Book excerpt: The Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights, known collectively as the Charters of Freedom, have guaranteed the rights and freedoms of Americans for over 200 years. This book, published to accompany an exhibition at the National Archives in Wash., D.C., studies the dramatic events and philosophies which guided the Founding Fathers in the creation of these historic documents, the profound effect they have exercised on subsequent American history, and their wider influence on world politics. Specially commissioned color photos of the newly reinstalled Charters complement a selection of original documents, which include some of America¿s greatest documentary treasures.