United States Constitution

By Jeremy Nelson

A short introduction to an official document.

We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect A nation formed by the combining of two or more states that were previously separate and independent., To set up; to make firm or permanent. The virtue or principle of treating everyone fairly., To make sure; to guard against loss or danger. Pertaining to the home or family; pertaining to one's own country and its internal affairs (such as between states or citizens); not foreign. A condition of peace or calmness., To make plans, preparations, or arrangements for in advance. the General; pertaining to the people at large; shared by all (in this case, all the states). Means of protection against attack by foreign enemies., To encourage, advance, or help move forward. the Common to all; pertaining to the whole body of citizens (in this case, the entire nation); not limited in application (such as to a single area, class, or person). Happiness; prosperity; well-being., and To safeguard or protect; to make certain. the Blessings of Freedom from unjust restraint or control; freedom to do as one chooses within the bounds of just laws. to ourselves and our Children; future generations., do To appoint, decree, or enact; to set in order. and establish this An established form of government; a system of basic rules and principles that determine how a state or nation is organized and governed. (A constitution is of higher authority than any law enacted by a legislature. In the United States, all laws, treaties, and court decisions must be in harmony with the Constitution, and all federal and state officials are required to support the Constitution. See II.1.8; VI.2-3.) for the United States of America.

A distinct part of an official document. I - The Legislative Branch

Section 1 - All law making power in 2 houses, Senate and House of Representatives

All Authority to enact laws. (In this case, federal laws.) In this document. (That is, in this Constitution. See primarily I.8.) Given, allowed, or bestowed. (In this case, given by the people to the federal government.) shall be Placed in the possession or control of; legally given to. a An assembly of delegates who meet to discuss and act on important matters concerning the people they represent (in this case, the citizens of the United States); the highest legislative body of a nation. of the United States, which shall To be formed, made up, or composed of. a Senate and House of Representatives.

Section 2 - House of Representatives
  1. Two-year terms; election of members.
    The House of Representatives shall To be formed or made up of; to consist of. Members chosen every second Year by the People of the several States, and the Qualified voters. in each State shall have the Qualifications (Pronounced REK-wuh-zit.) Necessary or essential. for Electors of the The legislative chamber containing the largest number of members. of the The lawmaking body of a state government..
  2. Qualifications for House of Representatives
    No Person shall be a A member of the U.S. House of Representatives, elected by the people of his or her state to represent them in making laws for the United States. (Also called a Congressman or Congresswoman.) who shall not have Reached; achieved; arrived at. the Age of twenty-five Years, and been seven Years a A person who owes allegiance to a government and is entitled to its protection. (See Amendment 14, section 1. In the United States, citizens have the privilege and duty of voting in public elections, serving on juries, and otherwise maintaining our system of free government.) of the United States, and who shall not, when elected, be an A person who lives permanently in a certain place. of that State in which he shall be chosen.
  3. Representatives and taxes apportioned by population
    [Representatives and Taxes charged directly against individuals, their property, or their income (as opposed to indirect taxes, which are imposed on purchased goods rather than on people). shall be Divided, assigned, or distributed. among the several States which may be included within (That is, the United States.), according to (That is, the populations of the individual states.), which shall be Decided, found out, or settled. by adding to the whole Number of free Persons, including Free persons who bind or obligate themselves by contract to work for someone else for a certain period of time, usually in return for housing, food, and payment of other expenses. (Sometimes called indentured servants.), and Not including; with the exception of. Indians not Charged or required to pay taxes., three  fifths of all (That is, slaves.).]amd The actual A counting or numbering. (In this case, a census, or a count of the population.) shall be made within three Years after the first Meeting of the Congress of the United States, and within every A period of time afterward. (In this case, after the first census is taken.) of ten Years, in such Form; method; way. as (That is, the Congress.) shall by Law direct. The number of Representatives shall not To surpass or go beyond; to be greater than. one for every thirty Thousand, but each State shall have at Least one Representative; [and until such enumeration shall be made, the state of New Hampshire shall To have a right or claim. to chuse three, Massachusetts eight, The official name of the state of Rhode Island, from the uniting of two early settlements on Aquidneck (later Rhode) Island with two others on the mainland. (One of the mainland settlements, Providence, is now the state capital.) one, Connecticut five, New York six, New Jersey four, Pennsylvania eight, Delaware one, Maryland six, Virginia ten, North Carolina five, South Carolina five, and Georgia three][The words in brackets have been obsolete since 1793.].
  4. Filling vacancies
    When Instances of a public office being left vacant or unoccupied (due to death, resignation, etc.). happen in the RThe elected officials representing the voters, spoken of as a group. from any State, the The officer who executes or carries into effect the laws of a particular government. (In this case, the governor.) Of the thing previously mentioned. (That is, of shall To send out, put forth, or distribute. Official documents ordering that elections be held (usually in cases of an unexpected vacancy in a public office). to fill such Vacancies.
  5. Officers; power of impeachment
    The House of Representatives shall chuse their The presiding officer in some lawmaking bodies. and other Officers; and shall have the Independent; acting without assistance or interference from others. Power of A formal charge or accusation of misconduct in public office. (In the national government, such a charge may be made against an officer of the executive or judicial branch. See I.3.6-7; II.4.).

