgotten Founder James Wilson
- 02:47 Wilson's Advocacy for Independence
- 05:44 Wilson's Role in the Constitutional Convention
- 10:56 The Electoral College and Popular Sovereignty
- 14:27 Wilson's Impact on Early American Jurisprudence
- 18:27 The Legacy of James Wilson
🔔 Subscribe for More:
📖 Sign up for The P.A.S. Report newsletter at https://pasreport.com
🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform!
Follow The P.A.S. Report:
📱 X, YouTube, Instagram: @PasReport
Share this episode and join the conversation!
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com