The Constitution
Our New Government
What is The Constitution?
Articles
Preamble- Constitution's Purpose
Article 1- Legislature: House of representatives, Senate
Article 2- Executive: President, Vice President
Article 3- Judiciary: Surpreme Court
Article 4- Duties states have
Article 5- How Constitution can be changed
Article 6- United States is responsible for all debts while under Articles of Confederation
Article 7- Ratifications or approvals needed for Constitution to take effect
Bill of Rights
I. Freedom of speech, press, religion, and petition
II. Right to keep and bear arms
III. Citizens do not have to house soldiers.
IV. No unreasonable search or arrest.
V. No double jeopardy or no witness against yourself.
VI. Rights of accused in criminal cases.
VII. Right to a trial by jury
VIII. No excessive bail or cruel punishment.
IX. People get rights not listed in Constitution.
X. Any rights not given to federal government are given to the states and people.
Differences from Articles of Confederation
Articles of Confederation: State could only control
Constitution: Federal government can levy taxes
Amending documents-
Articles of Confederation: Has to be fully unanimous
Constitution: 2/3 in Congress and 3/4 state legislatures
Commerce-
Articles of Confederation: No federal control of trade
Constitution: Controlled by Congress
State Representation-
Articles of Confederation: Every state gets 1 vote
Constitution: Senate gets 2 votes per state, House of Rep is based on population
Raising an Army-
Articles of Confederation: Congress can't draft, completely state dependent
Constitution: Congress can raise an army
Passing Laws-
Articles of Confederation: 9/13 must approve
Constitution: 50% +1 (simple majority) plus President's signature