Section 3 - Senate

  1. Senate membership, terms of office
    The Senate of the United States shall To be formed or made up of; to consist of. two Senators from each State, [chosen by the An organized body of people having authority to make laws. Of the thing or things previously mentioned. (That is, of amd for six Years; and each Senator shall have one Vote.
  2. 1/3 elected every 2 years; Filling Vacancies
    Immediately after (That is, the Senate.) shall be Convened; gathered together in a meeting. As a result of. the first Election, they shall be divided as equally as may be into three Groups, categories, or divisions.. The Seats of the Senators of the first Class shall be Given up; made vacant or unoccupied. at the End; termination. of the second Year, of the second Class at the Expiration of the fourth Year, and of the third Class at the Expiration of the sixth Year, so that one third may be chosen every second Year; [and if Instances of a public office being left vacant or unoccupied (due to death, resignation, etc.). happen by The act of quitting or voluntarily giving up a position., or In a different way; by other means., during the A temporary stop in business, often for rest or relaxation. of the Legislature of any State, the The officer who executes or carries into effect the laws of a particular government. (In this case, the governor.) thereof may make Lasting for a limited time. Official acts of naming or appointing persons to public office. until the next Meeting of the Legislature, which shall then fill such Vacancies]amd.
  3. Qualifications
    No Person shall be a A member of the U.S. Senate, elected by the people of his or her state to represent them in making laws for the United States. (Until 1913, Senators were appointed by the state legislatures to represent the state governments. See I.3.1; Amendment 17.) who shall not have Reached; achieved; arrived at. the Age of thirty Years, and been nine Years a A person who owes allegiance to a government and is entitled to its protection. (Click to see Amendment 14, section 1.) of the United States, and who shall not, when elected, be an A person who lives permanently in a certain place. of that State for which he shall be chosen.
  4. President of the Senate
    The Vice President of the United States shall be President of the Senate, but shall have no Vote, unless (That is, the Senate.) be Tied; having an equal number of votes on both sides of an issue..
  5. Other officers
    The Senate shall chuse their other Officers, and also a President (Pronounced pro TEM-puh-ree. From Latin; in the Absence of the Vice President, or when (That is, the Vice President.) shall To carry out; to perform the duties of. the Office of President of the United States.
  6. Trials of impeachment
    The Senate shall have the Independent; acting without assistance or interference from others. Power to To examine or investigate as a judge; to conduct a trial of. all Formal charges or accusations of misconduct in public office. (In the national government, such charges may be made against an officer of the executive or judicial branch. See I.2.5; II.4.). When Assembled; in session. for that Purpose, they shall be on OA solemn declaration by an individual (such as in a court of law) that involves calling upon God to witness the truth of what one says. or A solemn declaration that may be made in place of an oath and often results in legal penalties if the statement is found to be false.. When the President of the United States is tried, the The highest judge in the United States; the presiding officer of the U.S. Supreme Court. (Click to see III.1.) shall To act as president or chairman; to direct, control, or govern. And no Person shall be Proven or found guilty of some crime or misconduct. without the Agreement, consent, or unity of opinion. of two thirds of the Members In attendance at the time..
  7. Penalty of impeachment convictions
    The sentence or penalty pronounced by a judge or court of law. in Lawsuits, accusations, or legal questions brought before a judge or court of law for decision. (In this case, before the U.S. Senate.) of Impeachment shall not To stretch out or reach; to apply. further than to The act of removing, dismissing, or taking away (someone). from A position of responsibility or authority in government., and The act of declaring someone to be unfit or ineligible. to hold and enjoy any Office of Rank, distinction, or recognition., Trust or Gain, benefit, or financial reward. under the United States: but the A person or group taking one side in a dispute. convicted shall Notwithstanding; in spite of what was previously stated. be Legally bound or responsible; exposed or subject to some unfavorable event. and Under the authority or control of. (Pronounced in-DITE-munt.) A formal, written charge of criminal misconduct presented to a court of law, usually by a grand jury. (A grand jury is a body of twelve to twenty-three citizens appointed to examine criminal accusations to decide whether there is enough evidence to require a public trial.), Trial, Judgment, and Punishment, according to Law.

Section 4 - Elections and meetings for both houses

  1. Regulation of elections
    The Times, Places and MForm; method; way. of holding Elections for Members of the U.S. Senate, elected by the people to represent them in making laws for the United States. (Until 1913, Senators were appointed by the state legislatures to represent the state governments. See Article I Section 3 Clause 1; Amendment 17.) and Members of the U.S. House of Representatives, elected by the people to represent them in making laws for the United States. (Also called Congressmen or Congresswomen. See Article I Section 2.) shall be Ordered, directed, or laid down as a rule. in each State by the Legislature Of the thing previously mentioned. (That is, of ; but the Congress may at any time by Law make or To change or make different. such Rules or orders having the force of law., except as to the places of chusing Senators.
  2. Congress to meet annually
    The Congress shall To meet or come together; to convene. at least once in every Year, and such Meeting shall be [on the first Monday in December,]amd unless (That is, the Congress.) shall by Law appoint a different Day.

Section 5 - Rules for Each House

  1. Organization and independence of each house of Congress
    Each A chamber or division of Congress. (That is, either the Senate or the House of Representatives.) shall be the Judge of the Elections, A report or official declaration of the results of an election. and Conditions that a person must meet before being considered fit or eligible for a certain privilege. of its own Members, and a A number greater than half of the total. of (That is, each house of Congress.) shall To form, compose, or make up. a The number of members of an organized body sufficient to conduct business (usually a majority). to do business; but a smaller Number may To close a meeting or session of a public body, usually until some later time. from day to day, and may be Given legal power or authority; empowered. to To force; to require. the Attendance of absent Members, in such Form; method; way. and under such Penalties as each House may To agree upon; to arrange for; to establish or require..
  2. Rules of proceedings
    Each House may To decide or settle. the Rules of its A course of events or transactions., punish its Members for Conduct that violates law or established rules of order., and, with the Agreement, consent, or unity of opinion. of two thirds, To drive out; to command or force to leave. a Member.
  3. Journals of each house
    Each House shall keep a A record of daily events or transactions. of its Proceedings, and from time to time To announce or make known to the public; to put in print for public distribution. The same thing previously mentioned. (That is, , Except; excluding; taking or leaving out. such Parts as may in their Judgment require Secrecy; and the Affirmative ( of the Members of either House on any A matter being decided by vote. shall, at the Desire of one fifth of those In attendance at the time., be Included or written in. the Journal.
  4. Restrictions on Adjournment
    Neither House, during the The period of time during which a legislature or other public body meets to conduct official business. of Congress, shall, without the Approval or agreement. of the other, adjourn for more than three days, nor to any other Place than that in which the two Houses shall be Holding a session for official business..

