The Constitution

The United States Constitution is the most important law in America. It was written in 1787 in Philadelphia. The Constitution explains how the government is organized and what rights people have. It has guided the country for over 200 years.

Writing the Constitution

In the summer of 1787, leaders from the states met in Philadelphia. They worked together to write a plan for a new government. These men are called the Founding Fathers. George Washington led the meetings. After months of debate, they created the Constitution.

How It Works

The Constitution divides the government into three branches. The legislative branch makes laws. The executive branch, led by the president, carries out the laws. The judicial branch, led by the Supreme Court, interprets the laws. This system of checks and balances keeps any one branch from becoming too powerful.

Fun Facts

• The Constitution is the oldest written national constitution still in use today.
• Benjamin Franklin was 81 years old when he signed the Constitution, making him the oldest signer.
• The Constitution has been amended, or changed, 27 times since it was written.

Did You Know?

The original Constitution is written on four pages of parchment and is kept in a special case filled with argon gas to protect it.