Topic > The Constitution of the United States

The Constitution of the United States established our government and the laws we have today and also promised basic rights for its citizens. In 1787, delegates from twelve states met to try to find something to strengthen the Articles of Confederation. All the delegates wanted was to develop a way that could make our government more powerful. But at the same time, the “peasants” of the new U.S. Constitution wanted to limit government power and protect the rights of citizens. In 1789, the United States Constitution was ratified and has been the centerpiece of our government ever since. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay The constitution establishes strict laws and limits that everyone must obey. In Document 1 it is stated that each state will be obliged to comply with it regardless of the laws established in that particular state. Further stating that all persons in government office are bound by oath to uphold the constitution. Laws show people how to act and our rights, but they also show US leaders the boundaries of their power. Document 2 specifically indicates the tasks of the Three Branches of the Federal Government. 1st branch of government: Congress has the power to create laws, raise taxes, charge money, declare war, etc. 2nd Branch of Government: The President of the United States has the power to pardon federal lawbreakers, appoint federal judges and other officials, negotiate treaties with foreign nations, etc. Finally, the third branch of federal government courts has the power to interpret and rule on laws and to interpret and govern the actions of the other branches. We have created a strong national (federal) government within the boundaries and rules set forth in the Constitution. Two methods included in the Constitution to limit the power of the national government are the separation of powers. Document 3 discusses the separation of powers which gives each branch a set of rules and limits on power. With these boundaries set the branches should not trample each other. So each branch knows what it should and shouldn't do. With these two methods you limit the power of the government and still maintain the rights of US citizens. Document 5 lists the first 10 Bills of Rights. The Bill of Rights guarantees the rights of U.S. citizens. Some rights listed include freedom of speech, assembly and religion. The Bill of Rights was the cornerstone of basic American freedom. The First Ten Amendments limit the power of the United States federal government and protect the rights of all citizens, residents, and visitors to the United States. The First Amendment to the Constitution states: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or restrict freedom of speech or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances,” this states that our liberty should not be jeopardized in any way by anyone. The 13th and 15th Amendments also talk about racism; no skin color should affect your rights as a human being. These amendments ban slavery and the right to vote, regardless of race. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Without the Constitution we the people would not have any of the rights we have today. In government, boundaries and rules are established to maintain peace, for the people and for the officials. There.