The US Constitution: Foundation of American Government

Published on October 3, 2025

The United States Constitution, ratified in 1788, is the supreme law of the United States. It established the framework for the federal government and has guided the nation for over two centuries.

The Constitutional Convention

Following the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, 55 delegates met in Philadelphia in 1787. Key figures included James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and Benjamin Franklin. The convention lasted four months and resulted in a new constitution.

Key Principles

The Constitution is based on several fundamental principles:

• Popular Sovereignty: The people are the ultimate source of government authority.
• Separation of Powers: Power is divided among three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial.
• Checks and Balances: Each branch can limit the others to prevent tyranny.
• Federalism: Power is shared between national and state governments.
• Individual Rights: Protection of basic freedoms (later expanded in the Bill of Rights).

Structure of Government

The Constitution creates three branches:

• Legislative Branch: Congress (House of Representatives and Senate) makes laws.
• Executive Branch: President enforces laws.
• Judicial Branch: Supreme Court and federal courts interpret laws.

The Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments, ratified in 1791, protect individual liberties:

• Freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition
• Right to bear arms
• Protection against unreasonable searches and seizures
• Right to due process and fair trial
• Protection against cruel and unusual punishment

Amendments and Changes

The Constitution has been amended 27 times. Notable amendments include the 13th (abolished slavery), 14th (citizenship rights), 15th (voting rights for African American men), 19th (women's suffrage), and 26th (voting age to 18).

The Constitution remains a living document, adaptable to changing times while preserving the core principles that founded the nation.