What Is the Constitution?

The United States Constitution is not just a document.

It is a living contract, signed over two centuries ago, that still governs how power is used, who gets to use it, and how the rights of the people are protected.

It is the highest law of the land, above Congress, above the President, and above any court—including the Supreme Court, which only exists because the Constitution says so.

A Government of Laws, Not of Men

Before the Constitution, governments were based on rulers—kings, tyrants, or mobs.

The Founders declared a new idea:

“We the People” would be the source of all political power.

The Constitution was designed to limit government so that it would serve, not oppress, the people.

Structure of Power

The Constitution created three branches of government:

1. Legislative (Congress) – makes laws

2. Executive (President) – enforces laws

3. Judicial (Courts) – interprets laws

This separation of powers was designed to prevent tyranny by making sure no one branch becomes too powerful.

Checks and Balances

Each branch can check the others:

• Congress can impeach a President

• The President can veto Congress

• Courts can strike down unconstitutional laws

• The Senate must confirm judges and treaties

This system creates tension by design, forcing the government to slow down and respect the Constitutionbefore acting.

A Living Document

The Constitution can be amended—but only through a careful and difficult process.

This allows it to grow and change over time, but only with broad national agreement.

• 27 Amendments have been added since 1789

• The first ten are known as the Bill of Rights

The Constitution and Justice

The Constitution is often called a justice document because it:

• Limits the power of government over individuals

• Creates courts to resolve disputes peacefully

• Protects freedoms like speech, religion, and due process

• Demands equal protection under the law

But justice is not automatic. It must be fought for, interpreted, and sometimes corrected when applied unfairly.

A Tool for the People

The Constitution was never meant to protect only the powerful.

It is meant to be used by the people—to challenge injustice, to demand accountability, and to defend liberty.

As Frederick Douglass said,

“The Constitution is a glorious liberty document—if properly interpreted.”

Thought Questions

• Should the Constitution be interpreted as it was written in 1787—or as it applies today?

• Who should decide what justice means under the Constitution?

• Can a document written by flawed men create a just system for all?

Next Lesson Preview:

Lesson 2 – The Bill of Rights: Freedom or Illusion?