Section 6 - Privileges and Restrictions

  1. Pay and Privileges
    The Members of the U.S. Senate, elected by the people to represent them in making laws for the United States. (Until 1913, Senators were appointed by the state legislatures to represent the state governments. See I.3.1; Amendment 17.) and Members of the U.S. House of Representatives, elected by the people to represent them in making laws for the United States. (Also called Congressmen or Congresswomen. See I.2.) shall receive a Payment. for their Services, to be Defined; made sure. by Law, and paid out of the A place where public funds are deposited, kept, and paid out. of the United States. They shall in all Cases, except The crime of betraying one's own country by trying to overthrow its government or by giving help to its enemies. (See III.3.1.), A very serious crime (such as murder, rape, or robbery), often punished by imprisonment, by the loss of civil rights (such as the right to vote or hold public office), or even by death. and A violation of the public peace by fighting, rioting, or some other illegal disturbance., be Protected; exempt; not subject to the usual rules or penalties. from The act of being taken or held by officers of the law. during their Attendance at the The period of time during which a legislature or other public body meets to conduct official business. of their Individual; separate. Chambers or divisions of Congress. (That is, the Senate and the House of Representatives.), and in going to and returning from the same; and for any Speech or An argument; a formal discussion on opposing sides of a question. in either House, they shall not be Examined by questions; legally challenged. in any other Place.
  2. Prohibitions
    No Senator or Representative shall, during the Time for which he was elected, be appointed to any A nonmilitary position of responsibility or authority in government. under the Authority of the United States, which shall have been created, or the Wages, salary, or income resulting from employment. Of which. shall have been increased during such time; and no person holding any Office under the United States, shall be a Member of either House during his The time during which something lasts or continues. in Office.

Section 7 - The Lawmaking Process

  1. Revenue bills to originate in House
    All Proposed laws presented to a legislature for their vote. for Collecting or obtaining. Tax money and other income that a government collects and receives into the treasury for public use. shall To begin; to come into existence. in the House of Representatives; but the Senate may To recommend or suggest. or To agree. with Additions, corrections, or other changes in wording. as on other Bills.
  2. How bills become law
    Every Bill which shall have To have been approved or enacted by vote. the House of Representatives and the Senate, shall, before it become a Law, be presented to the President of the United States; If he approve he shall sign it, but if not he shall return it, with his Reasons or arguments given in opposition. to that A chamber or division of Congress. (That is, the Senate or the House of Representatives.) in which it shall have originated, who shall To include or write in. the Objections In full; completely. on their A record of daily events or transactions. and To go forward; to begin and carry on an action. to To examine or evaluate again. it. If after such Reconsideration two thirds of that House shall agree to pass the Bill, it shall be sent, together with the Objections, to the other House, by which it shall In the same way; also. be reconsidered, and if approved by two thirds of that house, it shall become a Law. But in all such Events; situations; circumstances. the Votes of both Houses shall be Decided or settled. by Affirmative (, and the Names of the Persons voting for and against the Bill shall be entered on the Journal of each House Individually; separately.. If any Bill shall not be returned by the President within ten days (Sundays Not included.) after it shall have been presented to him, the Same shall be a Law, In the same way as if he had signed it, unless the Congress by their The closing of the session of a public body. To hinder or stop; to keep from happening. its Return, in which Case it shall not be a Law.
  3. How orders, resolutions become law
    Every A rule, regulation, or command., An official decision; a formal expression of opinion., or Vote to which the Concurrence of the Senate and House of Representatives may be necessary (except on a question of Adjournment) shall be presented to the President of the United States; and, before the Same shall take Effect, shall be approved by him, or being disapproved by him, shall be Approved or enacted again by the vote of a legislature. by two thirds of the Senate and House of Representatives, according to the Rules and Limitations Ordered, directed, or laid down as a rule. (See I.7.2.) in the case of a Bill.

