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Constitution Paper

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Constitution Paper
Constitution Paper
Lorraine Pflugler
HIS/110
September, 17, 2012
Jason Hatter

Constitution Paper
In this paper I will discuss how the Constitution addressed the weaknesses in the Article of Confederation, how the Constitution addressed the complaints in the Declaration of Independence, as well as speaking about the Great Compromise and how representation of states in Congress is determined. I will also go into some detail about the Bill of rights.
The Constitution is a legal binding document that explains how the government works. It creates presidency and congress as well as the Supreme Court. The United States has operated under two constitutions. On March 1, 1781 the Articles of confederation was in effect. On June 21, 1788 the Constitution came into effect. These two constitutions have a lot in common but, there are more differences then there are similarities if one looks at the details. The Constitution addressed the weaknesses in the Articles of Confederation by allowing the government to take on certain powers. The delegates did not want the power to be controlled by one man. They did this so there would be little jeopardy of tyranny or dictatorship. The group decided to separate the government into branches of three, the judicial, executive, and legislative branch. The executive branch is controlled by the president. This allows the leader to carry out federal laws and also allows him to recommend new ones. The authority contains directing government, commanding the armed forces, acting as chief law enforcement, dealing with international powers, and vetoing laws. The judicial branch is controlled by the Supreme Court. Its authority allows the Supreme Court to review laws, interpret the Constitution, and decide cases involving states rights. Lastly, the legislative, controlled by Congress, which includes House of Representatives and the Senate, has the power to pass laws, originate spending bills, impeaching officials, and approving treaties.


References: The Congressional Center, (2008). Constitution. Retrieved from http://www.congressforkids.net/Constitution_billofrights.htm Hornberger, J, (2001). The Declaration and The Constitution. Retrieved from http://www.fff.org/freedom/0501a.asp The Congressional Center, (2008). The Great Compromise. Retrieved from http://www.congressforkids.net/Constitution_greatcompromise.htm
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