U.S. Constitution

Definition

The U.S. Constitution is the supreme law of the United States, establishing the framework for the federal government and outlining the rights and responsibilities of its citizens. It serves as a foundational document that not only defines the structure of government but also safeguards individual liberties and ensures a system of checks and balances among the branches of government.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The U.S. Constitution was drafted in 1787 during the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia and ratified in 1788.
2. It consists of a preamble, seven articles, and 27 amendments, with the first ten amendments collectively known as the Bill of Rights.
3. The Constitution created three branches of government: legislative, executive, and judicial, each with its own distinct powers and responsibilities.
4. The Supremacy Clause establishes that the Constitution, along with federal laws made pursuant to it, is the supreme law of the land, overriding state laws when there is a conflict.
5. Amendments to the Constitution can be proposed by two-thirds of both houses of Congress or by a convention called for by two-thirds of state legislatures, requiring ratification by three-fourths of the states.

Review Questions

• How does the U.S. Constitution establish a system of checks and balances among the three branches of government?
  • The U.S. Constitution creates a system of checks and balances by assigning specific powers and responsibilities to each of the three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. For example, Congress has the power to make laws, but the President can veto legislation. Meanwhile, the judicial branch can review laws to ensure they comply with the Constitution. This structure ensures that no single branch becomes too powerful and maintains accountability among them.
• In what ways does the Bill of Rights protect individual liberties under the U.S. Constitution?
  • The Bill of Rights specifically enumerates fundamental rights and freedoms that are guaranteed to individuals, such as freedom of speech, religion, assembly, and protection against unreasonable searches. These amendments serve as limitations on government power, ensuring that individuals have essential protections against infringement by federal and state authorities. By outlining these rights, the Bill of Rights reinforces the principle that individual liberties are paramount in a democratic society.
• Evaluate the significance of federalism as established by the U.S. Constitution and its impact on state and federal powers over time.
  • Federalism is significant because it balances power between national and state governments, allowing both levels to coexist with their own responsibilities. This division helps prevent tyranny by ensuring that power is not concentrated in one authority. Over time, this relationship has evolved due to various Supreme Court decisions and legislative actions that have either strengthened or weakened state powers relative to federal authority, reflecting changes in political priorities and societal needs.

Related terms

Bill of Rights: The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, guaranteeing essential rights and freedoms to individuals, such as freedom of speech and religion.

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

Separation of Powers: The division of government responsibilities into distinct branches to limit any one branch from exercising the core functions of another.