Anatomy of the Constitution
Evan Bellamy - Civic Block 4
Articles of the Constitution
The Preamble
The Articles
Article II: The second Article explains what the executive branch is and how each member, including the President, is elected. The length of the term, 4 years, with the possibility of holding the office for 2 terms, is established in this Article as well. The Article outlines the duties of the President which include being the Commander-in-Chief, the right to make treaties, and the power to grant pardons.
Article III: Article III explains how the judicial branch is established. This Article created the Supreme Court, the national and highest court. It also explains how the judicial branch shall interpret the laws and make their rulings.
Article IV: Article IV explains the relationship of all of the states in the United States. The article sets a foundation for the admission of a new state, but says that no state shall be formed inside of another state's existing boundary. Every state is also entitled to their own state government.
Article V: Article V explains how the U.S. Constitution can be amended. It is necessary for two-thirds of the house to vote in favor of the amendment or two-thirds of the states to call for a convention. A three-fourths vote is then necessary to ratify the amendment.
Article VI: Article VI establishes that the Constitution is the highest ruling document and governing law in the United States. Federal officers, including judges, the president, and lawmakers all must abide by the laws. Article VI also says that any debts owed by the States are still in effect after the ratification of the Constitution.
Article VII: Article VII explains the steps of the ratification of the U.S. Constitution. Nine of the thirteen states were needed in order for the Constitution to be ratified.
Lazy Elephants Jump Slowly And Sit Regularly.
L - Legislative Branch
E - Executive Branch
J - Judicial Branch
S - States
A - Amendments
S - Supremacy
R - Ratification