Constitution.
Definition
The supreme law of the United States, drafted in 1787 and ratified in 1788, establishing the framework for the federal government with three branches and a system of checks and balances. It has been amended 27 times and remains the oldest written national constitution still in use.
Examples
Real-world.
- 1 Article I establishing Congress as the legislative branch
- 2 The Commerce Clause giving Congress power to regulate interstate trade
- 3 The amendment process requiring approval by two-thirds of Congress and three-fourths of state legislatures
Key Fact
The Constitution was signed on September 17, 1787, by 39 of the 55 delegates.