US Constitution Overview and Amendments

The introduction to the US Constitution outlining its purpose and goals. Think of it as the 'mission statement' of the document.

The part of the Constitution that outlines the structure and powers of the legislative branch of the US government: Congress, which makes the laws.

A clause that establishes that the US Constitution is the highest law of the land, superseding state and local laws.

The set of rights guaranteed to all US citizens, including freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and the right to petition the government.

The first 10 amendments to the US Constitution, added in 1791. These amendments protect essential rights and freedoms.

The Supreme Court is the highest court in the United States, responsible for interpreting laws and determining if they are constitutional.

The Supreme Court is made up of nine justices, each with a lifetime appointment.

The President nominates Supreme Court justices, and the Senate confirms them.

A precedent is a legal decision that sets a standard for future cases with similar issues. The Supreme Court creates these precedents.

The Supreme Court has the power to review laws and determine if they are constitutional. This is called judicial review.

The President's top advisors, who help him make decisions and carry out his policies.

The head of the U.S. government, responsible for enforcing the laws. They must be a U.S. citizen by birth, be at least 35 years old, and win the majority of electoral votes to be elected.

The President can reject laws passed by Congress, preventing them from becoming law.

The Vice President is one of the two highest officials in the U.S., second only to the President. They are responsible for leading the Senate, a part of Congress that makes laws.