The U.S. Constitution

After gaining independence, the U.S. faced the challenge of creating a government that would avoid having the same problems as a monarchy, in which one person is in charge and has absolute power. The U.S. Constitution, which established the structure of the U.S. government, the relationship between the states and the federal government, and the rights of citizens, was written by multiple contributors – most notably James Madison, George Washington, and Alexander Hamilton.  It was ratified, or made valid, in 1787.  

Some key elements of The Constitution included:

• The creation of three branches of government and a system of checks and balances, in which power and decision-making were not consolidated in one branch or with one person.  
• The establishment of a federal republic, in which power was divided between a national government and state governments.  
• The creation of a representative democracy, in which citizens elect officials to make decisions on their behalf  
• The protection of the individual liberties of American citizens
• The creation of a process for amending, or updating, the constitution 

The full U.S. Constitution can be read below. It is a truly fascinating document, and you are highly encouraged to take five minutes to read it over!

The creation of U.S. democracy was a bold experiment, built on the belief that the government should serve the people and be held accountable. This model of democracy, while imperfect, continues to influence governments around the world today, with its core values of justice, equality, and individual freedom.