1. The Constitution

2. The Articles of Confederation- the first American constitution, passed in 1777, which created a loose alliance of 13 independent states. -The Articles failed because they gave the states too much power, and the federal government was very weak. - States did not have to pay taxes to the government, the country became very poor and many rebellions arose The Articles of Confederation

3. The Constitution Constitution- document that sets out the laws, principles, organization, and processes of a government - The Constitution was adopted by the Constitutional Convention in 1791 3 Main Parts of the Constitution 1.) Preamble 2.) Body 3.) Bill of Rights

4. The Preamble The Preamble (the opening statement) -T-To form a more perfect union -T-To establish justice -T-To ensure domestic tranquility - To provide for the common defense o promote the general welfare o secure the blessings of liberty

5. The Body (the Articles) - The body is divided into 7 sections called articles, these are the framework for our government The Articles I.The Legislative Branch II.The Executive Branch III. The Judicial Branch IV. Relations Among the States V. Amending the Constitution VI. National Supremacy VII. Ratification

6. The Bill of Rights (the Amendments) -A-Amendments 1-10 are called the Bill of Rights - There have been 27 Amendments to the Constitution Amend- to change