The United States Constitution and Bill of Rights (1787-1789) is a
foundational document of American democracy. Written by delegates
attending the Constitutional Convention, a gathering intended to revise
the system of government established under the Articles of
Confederation, The Constitution of the United States was ratified in
1788 before becoming effecting in 1789. Nearly two and a half centuries
old, it is the oldest continually enforced national constitution in the
world. The United States Bill of Rights, containing the first ten
amendments to the Constitution, was ratified in 1791, codifying into law
the essential individual rights and freedoms of Americans, setting
limitations on government power, and diverting powers not specifically
granted to Congress to the states and citizens. "We the People."
Beginning with these words affirming the democratic aspirations of the
nation, The Constitution of the United States defines the foundational
organization and function of the federal government. Despite being
amended 27 times since its ratification and enforcement, The
Constitution of the United States is seen as essential to the American
system of government and political representation. Based on several
earlier documents, including the Virginia Declaration of Rights (1776)
and the English Magna Carta (1215), The United States Bill of Rights
adds to the original Constitution--which focuses primarily on the
organization and function of the federal government--certain protections
and specifications targeting the rights of individual Americans,
important safeguards determining the reach of the federal government and
ensuring the states and the people are proportionately empowered. The
First Amendment, perhaps the most recognizable, guarantees freedom of
religion, speech, press, and assembly, as well as the right of every
citizen to petition the government without fear of reprisal or
punishment. With a beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset
manuscript, this edition of The United States Constitution and Bill of
Rights is a classic of American political history reimagined for modern
readers.
