U.S. Constitution

Definition

The U.S. Constitution is the foundational legal document of the United States, establishing the framework for the federal government and its relationship with the states and citizens. It embodies the principles of democracy, outlines the powers of government branches, and protects individual rights through amendments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The U.S. Constitution was drafted in 1787 during the Philadelphia Convention and ratified in 1788, coming into effect in 1789.
2. It consists of a preamble, seven articles, and 27 amendments, with the first ten amendments known as the Bill of Rights.
3. The Constitution established three branches of government: legislative, executive, and judicial, each with distinct powers and responsibilities.
4. Amendments can be proposed by a two-thirds majority in both houses of Congress or by a constitutional convention called for by two-thirds of state legislatures.
5. The Constitution has been amended 27 times, reflecting changes in society and government over more than two centuries.

Review Questions

• How does the U.S. Constitution embody the ideals of democracy?
  • The U.S. Constitution embodies democratic ideals by establishing a system of government based on popular sovereignty, where power originates from the people. It guarantees individual rights and liberties through its amendments and ensures that governmental power is limited and accountable through checks and balances among the three branches. This structure promotes participation, representation, and protection of rights, which are key aspects of a democratic society.
• Discuss how Federalist No. 10 and Brutus 1 highlight differing perspectives on the U.S. Constitution's design.
  • Federalist No. 10 argues that a large republic can best control factions and protect minority rights, suggesting that the proposed Constitution is effective in managing diverse interests through representation. In contrast, Brutus 1 expresses concern over the potential for centralized power to erode individual liberties and state sovereignty, warning that a strong federal government might lead to tyranny. These differing perspectives reflect foundational debates about balancing power and protecting democracy within the Constitution.
• Evaluate how the amendment process of the U.S. Constitution reflects its adaptability to societal changes over time.
  • The amendment process of the U.S. Constitution illustrates its adaptability by allowing modifications that respond to evolving social values and norms. The ability to propose amendments through either congressional action or state conventions ensures that constitutional change can occur in line with public demand. This flexibility has enabled significant changes, such as the abolition of slavery with the 13th Amendment and expansion of voting rights through subsequent amendments, demonstrating how the Constitution can evolve while maintaining its core principles.

Related terms

Bill of Rights:

The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution that guarantee essential rights and civil liberties to individuals.

Separation of Powers:

A governance model that divides government responsibilities into distinct branches to limit any one branch from exercising the core functions of another.

Federalism:

A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and smaller political units, such as states.