Section 8 - Powers of Congress

The Congress shall have Power

  1. Collect taxes to pay debts and provide for common defense and general welfare
    To To charge or impose as a duty or burden. and collect Sums of money charged and collected by a government for public use., Taxes to be paid on imports, exports, or purchased goods., Taxes or duties, especially those to be paid on imported goods. and Taxes on the production or sale of goods, levied within a country rather than on articles imported from other lands., to pay the Amounts of money owed to others. and To make plans, preparations, or arrangements for in advance. the General; pertaining to the people at large; shared by all (in this case, all the states). Means of protection against attack by foreign enemies. and Common to all; pertaining to the whole body of citizens (in this case, the entire nation); not limited in application (such as to a single area, class, or person). Happiness; prosperity; well-being. of the United States; but all Duties, Imposts, and Excises shall be Not varying; the same; consistent. throughout the United States;
  2. Borrow money on credit of U.S.
    To borrow Money on the The trust or confidence placed in the ability of a person, organization, or country to pay its debts; financial trustworthiness. of the United States;
  3. Regulate Commerce
    To To adjust or direct by means of rules and regulations; to put in good order. Trading or buying and selling of goods. with Outside one's own country. (In this case, outside the United States.) Nations, and among the several States, and with the Indian Nations or large groups of families, often descended from the same ancestors.;
  4. Establish naturalization and bankruptcy laws
    To establish an uniform Rule of Naturalization, and uniform Laws on the subject of Bankruptcies throughout the United States;
  5. Coin money, regulate value, fix weights and Measures
    To coin Metal stamped into coins for use in commerce. (More recently, something used as a substitute for coins and generally accepted as a means of payment, such as bank notes or bills of credit.), regulate the Value Of the thing previously mentioned. (That is, of , and of foreign Coin, and To set or establish; to make firm or permanent. the SThe rule or measure by which other things are to be adjusted. of Weights and Measures;
  6. Punish for Counterfeiting
    To provide for the Punishment of Making a false copy of something valuable (such as money) for the purpose of cheating or stealing. the Printed notes, bonds, certificates, etc., that guarantee the payment of certain amounts of money to the persons who hold them. and Units of money presently accepted by law. of the United States;
  7. Establish Post Roads
    To establish Post Offices and Roads or highways on which mail is transported.;
  8. Establish Copyright and Patent laws
    To To encourage, advance, or help move forward. the Progress of Knowledge in general; understanding or mastery of any field of knowledge, gained through study of the facts, theories, or principles pertaining to that subject. (Science is often viewed as being different from art, which is skill in performing certain actions and is developed through practice. Thus the theory of music is a science, while the performance of it is an art.) and Skills, occupations, or fields of learning that mainly involve the use of the hands and the body, such as carpentry or sewing. (Also called industrial arts, mechanical arts, or trades. The useful arts are viewed as being different from the fine arts, such as poetry, music, and painting, which mainly involve the mind or imagination.) by Safeguarding or protecting; making certain. for limited Times to Authors and Inventors the The right to be the only one who may control something. (In this case, the reproduction, sale, or distribution of certain writings or discoveries.) to their Individual; separate. Writings and Discoveries;
  9. Establish Inferior Courts
    To To set up, appoint, or establish. Courts of justice. (See III.1.) Of a lower rank than. the The highest court of justice in the United States. (See III.1.);
  10. Define and Punish Felonies and Offenses
    To To determine or explain the meaning or limits of. and punish Robberies committed at sea. and Very serious crimes (such as murders, rapes, and robberies), often punished by imprisonment, by the loss of civil rights (such as the right to vote or hold public office), or even by death. committed on the high Seas, and Violations of law; crimes. against the A system of agreed-upon rules and customs governing the relations between civilized countries.;
  11. Declare War
    To To formally or publicly announce. War, To give, allow, or bestow. (Pronounced mark and rih-PRIZE-ul.) Government-issued licenses authorizing owners of private ships to capture enemy vessels or seize their goods during wartime. (Marque and reprisal have almost the same meaning, which is the use of force to retaliate for damage or loss caused by someone else.), and make Rules concerning Soldiers, ships, weapons, supplies, or other property captured in war. on Land and Water;
  12. Raise and support Armies
    To To make or form; to collect; to enlist. and To pay the costs of; to maintain. Armies, but no The act of assigning (something) to a particular use. of Money to that Use shall be for a longer A period of time. than two Years;
  13. Provide and maintain a Navy
    To To supply or make available; to establish or arrange for. and To pay the costs of; to support. a Navy;
  14. Make rules for Government and Regulate land and naval forces
    To make Rules for the The process of governing, directing, or controlling. and The process of putting (something) in good order by means of established rules. of the The armed forces on land and sea (such as the army, navy, etc.).;
  15. Call forth the Militia
    To To make plans, preparations, or arrangements for in advance. Bringing or summoning to action. the A nation's able-bodied men who are not enlisted in the regular armed forces but may be called into military service in an emergency. to To carry into effect. the Laws of the (That is, the United States.), To overpower, put down, or subdue. Instances of a group of citizens openly rising up against their government., and To drive back by force. Attacks by an enemy; instances of a hostile army entering a country to plunder or conquer it.;
  16. Organizing, Arming and Disciplining the Militia
    To provide for organizing, Furnishing or equipping with military weapons., and Bringing under control; subjecting to military regulations. the Militia, and for governing such Part of them as may be Used; occupied; engaged. in the Service of the United States, Retaining; keeping back; setting aside. to the States Individually; separately. the Appointment of the Officers, and the Authority of training the Militia according to the discipline Ordered, directed, or laid down as a rule. by Congress;
  17. Make exclusive legislation over Government Owned Property
    To To use; to engage in; to perform the duties of. The power to be the only lawmaking body. (In this case, to the exclusion of the state legislatures.), in all Events; situations; circumstances. Whatever; of any kind at all., over such A particular area or region. (In this case, the District of Columbia.) (not Surpassing or going beyond; being greater than. ten miles square) as may, by The act of surrendering or giving away something. of Single; individual. States, and the Acceptance of Congress, become the The place from which governmental authority is exercised (such as a capital city). of the United States, and to exercise The same or nearly the same. (As used here,  Authority over all Places Bought or legally obtained. (In this case, bought from the states by the federal government.) by the Approval or agreement. of the An organized body of people having authority to make laws. of the State in which The same thing or things previously mentioned. (That is, shall be, for the Construction or building. of Forts, Storehouses for military weapons, ammunition, and supplies., Yards or enclosures near harbors for the storage of naval materials and the construction or repair of ships., and other needful Buildings;-And
  18. Make laws for carrying out foregoing powers
    To make all Laws which shall be Required; essential; unavoidable. and Fitting; suitable; appropriate. for carrying into Execution the Preceding; listed or mentioned before. (That is, in I.8.1-17.) Powers, and all other Powers Placed in the possession or control of; legally given to. by this Constitution in the government of the United States, or in any Department or Officer Of the thing previously mentioned. (That is, of .

