Constitution

Definition

A constitution is a fundamental legal document that outlines the framework and principles of governance for a political entity, establishing the structure of government, the distribution of powers, and the rights of individuals. It serves as the supreme law of the land, guiding the operation of government institutions and protecting citizens' liberties. The U.S. Constitution, drafted in 1787, is a pivotal example, influencing both domestic policies and international governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The U.S. Constitution was signed on September 17, 1787, during the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia.
2. It established a system of government based on the separation of powers among three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial.
3. The Constitution has been amended 27 times, with the first ten amendments collectively known as the Bill of Rights.
4. The supremacy clause in Article VI states that the Constitution is the highest law of the land, overriding conflicting state laws.
5. Judicial review, established by the Supreme Court in Marbury v. Madison (1803), allows courts to invalidate laws that are found to be unconstitutional.

Review Questions

• How does the Constitution establish a framework for government and protect individual rights?
  • The Constitution lays out the structure of government through its articles, defining the roles and powers of each branch: legislative, executive, and judicial. It also protects individual rights by including amendments, primarily in the Bill of Rights, which specify freedoms such as speech, assembly, and religion. This framework ensures that while the government operates effectively, citizens maintain certain unalienable rights.
• Discuss the significance of federalism in relation to the U.S. Constitution and its implications for state and federal power.
  • Federalism is crucial to understanding the U.S. Constitution as it establishes a division of authority between national and state governments. This balance prevents an over-concentration of power at either level and allows states to exercise their own laws while still adhering to federal standards. Such a structure encourages diversity in governance and accommodates local needs while maintaining national unity.
• Evaluate how amendments to the Constitution reflect changing societal values and challenges throughout American history.
  • Amendments to the Constitution illustrate how American society has evolved over time in response to emerging challenges and changing values. For instance, the abolition of slavery was addressed through the 13th Amendment, reflecting a shift toward civil rights. Similarly, suffrage movements led to the 19th Amendment granting women the right to vote. Each amendment demonstrates an effort to align constitutional principles with contemporary moral standards and societal needs, highlighting the Constitution's adaptability.

Related terms

Federalism: A system of governance in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, such as states or provinces.

Bill of Rights: The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution that guarantee specific individual rights and liberties, such as freedom of speech and religion.

Checks and Balances: A system that ensures no single branch of government becomes too powerful by providing each branch with specific powers to limit the others.