13 Things Every American Should Know About the Constitution
This post may contain affiliate links.
The United States Constitution stands as a cornerstone document that not only forms the foundation of American governance but also enshrines the liberties and rights of its citizens. Drafted in 1787 and implemented in 1789, it has weathered centuries of change, guiding the nation through dynamic and often tumultuous times.
Remarkably brief, the Constitution outlines the structure of the federal government while ensuring the balance of power amongst its branches. As an American, understanding this pivotal document is essential, as it continues to play a critical role in shaping the democratic principles and legal framework that influence daily life.
The Constitution is the Supreme Law of the Land
The United States Constitution is the country’s paramount source of laws and principles. Any state or federal law that conflicts with its provisions is considered unconstitutional and thus invalid. This concept, known as judicial review, was established by Chief Justice John Marshall in Marbury v. Madison (1803) and remains a cornerstone of American jurisprudence today.
The Bill of Rights Guarantees Fundamental Freedoms
The first ten amendments to the Constitution, collectively known as the Bill of Rights, explicitly outline and protect individual freedoms. These fundamental rights include freedom of speech, religion, assembly, press, petition, and the right to bear arms. The Bill of Rights protects against unreasonable searches and seizures and guarantees due process and a fair trial.
Congress has the Authority to Make Laws
The Constitution grants Congress the power to tax citizens, regulate interstate commerce, declare war, raise an army and navy, and make laws that govern the country effectively. This authority is distributed between the House of Representatives and the Senate. The legislative branch also holds the ability to override presidential vetoes with a two-thirds majority vote in both houses.
Executive Branch Enforces the Law
The Constitution establishes the executive branch, headed by the President of the United States, as responsible for enforcing laws passed by Congress. In addition to running the country’s day-to-day operations, the president has powers such as negotiating treaties and granting pardons.
The Constitution Provides Checks and Balances
The Constitution establishes a system of checks and balances to prevent any branch from becoming too powerful. Each branch oversees the actions of the other branches to ensure they follow constitutional principles and do not exceed their authority. For example, while Congress can make laws, the president can veto them if they are deemed unconstitutional.
The Supreme Court Interprets Laws
The judicial branch is led by the Supreme Court, with nine justices appointed for life. The court’s primary role is to interpret the Constitution and determine whether laws are constitutional. This power gives the Court immense influence over the country’s legal landscape, as its decisions can overturn previous rulings and shape future legislation.
The Constitution Can be Amended
The framers of the Constitution recognized that society would change over time and thus included a process for amendments. To amend the Constitution, two-thirds of both houses of Congress or two-thirds of state legislatures must propose an amendment, which requires ratification by three-fourths of state legislatures or special conventions in three-fourths of states.
It Defines Citizenship and Voting Rights
The Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution ratified in 1868, grants citizenship to all persons born or naturalized in the United States and guarantees equal protection under the law. The Fifteenth Amendment, ratified in 1870, prohibits discrimination based on race regarding voting rights.
It Outlines the Process for Electing the President
The Electoral College was established by Article II of the Constitution to elect the president and vice president. This process involves each state being allocated a certain number of electors based on its population, who then vote for their preferred candidate. While often debated for its effectiveness, this system remains the method for choosing presidents.
It Protects Against Tyranny
The framers of the Constitution were wary of giving any individual or group too much power. Thus, they designed a system with checks and balances to prevent potential tyranny. Separating powers between branches ensures that no one entity has absolute control over the country.
It is the Oldest Written National Constitution in Use
The United States Constitution is an enduring document and the oldest written national constitution. Its longevity speaks to its adaptability and relevance in shaping American governance for centuries.
It Has Been Amended 27 Times
The Constitution has been amended 27 times in its over 230-year history. These amendments reflect societal changes and address voting rights, citizenship, and presidential term limits. The most recent amendment, the Twenty-Seventh Amendment, was ratified in 1992 and prevents changes to congressional salaries from taking effect until after a new election.
It is a Symbol of American Democracy
The Constitution embodies the principles of democracy that America was founded upon – liberty, equality, and justice for all. Its enduring nature and impact on the country symbolize American democracy and inspire people worldwide to pursue freedom and self-governance. As such, it holds a special place in the hearts of Americans as a representation of their shared values and identity.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
Affordable Home Entertainment: 11 Must-Have Finds For Enhancing Your Family Movie Nights
Affordable Home Entertainment: 11 Must-Have Finds For Enhancing Your Family Movie Nights
31 Forgotten Household Items from the Past
The blueprint of the quintessential American home has undeniably evolved over the decades. Whether you attribute it to technological leaps or the shifting sands of aesthetic tastes, the fact remains: items once deemed household staples have now drifted into obscurity.
31 Forgotten Household Items from the Past
The 12 Best Microwave Air Fryer Combo (2023)
What if you could get an air fryer and a microwave in one appliance? That’s where microwave air fryer combos come in. These nifty little devices combine an air fryer’s cooking power with a microwave’s speed and convenience, making them a popular choice and essential item for busy families & households.
