The Constitution of the United States is the supreme law of the land. It establishes the structure of the federal government, defines the relationship between the federal government and the states, and guarantees fundamental rights to the American people.
Establishes the Legislative Branch (Congress), made up of the Senate and House of Representatives, and defines its powers.
Establishes the Executive Branch, headed by the President, and defines presidential powers and responsibilities.
Establishes the Judicial Branch, including the Supreme Court, and defines the scope of federal judicial power.
Defines the relationship between the states and between the states and the federal government.
Describes the process for amending the Constitution.
Establishes the Constitution, federal laws, and treaties as the supreme law of the land.
Details the process by which the Constitution would be ratified.
Freedom of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition.
The right to keep and bear arms.
Restricts the quartering of soldiers in private homes.
Protection against unreasonable search and seizure.
Due process, protection against self-incrimination and double jeopardy.
Right to a speedy and public trial by an impartial jury.
Right to a jury trial in civil cases.
Protection against excessive bail, fines, and cruel and unusual punishment.
Rights not listed in the Constitution are retained by the people.
Powers not delegated to the federal government are reserved to the states or the people.
Abolished slavery.
Citizenship rights and equal protection under the law.
Prohibited denying the right to vote based on race.
Guaranteed women the right to vote.
Lowered the voting age to 18.
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