Constitution Day (USA)

Constitution Day is celebrated on September 17 in the United States. On this day in 1787, the leaders of the new country signed the Constitution. The Constitution is the highest law in the United States. It explains how the government works and protects the rights of the people.

What Is the Constitution

The Constitution was written in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. A group of 39 men signed it on September 17, 1787. It set up three parts of government: the President, Congress, and the courts. It also includes the Bill of Rights, which protects freedoms like speech and religion. The Constitution can be changed through amendments.

How People Observe It

Schools across the country teach students about the Constitution on this day. Some communities hold special events and readings. Government workers also learn about the Constitution at their jobs. Many people visit the National Archives in Washington, D.C., where the original document is kept.

Fun Facts

• The original Constitution is kept in a special case filled with argon gas to protect it.
• Benjamin Franklin was the oldest person to sign the Constitution at age 81.
• The word 'democracy' does not appear anywhere in the Constitution.

Did You Know?

The U.S. Constitution is the oldest written national constitution still in use today. It has been a model for many other countries.