Section 9 - Powers forbidden to Congress

  1. Slavery not Prohibited before 1808
    The The act of moving from one country or place to another. or The act of importing or bringing in (something or someone) from a foreign country. of (That is, slaves.) any of the States now existing shall think proper to To allow to enter. shall not be Forbidden; made unlawful; ruled out. by the Congress Before. the Year one thousand eight hundred and eight, but a Tax or A tax to be paid on imports, exports, or purchased goods. may be Laid on or charged as a burden or penalty. on such Importation, not Surpassing or going beyond; being greater than. ten dollars for each Person.
  2. Writ of Habeas Corpus
    The A right or protection granted or secured by law. of the (Pronounced HAY-bee-us KOR-pus. From Latin; literally means shall not be Temporarily stopped or set aside., unless when in Events; situations; circumstances. of Open, armed resistance or revolt against the government. or An attack by an enemy; an instance of a hostile army entering a country to plunder or conquer it. the Pertaining to the government or the people at large. Safety may require it.
  3. No Bill of Attainder or Ex Post Facto Law
    No A law that accuses a person of a serious crime and imposes a penalty on him (usually death) without the benefit of a court trial. or ex post facto Law shall be Approved or enacted by vote. (In this case, a vote of Congress.).
  4. Direct Tax Prohibited
    No A tax on each [or other Any tax charged directly against an individual, his property, or his income (as opposed to an indirect tax, which is imposed on purchased goods rather than on people).]amd shall be Assessed, charged, or imposed as a duty or burden., unless (Apportioned or divided among the states) on the basis of each state's share or percentage of. (See I.2.3.) the A count of the population. or A counting or numbering. Earlier in this document. (That is, in this Constitution. See I.2.3.) directed to be taken.
  5. Import and Export Duties Prohibited Between States
    No Tax or A tax or fee to be paid on imports, exports, or purchased goods. shall be laid on Goods or commodities for sale. Sent away or transported to some other place. from any State.
  6. No preference in commerce for one state over another
    No The act of favoring or giving advantages to one over another. shall be given by any An instance of the government's adjusting or directing some activity by law. of Trading or buying and selling of goods. or Tax money and other income that a government collects and receives into the treasury for public use. to the Harbors where ships may anchor for safety from storms, or to load or unload their cargoes. of one State over those of another: nor shall Ships or boats. Going or intending to go. to, or from, one State, be Required, obligated, or forced. to To report the arrival or cargo of a ship to port authorities., To obtain permission from port authorities for a ship's departure., or pay Duties in another.
  7. How public money is spent
    No Money shall be Removed; taken out; withdrawn. from the A place where public funds are deposited, kept, and paid out. but As a result of. Acts of setting aside money for particular uses. made by law; and a regular Statement and A written record of financial transactions. of the Amounts received. and Amounts spent or paid out. of all Money collected and spent by the government on behalf of the people. shall be Announced or made known to the public; put in print for public distribution. from time to time.
  8. Titles of nobility prohibited
    No An official designation of rank (such as duke, earl, baron, etc.) that places a person in an aristocratic class above the common people. shall be Given, allowed, or bestowed. by the United States: And no Person holding any A position of responsibility or authority in government. of Gain, benefit, or financial reward. or Trust under (That is, the United States. Thus the phrase ending with this word refers to any position in the federal government.) shall, without the Approval or agreement. of the Congress, accept of any A gift., Payment; income; financial gain., Office, or Title, of any kind whatever, from any King, A king or ruler of a nation., or A nation or government outside the United States..

Section 10 - Powers Forbidden to States

  1. Absolute restrictions
    No State shall enter into any A formal agreement or contract between two or more governments. (See II.2.2.), A league or association of nations by treaty to further the interests they have in common., or A union of independent states or nations for mutual support.; To give, allow, or bestow. (See definition under I.8.11.); coin Metal stamped into coins for use in commerce. (More recently, something used as a substitute for coins and generally accepted as a means of payment, such as bank notes or bills of credit.); To send out; to issue or put into circulation. Written or printed notes, such as dollar bills, used as a substitute for money. (Sometimes called ; make any Thing but gold and silver Coin a An offer; something that is or may be offered. in Payment of Amounts of money owed to others.; To approve or enact by vote. (In this case, the vote of a state legislature.) any (See definition under I.9.3.)., (See definition under I.9.3.)., or Law Damaging, weakening, or making less. the A binding power or force; a legal or moral bond or duty. of Formal, legally binding agreements between two or more persons or organizations. or grant any An official designation of rank (such as duke, earl, baron, etc.) that places a person in an aristocratic class above the common people..
  2. Taxes on imports and exports restricted
    No State shall, without the Approval or agreement. of the Congress, To assess, charge, or impose as a duty or burden. any Taxes or duties, especially those to be paid on imported goods. or Taxes to be paid on imports, exports, or purchased goods. on Goods imported or brought in from a foreign country, usually for the purposes of trade. or Goods exported or sent out to a foreign country, usually for the purposes of trade., except what may be Completely. necessary for Carrying into effect. its Laws by which a state may inspect and control the quality and safety of commercial goods, especially imported goods. and the The tax revenues remaining after inspection costs are paid. of all Duties and Imposts, laid by any State on Imports or Exports, shall be for the Use of the A place where public funds are deposited, kept, and paid out. of the United States; and all such Laws shall be Under the authority or control of. the The act of reviewing and correcting. and Controul of the Congress.
  3. Other conditional restrictions
    No State shall, without the Consent of Congress, lay any A charge imposed on a commercial vessel for entering, remaining in, or leaving a port.; keep Soldiers; professional military forces (that is, a standing army as opposed to a militia). or Ships of War in time of Peace, enter into any Agreement or A contract or agreement between nations or states. with another State, or with a A nation or government outside the United States.; or To enter into; to begin and carry on; to take part in. War, unless actually Attacked by an enemy. or in such Impending; threatening; ready to take place. Danger as will not To allow or permit. delay.

