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.
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The Rules of Our Land
Watch a video to learn more about the U.S. Constitution.
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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.
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The U.S. Capitol
LEGISLATIVE: This branch is made up of Congress, which meets in the U.S. Capitol. Congress makes America’s laws.
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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.
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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.
Question 2: When was the U.S. Constitution approved by the states?
videos
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Text-to-Speech