The Articles of the Constitution of the United States © North Carolina Community College System Clip art from http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/clipart/default.aspx

The United States Constitution has three parts. 7 Articles A Preamble 27 Amendments This lesson is on the seven Articles.

The Seven Articles are the plan of government for the United States.

Article I sets up the Legislative Branch of government Article I sets up the Legislative Branch of government. It creates the U.S. Congress.

Only Congress can make federal laws for the United States. Contains the controversial Necessary and Proper Clause

Article II sets up the Executive Branch of Government to provide leadership for the country.

The President is in charge of the Executive Branch.

Article III sets up the Judicial Branch of Government Article III sets up the Judicial Branch of Government. The Supreme Court is the highest court in the land.

It also tells how new states may be admitted to the Union. Article IV tells how the states relate to each other and to the federal government. Contains the Full Faith and Credit Clause It also tells how new states may be admitted to the Union.

Article V tells how the Constitution may be amended (changed). Only men can vote. Men and women can vote.

Article VI says the Constitution is the supreme law of the land…The Supremacy Clause Also says no public official can be required to take a “religious test” to hold office

Article VI requires public officials to take an oath to support the Constitution. It also authorizes Congress to borrow money (the national debt).

Article VII says the Constitution will be the law if nine states ratify (accept) it.

All thirteen states ratified the Constitution between 1787 and 1790!

Delaware was the first state to ratify the Constitution, and Rhode Island was the last.