The constitutional guidelines

The Constitution of the United States: A Guide for the People


What Is the Constitution?

The Constitution is the supreme law of the land. Ratified in 1788, it established a federal government grounded in the principle that power is derived from the people. It is a written framework designed to limit government, protect liberty, and preserve justice.

“We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union…”



These words enshrine the idea that the government exists by the will and authority of its citizens.


The Three Branches of Government

The Constitution divides power among three separate but equal branches to prevent tyranny and ensure balance.



Legislative Branch – Article I

Vested in the Congress, consisting of the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Responsible for making laws, declaring war, taxing, and regulating commerce.

Holds the sole power to impeach and try federal officials.


Executive Branch – Article II

Vested in the President of the United States.

Responsible for enforcing laws, commanding the armed forces, and conducting foreign affairs.

Can veto legislation and appoint federal officers with Senate approval.


Judicial Branch – Article III

Vested in the Supreme Court and other federal courts.

Interprets the law and ensures laws and executive actions conform to the Constitution.

Has the power of judicial review through precedent.        
                                                Foundational Principles

The Constitution is governed by several guiding principles.

Separation of Powers
Each branch has distinct responsibilities, preventing consolidation of power.


Checks and Balances
Each branch can limit the others—for example, the President can veto laws, Congress can override vetoes and impeach officials, and the courts can strike down unconstitutional acts.


Federalism
Power is shared between the national government and the states, allowing local control while maintaining national unity.

Rule of Law
No one is above the law—not even the President or Congress. All actions must align with the Constitution.



The Bill of Rights

Ratified in 1791, the first ten amendments guarantee individual liberties and limit government intrusion.


1. Freedom of speech, religion, press, petition, and assembly


2. Right to bear arms


3. No quartering of soldiers in peacetime


4. Freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures


5. Protection against self-incrimination and double jeopardy; due process


6. Right to a fair and speedy trial by jury


7. Right to trial by jury in civil cases


8. No cruel or unusual punishment


9. Rights retained by the people, even if not listed


10. Powers not delegated to the federal government are reserved to the states or the people




Amending the Constitution – Article V

The Framers provided a path for lawful change.

An amendment can be proposed by two-thirds of both Houses of Congress or two-thirds of state legislatures through a constitutional convention.

It must be ratified by three-fourths of the states.


This ensures the people retain their right to adapt government without revolution.


The People’s Authority

The Constitution is rooted in popular sovereignty. The people:

Elect their representatives

Hold the right to petition and protest

Can call for amendments

Are guaranteed protection under the Constitution at all times



The Declaration of Independence

Before the Constitution, the Founders declared the reasons for separation from British rule in 1776.

“That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed…”



This Declaration lays the moral foundation for the Constitution, affirming that the legitimacy of government is contingent on its protection of individual rights and the will of the People,

The Constitution is more than a charter of laws—it is a covenant of liberty. Crafted with wisdom, designed for endurance, and amendable by the will of the governed, it reminds us that true authority in a republic rests not in offices or parties, but always in the people.