Article II - The Executive Branch

Section 1 - The Office of President

  1. Executive power given; term of office
    The The authority to execute or carry into effect the law and to administer the government. (In this case, federal law and the national government.) shall be Placed in the possession or control of; legally given to. a President of the United States of America. He shall hold his A position of responsibility or authority in government. during the A designated period of time for which a person is elected or appointed to serve in public office. of four Years, and, together with the Vice President, chosen for the same Term, be elected as follows.
  2. Presidential electors
    Each state shall appoint, in such Form; method; way. as the An organized body of people having authority to make laws. Of the thing or things previously mentioned. (That is, of may direct, a Number of Qualified voters appointed by the states to elect the President and Vice President of the United States. (Together, these persons make up the equal to the whole Number of Members of the U.S. Senate, elected by the people to represent them in making laws for the United States. (Until 1913, Senators were appointed by the state legislatures to represent the state governments. See I.3.1; Amendment 17.) and Members of the U.S. House of Representatives, elected by the people to represent them in making laws for the United States. (Also called Congressmen or Congresswomen. See I.2.) to which the State may To have a right or claim. (See I.2.3; I.3.1.) in the Congress: but no Senator or Representative, or Person holding an Office of Trust or Gain, benefit, or financial reward. under the United States, shall be appointed an elector.
  3. Original method of electing the President and Vice President
    [The Electors shall meet in their Individual; separate. States, and vote by A sheet of paper used to cast a secret vote. for two Persons, of whom one at least shall not be an A person who lives permanently in a certain place. of the same State with (That is, the electors.). And they shall make a List of all the Persons voted for, and of the Number of Votes for each; which List they shall sign and To declare or affirm in writing to be true or genuine., and To send. Closed or fastened (such as with wax or some other seal); affixed with an official seal (a stamp or other device used to certify that a signature or document is authentic). to the The place from which governmental authority is exercised (such as a capital city). of the United States, directed to the (See I.3.4-5.). The President of the Senate shall, in the Presence of the Senate and House of Representatives, open all the Certified documents. (In this case, the electoral ballots.), and the Votes shall then be counted. The Person having the greatest Number of Votes shall be the President, if such Number be a A number greater than half of the total. of the whole Number of Electors appointed; and if there be more than one who have such Majority, and have an equal Number of Votes, then the House of Representatives shall immediately chuse by Ballot one of them for President; and if no Person have a Majority, then from the five highest on the List the (That is, the House of Representatives.) shall In the same way. chuse the President. But in chusing the President, the Votes shall be taken by States, the The elected officials representing the voters, spoken of as a group. from each State having one Vote; A The number of members of an organized body sufficient to conduct business. for this Purpose shall To be formed, made up, or composed of. a Member or Members from two thirds of the States, and a Majority of all the States shall be necessary to a Choice. In every Event; situation; circumstance., after the Choice of the President, the Person having the greatest Number of Votes of the Electors shall be the Vice President. But if there should remain two or more who have equal Votes, the Senate shall chuse from them by Ballot the Vice President.]amd
  4. Time of elections
    The Congress may To decide or settle. the Time of chusing the Electors, and the Day on which they shall give their Votes; which Day shall be the same throughout the United States.
  5. Qualifications of the President
    No person except a Born in the United States or one of its territories. A person who owes allegiance to a government and is entitled to its protection. (See Amendment 14, section 1.), or a Citizen of the United States, at the time of the The act of formally accepting and putting into effect. of this Constitution, shall be Legally qualified for. the Office of President; neither shall any person be eligible to that Office who shall not have Reached; achieved; arrived at. the Age of thirty five Years, and been fourteen Years a A person who lives in a place permanently or for some period of time. within the United States.
  6. Replacing the President
    [In Case of the The act of removing, dismissing, or taking away (someone). of the President from Office, or of his Death, The act of quitting or voluntarily giving up a position., or Lack of ability. to To perform or carry out. the Powers and Duties of the (That is, the office of President.), The same thing previously mentioned. (That is, the shall To pass on to; to be transferred or handed down to. the Vice President, and the Congress may by Law To make plans or arrangements for in advance. the Case of Removal, Death, Resignation, or Inability, both of the President and Vice President, Formally or publicly stating or announcing. (In this case, by enacting a law or laws.) what Officer shall then act as President, and such Officer shall act In accordance with what has been stated. (That is, until the Lack of ability or legal qualification. be removed, or a President shall be elected.]amd
  7. The President’s salary
    The President shall, (That is, according to a schedule set by Congress.), receive for his Services, a Payment., which shall neither be increased nor Reduced; made less or smaller. during the Period for which he shall have been elected, and he shall not receive within that Period any other Payment; income; financial gain. from the United States, or any of (That is, the United States; the states.).
  8. Oath of office
    Before he To begin; to engage in. the Performance; carrying out. of his Office, he shall take the following A solemn declaration by an individual (such as in a court of law) that involves calling upon God to witness the truth of what one says. or A solemn declaration that may be made in place of an oath and often results in legal penalties if the statement is found to be false.:- “I do Very seriously; with religious reverence. swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my Ability, To keep safe from harm or destruction; to uphold or sustain; to keep free from change, decay, or corruption., protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.”

