Overview of the U.S. Constitution
The U.S. 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. It outlines the powers of the three branches of government—legislative, executive, and judicial—and includes a preamble stating its purposes, such as forming a more perfect union and securing liberty.
Structure and Key Principles
The Constitution consists of a preamble, seven articles, and 27 amendments. The articles detail the establishment of Congress (Article I), the presidency (Article II), the judiciary (Article III), and other provisions like states' relations and the amendment process (Articles IV-VII). Core principles include federalism, separation of powers, checks and balances, and protection of individual rights, ensuring no single branch dominates.
Practical Example: The Bill of Rights in Action
The first 10 amendments, known as the Bill of Rights and ratified in 1791, provide a practical illustration. For instance, the First Amendment prohibits Congress from abridging freedom of speech, press, religion, assembly, and petition. This has been applied in cases like landmark Supreme Court decisions protecting protest rights, demonstrating how amendments safeguard civil liberties in everyday scenarios such as public demonstrations or journalistic reporting.
Importance and Key Amendments
The Constitution's amendments adapt it to societal changes, with 27 total. Main ones include the 13th (1865, abolishing slavery), 14th (1868, granting citizenship and equal protection), 15th (1870, prohibiting voting discrimination by race), 19th (1920, women's suffrage), and 26th (1971, lowering voting age to 18). These amendments are crucial for promoting equality, democracy, and justice, influencing laws on civil rights, elections, and governance.