About the Constitution

The Constitution of the United States is the cornerstone of our American government. In 4,543 words this document describes the structure or plan of the government and the rights of the American people. The Constitution is known as a "living document" because it can be amended. Since its ratification, it has only been changed (amended) 27 times. The Constitution is a strong document, more powerful than any branch of government or any state. At the same time, it is flexible enough to allow for freedom and changes in America.

The Constitution is organized into three parts:

• Preamble: Describes the purpose of the document and government.
• Articles: Establish how the government is structured and how the Constitution can be changed. There are seven articles.
• Amendments: Changes to the Constitution; the first ten are called the Bill of Rights.

To learn more, choose from the following: The Constitution of the United States About the Constitution Early American History Text of the Constitution

A service of the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office.

Last updated: April 6, 2000
Page Name: http://bensguide.gpo.gov/3-5/documents/constitution/about.html