Miracle at Philadelphia: The Story of the Constitutional Convention

Miracle at Philadelphia: The Story of the Constitutional Convention, May to September 1787
by Catherine Drinker Bowen

Step inside the sweltering summer of 1787, when 55 delegates gathered in Philadelphia to draft what would become the United States Constitution. In this classic and highly readable account, historian Catherine Drinker Bowen brings the Constitutional Convention to life with vivid storytelling and rich historical detail.

Drawing from letters, diaries, and notes—especially those of James Madison—Bowen captures the intense debates, dramatic compromises, and powerful personalities that shaped the foundation of American government. Figures such as George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and Alexander Hamilton emerge as complex leaders navigating a fragile young nation’s future.

Why Readers Love It:

• A classic, accessible account of the Constitutional Convention
• Engaging narrative history with rich character detail
• Ideal for students, educators, and history enthusiasts
• A compelling look at compromise, leadership, and nation-building

An essential addition to any American history collection.