Amending the Constitution

Two ways to add amendments 2/3 vote of each house of Congress Ratified by ¾’s of the states 2/3 of state legislatures can demand a convention. Only first method has been used

Bill of Rights

First 10 amendments to the Constitution Added to get support of some states, particularly Virginia Ratified in 1791 Originally there were twelve, one did not get added, one not ratified until 1992.

The Amendments

1. Freedom of religion and expression 2. Right to bear arms 3. Quartering of soldiers 4. Security from unreasonable searches and seizures 5. Right of due process of law 6. Right to a fair trial 7. Trial by jury 8. Fair bail and punishments 9. Rights retained by the people 10. Powers reserved to the states

Civil War Amendments

13 th Amendment – Abolition of Slavery 14 th Amendment – Rights of Citizens 15 th Amendment – Voting Rights

Key Amendments 16 th – The Income Tax 18 th – Prohibition of Alcoholic Beverages 19 th – Women’s Suffrage 21 st – Repeal of Prohibition 22 nd – Limit on Number of Presidential terms

Other Key Amendments 24 th Amendment - Abolition of Poll Tax in National Elections 26 th Amendment – Voting Age