The Original Meaning of "Emoluments" in the Constitution

THE ORIGINAL MEANING OF"EMOLUMENTS" IN THE CONSTITUTIONRobert G. Natelson*This Article explores the original meaning of theword "Emolument(s)" in the Constitution. It identifiesfour common definitions in founding-era politicaldiscourse. It places the constitutional use within itscontext as part of a larger reform movement in Britainand America and as driven by other historical events.The Article examines how the word was employed incontemporaneous reform measures, in officialcongressional and state documents, in theconstitutional debates, and in the constitutional text.The author concludes that the three appearances of"emoluments" in the Constitution had a common meaning, which was "compensation with financialvalue, received by reason of public employment."