The U.S. Constitution

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A constitution is a written document that sets forth the fundamental rules by which a society is governed. Throughout the course of history the United States has lived under two Constitutions since the British-American colonies declared their independence from Great Britain in 1776. First in line was the Articles of Confederation (1789-1789) followed by the Constitution of United States of America (1789-present). The Articles of Confederation was the first formal written Constitution of America that specified how the national government was to operate. Unfortunately, the Articles did not last long. Under the words of the Article’s power was limited; Congress could make decisions, but had no power to enforce them. Also the articles stated that Congress was denied the power of taxation meaning the national government was given no money to regulate federal spending. Money could only be requested from the states and states had the ability to not guarantee the request. Among the lack of enforcement and taxation was the denied power to regulate commerce trade for the national government in other words the federal government could not build a strong economy. All these factors and others included lead to the fall of the Articles of Confederation. Guiding towards Constitutional Convention, where the present day Constitution was written and signed by 38 of the 41 delegates present on September 17, 1787. This paper discusses why the Founding Father’s designed the Constitution as they did and how this design has affected our system today. On September 17, 1787, the United States of America had a newly second Constitution. The constitution was designed to serve the interests of the people [Americans]—the rich and the poor, Northerners and Sou... ... middle of paper ... ...ent branches of government to separate and balance power in the national government. Affecting our day-to-day lives in court cases, Presidential elections, and power over the Presidential control, etc. The Constitution really is the most marvelous work of mankind. Works Cited 1. 15, December. "The Constitution of the United States of America." Almanac of Policy Issues. June 2004. Web. 15 Apr. 2011. . 2. "Comparing the Articles and the Constitution - The U.S. Constitution Online - USConstitution.net." Index Page - The U.S. Constitution Online - USConstitution.net. Ed. Steven Mount. 24 Jan. 2010. Web. 15 Apr. 2011. . 3. Unknown. "The Constitution - Amendments." President Elect. 2002. Web. 15 Apr. 2011. .

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