In this section, you will learn:
How Congress keeps records of its proceedings
The difference between the Journal of the House and the Congressional Record
How to read the real Congressional records using the Federal Holiday
laws as an example
Where to find House records on-line
Throughout the history of the Congress, Members have introduced
legislation to benefit their constituents, the states they represent,
and the nation. These public and private laws protect the rights of
all the nation's citizens, create revenue to fund government services,
and maintain the United States' standing in the world.
The records kept by Congress provide the clues that we need to learn
about laws and history. These records are primary sources—
They were created by people who actually saw or participated in the
event. Primary sources can be things like letters, photographs, and
articles of clothing. In the case of researching legislation, however,
we usually mean a statement of the law from a governmental entity,
such as a court, legislature, executive agency, President or Governor.
You'll be able to help A. Bill with his investigation by examining
these 5 clues using primary sources:
The Constitution
The House Journal
The Congressional Record
Bills & Resolutions
Put it All Together
SOLUTION
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