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Six Constitutions over texas

In his foreword to Six Constitutions Over Texas: Texas’ Political Identity, 1830-1900, historian H. W. Brands describes the saga surrounding the development of the Texas state constitution as having “the sweep of a Russian novel . . . populated by characters as colorful as any of Tolstoy’s.” Indeed, even a glance at the table of contents reveals hints of international and regional conflict, intrigue, and shifting political alliances that characterized the rise and–in the case of the first five iterations–fall of the constitutions serving as the guiding document for what was variously a state of Mexico, an independent nation, a member of the Union, a Confederate state, and a newly subdued region under Reconstruction.

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The Noble Lawyer

In an essay titled “How to Pick a Jury,” Clarence Darrow articulated the notion that the majority of jury trials represent clashes between socioeconomic classes. This assertion, made in 1936, remains relevant in contemporary society. Similarly, William J. Chriss emphasizes the role of jury trials as a crucial mechanism within democratic societies to curb the dominance of affluent and influential individuals. He aptly describes the legal profession as democracy’s chosen vocation, highlighting the significance of jury trials in mitigating authoritarian tendencies among the privileged. 

The book, “The Noble Lawyer,” commences with this premise, undertaking a thorough analysis of the subject while also examining the prevalent negative perceptions of attorneys in today’s public consciousness. Despite their essential role in upholding the legal system and advocating for individuals, lawyers often face ridicule and misunderstanding. Chriss delves into the reasons behind this disparagement and offers a compelling defense of the noble ideals inherent in the legal profession. 

Throughout “The Noble Lawyer,” Chriss provides a historical account of the evolution of the American legal system and its current state. Drawing from a diverse array of sources including literature, cinema, and contemporary events, he illustrates the essence of lawyering and underscores the inherent responsibilities and virtues that define the profession. 

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Words From the Wise

“At a moment when Americans are wondering if their government will ever work well again, William Chriss’s account of Texans’ tinkering with their constitutions furnishes food for thought and cause for hope.”
H.W. Brands
“Beautifully written and painstakingly researched, this book is a must-read for lawyers, political theorists, and fans or foes of Texas.”
WALLACE B. JEFFERSONformer chief justice of
the Supreme Court of Texas
“We need more broadly conceived books like this one, which explains why and how Texans imagined and shaped their political identity.”
ROBERT WOOSTERregents professor of history (retired)
“Dr. Bill Chriss cogently and carefully explains how and why Texas framed and adopted each of its six constitutions.”
Thomas R Phillips Former Chief Justice of
the Supreme Court of Texas
'Six Constitutions Over Texas' is a gripping account of the powerful politics that created winners and losers in the ever-evolving battle for the soul of Texas."
WALLACE B. JEFFERSONformer chief justice of
the Supreme Court of Texas
“More than just an astute examination of the six constitutions of Texas — a considerable achievement in itself — Chriss deftly shows how those in power used and interpreted these documents over the course of the nineteenth century.”
ROBERT WOOSTERregents professor of history (retired)
“Chriss’ comparative analysis, solidly grounded in the political currents of the time, will be an indispensable reference for lawyers and judges trying to understand the original intent of provisions still being litigated today."
THOMAS R. PHILLIPS former chief justice of
theSupreme Court of Texas
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