U.S. Constitution
Definition
The U.S. Constitution refers to the supreme law of the United States, adopted in 1787, which establishes the framework for the organization and functioning of the government.
Analogy
Think of the U.S. Constitution as a blueprint for a house. Just like a blueprint provides guidelines on how a house should be built, the Constitution provides guidelines on how the government should operate.
Related terms
Separation of Powers: This term refers to the division of governmental powers among three branches (legislative, executive, and judicial) to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.
Federalism: This term refers to a system where power is divided between a central authority (federal government) and regional or state governments.
Bill of Rights: This term refers to the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution that protect individual rights and liberties such as freedom of speech, religion, and due process.
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