This volume examines the development of the American notion of popular sovereignty from its colonial and revolutionary origins, from the days of its severely restricted meaning through its progress toward inclusion of more of the people . What does popular sovereignty mean as the idea of the people grows ever more inclusive? Who, in fact, are the People who count for political purposes? What are the responsibilities of those who are elected in the name of the people? What are the responsibilities of those who are elected in the name of the people? What are the responsibilities of the people for whom these representatives serve? Four distinguished commentators examine these questions and the social and political developments that have accompanied the growth and expansion of the will of the people .