description The Constitution Overview
The Constitution is America’s foundational legal document. Established in 1787, it outlines the structure of the U.S. federal government defining its powers and limiting them. It guarantees specific rights and freedoms for citizens.
Primarily intended for lawyers, historians, students, and anyone seeking to understand American governance and its historical origins.
insights Ranking position
The Constitution ranks #2 of 39 in the History ranking, behind The Fall of the Berlin Wall, ahead of The Gettysburg Address.
help The Constitution FAQ
How many amendments does the US Constitution currently have?
The United States Constitution currently has 27 amendments. The first 10 amendments, known collectively as the Bill of Rights, were ratified in 1791, while the 27th Amendment was added as recently as 1992.
Where can you see the original copies of the US Constitution in person?
The original, signed copies of the US Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, and the Bill of Rights are displayed at the National Archives Museum in Washington, D.C. They are housed in the Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom.
What is the required process to amend the Constitution?
To amend the Constitution, an amendment must be proposed by a two-thirds vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, or by a national convention. It then must be ratified by three-fourths of the state legislatures, currently meaning 38 states.
Who is often called the 'Father of the Constitution'?
James Madison is widely recognized as the 'Father of the Constitution' due to his pivotal role in drafting and promoting the document during the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia in 1787. He later became the fourth President of the United States.
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