“[The Constitution] is a plan, but not a straitjacket, flexible and short.” Harry S. Truman In very few pages, it manages to provide an adaptable framework for government that has held up for more than 200 years.

Main Purpose: Framework for the U.S. Government Highest authority in the nation! Basic law of the United States Powers of all the branches of government explained within the Constitution A symbol for our nation (like the American Flag!) Represents America’s system of government, basic beliefs, and ideals (liberty and freedom)

How many parts are in the Constitution? What are they??

Constitution= 3 main parts 1)Preamble (introduction-states the goals and purpose) 2)Articles (7 of them!) (Describes the structure of government) 3)Amendments (27-additional/changes to the Constitution)

The Preamble: Opening sections of the Constitution Explains why the Constitution is being written Carefully chosen words to make it clear that the power of the government comes from the people Government depends on the people for power

“To form a more perfect Union”-unite the states more efficiently to better operate as a single nation. “To establish Justice”- create a system of fair laws and courts-all citizens treated equally. “To insure domestic Tranquility”-to maintain peace and order, keeping citizens safe.

“To provide for the common defense”- to be ready militarily to protect the country and its citizens from outside attacks. “To promote the general Welfare”-to help people live healthy, happy, and prosperous lives. “To secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity”-to guarantee the freedom and basic rights of all Americans (even future!)

The PreamblePreamble

The Articles: 7 Articles follow the Preamble First 3 articles explain the powers and responsibilities of each branch the government

Article I: The Legislative Branch -Leading role in the government (which is why it is first!) -Congress made up of 2 houses (SENATE & HOUSE OF REPS) >>Lawmaking authority -How the members will be chosen -What rules to follow in making laws -Majority of BOTH house must vote for a bill before it can become a law! -Specific powers that Congress has and does not have (collect taxes, coin money…can’t tax exports!)

Article II: The Executive Branch -Law-enforcing Branch>>President/Vice President -Explains how the leaders will be elected and how they are removed from office - President’s powers and duties -Armed forces -Dealing with leaders of other countries -Appointing certain government officials

Article III: The Judicial Branch -Interprets the laws and makes sure they are fairly applied -One Supreme Court and lower courts as Congress deems appropriate -Lists the powers of the federal courts and describes the kids of cases they may hear -cases involving the Constitution, federal laws and treaties and disputes between states.

Articles 4: All states must respect each other’s laws, court decisions and records. -Creating new states & the federal government promises to protect & defend the states Article 5 : How amendments were to be made Article 6 : Declares the Constitution as the “Supreme Law of the Land” Article 7 : Take effect when 9 states ratified it

Amending the Constitution: Constitution Amended=27 times First 10 Amendments=Bill of Rights (1791) Amendments vary from individual rights, improving our government etc. Amendment process = difficult -Proposal and ratification -Proposal by congressional action (2/3 vote by both houses) or by national convention (requested by 2/3 state legislature) -After amendment is proposed- ¾ of states have to ratify it. (by vote)

Interpreting the Constitution: Necessary and Proper Clause: “Congress has the powers to make all laws which shall be necessary and proper.” Congress can exercise powers that are not that are not listed in the Constitution. Interpretation Through Court Decisions: Supreme Court has final authority on interpreting the Constitution. Interpretation Through Congressional and Presidential Actions: New interpretations of the Constitution>>House of Reps can impeach federal officials/Senate can determine a person’s guilt. Interpretation Through Customs: Political parties not mentioned in Constitution=custom.

The Preamble-Funny The Constitution