Section 2 - Powers of the President

  1. Military powers; the Cabinet; reprieves and pardons
    The President shall be The supreme commander of a military force. of the Army and Navy of the United States, and of the A nation's able-bodied men who are not enlisted in the regular armed forces but may be called into military service in an emergency. of the several States, when called into the actual Service of the United States; he may require the Opinion, in writing, of the Chief; most important; highest in rank. Officer in each of the Departments of the executive branch of the federal government, such as the Department of State and the Department of Defense. (The heads or upon any Subject relating to the Duties of their Individual; separate. Positions of responsibility or authority in government. and he shall have Power to To give, allow, or bestow. Official declarations that temporarily suspend or delay penalties of the law (such as death sentences). and Official declarations that cancel or reduce penalties of the law and usually grant freedom and full civil rights to those being pardoned. for Crimes; violations of the law. against the United States, except in Cases of A formal charge or accusation of misconduct in public office. (In the national government, such a charge may be made against an officer of the executive or judicial branch. See I.2.5; I.3.6-7; II.4.).
  2. Treaties; appointing officers
    He shall have Power, by and with the Counsel; recommendation. and Approval or agreement. of the Senate, to make Formal agreements or contracts between two or more governments., On the condition that; if. two thirds of the Senators In attendance at the time. To agree or approve.; and he shall To name, designate, or propose (someone) for appointment or election to some public office., and by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, shall appoint The highest-ranking diplomatic officers of a nation, sent to represent that nation's government in foreign countries., other Diplomatic representatives of a nation, usually ranking below ambassadors. and Government agents who reside in foreign countries to represent the commercial interests of their own nation (considered to be of a lower grade than other diplomats)., Judges of the The highest court of justice in the United States. (See III.1.), and all other Officers of the United States, whose Instances of being named or appointed to public office. are not In this document. (That is, in this Constitution.) In a different way; by other means. Arranged for; agreed upon; established or required., and which shall be Set up or made firm. by Law: but the Congress may by Law To place in the control of; to legally give to. the Appointment of such Lower-ranking government officials whose appointment does not require the as (That is, the Congress.) think Fitting; suitable; appropriate. in the President alone, in the Courts of Law, or in the The .
  3. Filling vacancies
    The President shall have Power to fill up all Instances of a public office being left vacant or unoccupied (due to death, resignation, etc.). that may happen during the A temporary stop in business, often for rest or relaxation. of the Senate, by granting Official letters or certificates authorizing individuals to perform certain duties for the government. which shall To come to an end; to cease or terminate. at the End of (That is, the Senate's.) next The period of time during which a legislature or other public body meets to conduct official business..

Section 3 - Responsibilities of the President

Recommending and enforcing laws; convening Congress; receiving ambassadors
(That is, the President.) shall from time to time give to the Congress Information of the The general condition of the United States; the circumstances, both foreign and domestic, affecting the safety and well- being of the nation., and recommend to (That is, the Congress's.) Examination; evaluation; careful thought. such Steps or actions; proposed laws. as he shall judge necessary and Appropriate or suitable; useful or profitable.; he may, on Rare or unusual; special. Occasions, To summon or call together; to cause to assemble. both Chambers or divisions of Congress. (That is, the Senate and the House of Representatives.), or either of them, and in Case of Disagreement between them, with Respect to the Time of The closing of the session of a public body., he may adjourn them to such Time as he shall think Fitting; suitable; appropriate.; he shall To admit; to permit to enter; to officially accept (in this case, to give diplomatic recognition to). (See definitions under II.2.2.) and other public (See definitions under II.2.2.); he shall take Care that the Laws be faithfully Carried into effect.; and shall To appoint or authorize; to give an official letter or certificate authorizing a person to perform certain duties for the government. all the Officers of the United States.

    Section 4 - Impeachment

    How officers may be removed
    The President, Vice President, and all Government officials. (In this case, the term includes all nonmilitary officers of the executive and judicial branches but excludes members of Congress. See I.5.2.) of the United States, shall be removed from A position of responsibility or authority in government. on A formal charge or accusation of misconduct in public office. (See I.2.5.) for, and The act of proving or finding a person guilty of some crime or misconduct. (See I.3.6-7.) of, The crime of betraying one's own country by trying to overthrow its government or by giving help to its enemies. (See III.3.1.) , The crime of giving, offering, or accepting money or some other favor in exchange for unjust or illegal conduct in an office of trust. , or other Acts of serious misconduct in public office (such as violating the Constitution or abusing one's political power to harm citizens or get personal gain)..

    Article III - The Judicial Branch

    Section 1 - The Supreme Court and Other Federal Courts

    Judicial power given; term and payment of judges
    The The authority to interpret law and to administer justice by deciding cases brought before the courts. (In this case, federal courts.) of the United States, shall be Placed in the possession or control of; legally given to. one supreme Court, and in such Of a lower rank. (In this case, lower than the Supreme Court.) Courts as the Congress may from time to time To appoint, decree, or institute; to set in order. and To set up; to make firm or permanent.. The Judges, both of the supreme and inferior Courts, shall hold their Positions of responsibility or authority in government. For life or until voluntary retirement unless convicted of an impeachable offense. (See II.4.), and shall, (That is, according to a schedule set by Congress.), receive for their Services a Payment., which shall not be Reduced; made less or smaller. during their The time during which something lasts or continues. in Office.

