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Take the Constitution Challenge!
September 17 is Constitution Day! On that day in 1787, representatives from the states signed the U.S. Constitution. That document explains how the U.S. government would be set up. Later, a list of Americans’ basic rights was added. Check out the infographics and answer the two questions.
New Nation
The Granger Collection, New York
At the time the Constitution was written, there were only 13 states.
The Constitution’s writers met in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. That city was once our nation’s capital. The meeting is known as the Constitutional Convention.
Question 1: Where was the Constitution written?
Three Branches
The Constitution set up three branches, or parts, of the U.S. government. They have different powers.
iStockPhoto/Getty Images
The U.S. Capitol
LEGISLATIVE: This branch is made up of Congress, which meets in the U.S. Capitol. Congress makes America’s laws.
The Supreme Court building
JUDICIAL: This branch is headed by nine justices, or judges. They meet at the Supreme Court building to review our nation’s laws.
Shutterstock.com
The White House
EXECUTIVE: This branch enforces our nation’s laws. It’s headed by the U.S. president, who lives at the White House.
1775 to 1783: Americans fight the Revolutionary War to win their freedom from Great Britain.
May 1787: Leaders meet to plan the new U.S. government.
September 1787: The Constitution is finally finished. Thirty-nine people sign it.
June 1788: The Constitution is ratified, or approved, by the states. It officially becomes the law of the land.
December 1791: The Bill of Rights is added to the Constitution. It lists Americans’ rights, like freedom of speech.
Today: The Constitution still governs the U.S. Over time, people have changed it or added to it 27 times. These changes are called amendments.
Question 2: When was the U.S. Constitution approved by the states?