Preamble, Articles, and Amendments The Constitution Preamble, Articles, and Amendments

The Preamble The Preamble is the thesis statement for the Constitution. It sets forth the goals for the government of the United States of America. Based upon the principle of popular sovereignty. It starts with “We The People”

The Preamble (Continued) The Preamble established the following goals: Establish justice Insure domestic tranquility Provide for the common defense Promote the general welfare Secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity

The Articles The Constitution is made up of 7 articles or sections. Each of these articles establishes the functions and workings of the United States Government.

Article I Established the legislative branch. This branch of government makes the laws.

Article II Established the executive branch. This branch of government enforces the laws.

Article III Established the judicial branch of government. This branch of government evaluates and interprets the laws.

Article IV This outlines the relationship between the states and the national government. Includes the “full faith and credit clause” This means that each state must follow the public acts, records, and judicial proceedings of every other state.

Article V This sets forth the methods for how the Constitution can be amended. The provision to amend the Constitution was added so that the government could adapt or adjust to future changes.

Article VI This article contains the supremacy clause. This states that the Constitution is the supreme law of the land.

Article VII This dealt with the ratification of the Constitution.

The Amendments These are changes or additions to the Constitution. The Constitution has been amended 27 times. The first 10 amendments were added in 1791. They are known collectively as the Bill of Rights. The Bill of Rights was added to protect citizens from abuses by the national government.