By researching this topic, I was able to learn more about originalism, particularly before its official beginning. Legislative and framer intent and meaning have been a part of the Court decision process even before originalism became politicized. Reading Court opinions released in the 1950s which utilized reasoning that I could categorize as "originalist" was an absolutely fascinating experience.

The final presentation and oral defense, and then my later presentations at the research symposium, were my attempts to explain my research to an audience which may not have background in my study. I spent a significant amount of time producing graphics to try to explain my sampling methods and indicate why I made certain decisions in my data collection process. I was able to utilize the feedback I received from my initial presentation and the improvements I made at the research symposium to make my topic more understandable. I will be able to apply this knowledge to future learning when I am explaining my (hopeful) future research to others.

I learned that as a researcher, I enjoy studying texts closely and considering qualitative factors in addition to more objective quantitative data.  While I appreciate having more factual datasets, allowing for greater confidence in my results, I also liked being able to consider the opinions I was reading within their historical context. The evolution of opinion styles over the course of the decades was particularly fascinating, in addition to levels of disagreement among the Court throughout various periods.

My research paper can be viewed under the "Final Research" page.

Firstly, my AP Gov teacher Mr. Marshall provided assistance as I worked through my project which I am immensely grateful for. I was able to talk to him about originalism and some of my cases, and hearing what he had to say about my project undoubtedly shaped its final form.

Additionally, my AP Research teachers Mr. McBride and Ms. Dobos guided me throughout the research process by providing goalposts for me to achieve, ensuring that I could complete my project within the timeframe.

I will be attending CU Boulder as a Boettcher Scholar, where I hope to continue research in law. I would love to continue my research project on a broadened scale and with greater resources, in addition to assisting with other professor research. I will be majoring in political science and history, and hopefully acquire a minor in chemistry as well.