Full Text of the U.S. Constitution | Constitution Center

The Nugget

Understanding the United States Constitution is vital for comprehending the structure, powers, and limitations of the federal government.

Key quotes

"We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty..."
"The Congress shall have Power To lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States..."
"The right of citizens of the United States, who are eighteen years of age or older, to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of age."

The United States Constitution is divided into three main parts: the Preamble, the Articles, and the Amendments.
The Articles outline the structure of the federal government, including the roles and responsibilities of Congress, the President, and the Supreme Court.

The Preamble of the Constitution sets out the goals of the document, emphasizing the importance of unity, justice, defense, welfare, and liberty for the American people.
The Constitution grants Congress the power to raise taxes, regulate commerce, coin money, declare war, and make laws necessary for the functioning of the government.

The Amendments of the Constitution, including the Bill of Rights (First 10 Amendments), protect individual liberties such as freedom of speech, the right to bear arms, and the protection against unreasonable searches and seizures.
Subsequent Amendments extended voting rights to groups previously disenfranchised, such as the 19th Amendment granting women the right to vote and the 26th Amendment lowering the voting age to 18.

🏛️ Remember: The Constitution's Preamble lays out the foundational values that guide the governance of the United States.
💡 Insight: The Constitution not only defines the powers of the government but also safeguards the rights of individuals through its Amendments.
📜 Tip: Understanding the Constitution helps in comprehending the principles on which the nation was founded and how its government operates.
🗳️ Takeaway: The Constitution evolves over time to ensure inclusivity and fairness, as seen through the various Amendments protecting civil rights and expanding suffrage.

This summary contains AI-generated information and may have important inaccuracies or omissions.