The Constitution & Bill of Rights
The U.S. Constitution sets up the national government and limits its power. Its first 10 amendments, the Bill of Rights, protect key freedoms.
The basics
- The Constitution is the country's highest law. It was signed on September 17, 1787, and replaced the Articles of Confederation with a stronger national government.
- It has seven articles. Articles I, II and III create Congress, the presidency and the federal courts. The rest cover the states, amendments, federal law's supremacy and ratification.
- There are 27 amendments so far. The first 10, ratified in 1791, are called the Bill of Rights. They protect freedoms like speech, religion, the press and a fair trial.
- To add an amendment, two-thirds of both the House and Senate must propose it (or a convention called by two-thirds of the states). Then three-fourths of the states must ratify it.
- Amendments are rare. All 27 were proposed by Congress, never by a convention. The newest, the 27th, was ratified in 1992.
Why it matters to you
The Constitution decides who holds power and what the government is not allowed to do. The Bill of Rights is the basis for rights you use every day, like speaking freely and practicing your faith.
Myth vs. fact
MythThe Bill of Rights was part of the original Constitution.
FactIt was added later. The Constitution was signed in 1787, and the states ratified the Bill of Rights in 1791.
MythThe Constitution can't be changed.
FactIt can, but it's hard. It has been amended 27 times, and each change needed approval from Congress and three-fourths of the states.
What you can do
- Read the full Constitution and Bill of Rights on the National Archives website (archives.gov).
- Pick one amendment and explain it in your own words to a friend or family member.
- On September 17, the anniversary of the signing, read the Preamble and talk about what its goals mean today.
Sources
General information, not legal advice. Rules can vary by state; check your official sources.