This multi-volume set, was first published in 1987 as four volumes, commemorating 200 years since the Philadelphia Constitutional Convention in 1787. Subjects in this edition fall into five categories: doctrinal concepts of constitutional law (55%), people (15%), judicial decisions, mostly of the U.S. Supreme Court (15%), public acts, such as statutes, treaties, and executive orders (5%). and historical periods (10%). Articles vary in length from brief definitions of terms to treatments of major subjects of constitutional doctrine as long as 6,000 words, to articles on historical periods in essay form which may be even longer. The set opens with a list of all articles in alphabetical order and a huge list of contributors (historians, political scientists, lawyers) with their associated institutions. Entries are arranged alphabetically and cross- referenced in this edition containing 361 new articles by 237 authors. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)