The U.S. Constitution is the foundational document that establishes the national government. It outlines the structure, powers, and limits of the federal government, making it the supreme law of the land.

The U.S. Constitution is divided into seven articles. Each article addresses different components of the federal government, outlining its structure and functions.

The Legislative Branch, composed of the House of Representatives and the Senate, is responsible for creating laws. This branch was established to represent the people through elected officials.

The Bill of Rights consists of the first ten amendments to the Constitution and is designed to protect fundamental individual liberties. Its purpose is to safeguard citizens' rights from potential government overreach.

The President is the head of the Executive Branch and is responsible for enforcing and administering federal laws. This role includes managing national affairs and representing the country on the global stage.

The system of checks and balances ensures that no single branch of government becomes too powerful by allowing each branch to limit the powers of the others. This mutual oversight helps maintain a balanced and fair government.

The First Amendment explicitly safeguards freedoms such as speech, religion, and the press. It is a fundamental part of American civil liberties, ensuring that individuals can express themselves without undue government interference.

Federalism is the division of power between the national government and the state governments. This structure allows states to address local issues while still being part of a united federal system.

The Constitution can be amended through a structured process that begins with a proposal either by Congress or a constitutional convention and is then ratified by the states. This deliberate procedure ensures that amendments are carefully considered and widely supported.

Judicial review allows courts to evaluate whether laws and government actions adhere to the Constitution. This process serves as a critical check on the actions of the legislative and executive branches.

Democracy is a system where the government derives its power from the consent of the governed. It emphasizes active participation by the public in decision-making and leadership selection through elections.

Article I of the Constitution details the structure, powers, and responsibilities of the Legislative Branch, which includes Congress. This article is fundamental in outlining how laws are created and the limits of legislative power.

The Supreme Court is the highest judicial authority in the United States. Its primary role is to interpret the Constitution and review laws to ensure they are in alignment with constitutional principles.

The Thirteenth Amendment legally abolished slavery and involuntary servitude in the United States. This amendment marked a significant transformation in American society following the Civil War.

The Necessary and Proper Clause gives Congress the flexibility to pass laws that are essential for carrying out its enumerated responsibilities. This clause is often referred to as the Elastic Clause because it allows the lawmaking process to adapt to new challenges.

Checks and balances distribute power among the three branches of government so that each branch can restrain the others. This interlocking system prevents any single branch from becoming too powerful and risking tyranny.

The Federalist Papers were influential essays that defended the Constitution by articulating its strengths and addressing concerns. Their persuasive arguments helped to shape public opinion and secure the necessary support for ratification.

The Supremacy Clause establishes that the Constitution and federal laws take priority over state laws. This provision ensures a coherent national legal framework and resolves conflicts between state and federal authorities.

The incorporation doctrine, established through the Fourteenth Amendment, extended the protections of the Bill of Rights to state governments. This change has ensured that fundamental rights are uniformly defended across both state and federal levels.

Popular sovereignty is the idea that the authority of a government comes from the consent of the people. This principle was fundamental in shaping the Constitution, ensuring that the government remains accountable to its citizens.