US Constitution
Definition
The US Constitution is the supreme law of the United States, adopted in 1787. It outlines the structure of the federal government and delineates the rights and freedoms of American citizens.
Analogy
Think of the US Constitution as a game's rulebook. Just like how every player must follow rules to ensure fair play, every citizen and government official must adhere to the Constitution to maintain order and justice.
Related terms
Bill of Rights: This refers to the first ten amendments to the US Constitution that outline fundamental civil liberties.
Federalist Papers: A series of essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay promoting ratification of the Constitution.
Separation of Powers: A principle outlined in the Constitution where powers are divided among three branches - legislative (makes laws), executive (implements laws), judicial (interprets laws).
"US Constitution" appears in:
Subjects (2)
Study guides (1)
Practice Questions (6)
What were documents such as the US Constitution and Bill of Rights designed to do?
Which principle remained consistent throughout the US Constitution from its drafting in 1787 to the modern era?
Which Enlightenment idea heavily influenced the drafting of the US Constitution?
Why did states ultimately decide to replace The Articles of Confederation with the US Constitution?
Whose concept was it to separate powers within government into three branches under US constitution?
Which amendment to the US Constitution provides protection against unreasonable searches and seizures?
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