1. The United States of America

2. History Great Britain (England) ruled our land Revolutionary War 1 year into the war, the Declaration of Independence was written. July 4, 1776 Freedom from England Rights

3. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AMERICA!! July 4, 1776 After the war the 13 colonies became 13 states. Inquire about the stars and stripes

4. Constitution The 13 colonies weren’t very united. Leaders argued 1787: A group of men met in Philadelphia to make laws. They didn’t like how the country was being managed. The laws were called the Constitution. The men who wrote the Constitution are called “The Framers.” Two of the Framers were George Washington and Ben Franklin.

6. Constitution Continued The Framers knew that the Constitution wasn’t perfect. Amendments allowed for changes. After the Constitution was approved by all 13 states, the Bill of Rights was added in 1791. Protects important ideas Freedom of speech Think for yourself Religion 18 amendments added Voting for African Americans and for women President can only serve 2 terms Last amendment in 1992 Salaries of Senate and Congress can’t be changed until new election Do you think more amendments will be added?