Definition and Origins
The US Constitution is the supreme law of the United States, establishing the framework for the federal government. Drafted in 1787 during the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia and ratified in 1788, it replaced the weaker Articles of Confederation to create a stronger national government while balancing power among the states and the federal level.
Key Principles and Structure
The Constitution is divided into a preamble, seven articles, and 27 amendments. Core principles include federalism, separation of powers among legislative, executive, and judicial branches, checks and balances, and protection of individual rights. The first ten amendments, known as the Bill of Rights, were added in 1791 to safeguard freedoms like speech and religion.
Practical Example: The Amendment Process
A key application is the amendment process, which demonstrates the Constitution's adaptability. For instance, the 19th Amendment in 1920 granted women the right to vote after decades of advocacy. It required proposal by two-thirds of Congress and ratification by three-fourths of states, illustrating how the document evolves to address societal changes.
Importance and Applications
The Constitution serves as the blueprint for American democracy, guiding laws, court decisions, and governance. It ensures stability and protects against tyranny, influencing global constitutional models. In practice, it underpins Supreme Court rulings on issues like civil rights and federal authority, maintaining its relevance in contemporary society.