    Section 2 - Powers of the Judiciary

    1. Cases that may be tried in federal courts
      The The authority to interpret law and to administer justice by deciding cases brought before the courts. (In this case, federal courts.) shall To stretch out or reach; to apply. to all Lawsuits, accusations, or legal questions brought before a judge or court of law for decision., Whether involving matters of law or matters of equity. (Equity means justice, rightness, or fairness. In addition to the regular courts of law, some American states had established special , Originating; appearing; coming into being. under this Constitution, the Laws of the United States, and Formal agreements or contracts between two or more governments. (See II.2.2.) made, or which shall be made, under (That is, the United States'.) Authority; --to all Cases affecting (See definitions under II.2.2.); --to all Cases of The authority to administer justice in matters relating to ships and shipping on the high seas (often involving the rights of citizens of foreign countries).; --to Legal disputes; lawsuits. to which the United States shall be a A person or group taking one side in a dispute.; --to Controversies between two or more States; --[between a State and Citizens of another State;--]amd between Persons who owe allegiance to a government and are entitled to its protection. (See Amendment 14, section 1.) of different States, --between Citizens of the same State claiming Lands under Deeds or other written documents transferring property from one owner to another. (In this case, the state governments granted parcels of land to individual citizens. Disputes over the boundaries of some states and their western territories resulted in overlapping land grants and thus conflicting claims.) of different States, [and between a State, or the Citizens Of the thing previously mentioned. (That is, of , and Nations or governments outside the United States., Citizens, or Persons under the authority or control of a king or government.]amd.
    2. Authority of the Supreme Court
      In all Cases affecting Ambassadors, other public Ministers and Consuls, and those in which a State shall be Party, the supreme Court shall have The authority to be the first court to hear and decide cases.. In all the other Cases before mentioned, the supreme Court shall have The authority to hear and decide appeals from the decisions of lower courts. (An appeal is a request to have a case heard again in a higher court.), both as to Application of the law and examination of the facts in a case., with such Exceptions, and under such Rules or orders having the force of law. as the Congress shall make.
    3. Rules for federal criminal trials
      The Trial of all Crimes, except in Cases of A formal charge or accusation of misconduct in public office. (In the national government, such a charge may be made against an officer of the executive or judicial branch. See I.2.5; I.3.6-7; II.4.) shall be by A body of citizens appointed to examine a case brought before a court of law and to give a verdict (decision) according to the evidence presented. (See Amendments 6 and 7.); and such Trial shall be held in the State where the (That is, all crimes, except in cases of impeachment.) shall have been committed; but when not committed within any State, the Trial shall be at such Place or Places as the Congress may by Law have directed.

    Section 3 - Treason

    1. Treason defined; evidence required
      The crime of betraying one's own country by trying to overthrow its government or by giving help to its enemies. against the United States, shall To be or exist; to be contained. only in Engaging in or carrying on; waging. War against (That is, the United States.) or in Giving support or loyalty to; uniting with; holding to. their Those who belong to a nation or armed force at war with one's own nation., giving (That is, the enemies of the United States.) Assistance, support, and encouragement.. No Person shall be Proven or found guilty of some crime or misconduct. of Treason unless on the A solemn declaration of facts, usually made under oath. of two Persons who have definite knowledge of a fact or event and may give testimony in a court of law. to the same An actual deed that is seen or open to view (as opposed to a secret intention that is not carried out)., or on An acknowledgment or voluntary admission of crime or guilt. in open Court.
    2. Punishment of those found guilty
      The Congress shall have Power to To formally or publicly state or announce. (In this case, by enacting laws.) the Punishment of Treason, but no Conviction for (in a court of law). Treason shall work A condition of being legally declared or The loss of one's land or other property. except during the Life of the Person Convicted..

    Article IV - The States and the National Government

    Section 1 - Recognition of laws, records, and court proceedings

    Full Faith and credit given in each state to public acts, records, and judicial proceedings of all other states
    Full Acceptance; legal recognition and enforcement. shall be given in each State to the Laws., Official documents (such as deeds, wills, birth certificates, etc.)., and Rulings or decisions of the courts. of every other State; And the Congress may by general Laws To order, direct, or lay down as a rule. the Form; method; way. in which such Acts, Records and Proceedings shall be Confirmed as valid, authentic, or legal., and the Effect Of the thing or things previously mentioned. (That is, of the .

    Section 2 - Citizens' rights; fugitives

    1. Equal Privileges for all citizens
      The Persons who owe allegiance to a government and are entitled to its protection. (See Amendment 14, section 1. In the United States, citizens have the privilege and duty of voting in public elections, serving on juries, and otherwise maintaining our system of free government.) of each State shall To have a right or claim. to all Rights and protections which are granted or secured by law (such as the right to buy, own, and sell property; the right to travel on public highways; or the right to be protected from higher taxes than those imposed on other citizens). of Citizens in the several States.
    2. Extradition of criminals
      A Person charged in any State with Treason, Felony, or other Crime, who shall flee from Justice, and be found in another State, shall on Demand of the executive Authority of the State from which he fled, be delivered up, to be removed to the State having Jurisdiction of the Crime.
    3. Fugitive slaves to be returned [now obsolete]
      [No (That is, a slave or indentured servant. An indentured servant is a person bound by contract to serve someone else for several years. See I.2.3.) in one State, under the Laws Of the thing previously mentioned. (That is, of , escaping into (That is, another state.), shall, As a result of. any Law or A rule or order having the force of law. In the place previously mentioned. (That is, in the state to which the slave has escaped.), be Released, freed, or dismissed. from such Service or Labour, but shall be delivered up on Claim of the A person. (In this case, the slaveowner or the employer with whom the indentured servant has contracted.) to whom such Service or Labour may be Owed..]amd

    Section 3 - New States and Territories

    1. Creation of new states
      New States may be Allowed to enter. by the Congress into (That is, the United States.); but no new State shall be formed or Founded, set up, or established. within the The limits or territory within which legal power or authority may be exercised. of any other State; nor any State be formed by the Union or joining. of two or more States, or Parts of States, without the Approval or agreement. of the Organized bodies of people having authority to make laws. of the States Interested; involved or affected. as well as of the Congress.
    2. Power of Congress over territories and federal property
      The Congress shall have Power to To part with; to give away; to transfer to someone else's control. and make all needful Rules and Rules or orders having the force of law. Concerning; pertaining to. the Any geographical area owned or controlled by a state or nation, often located far from the seat of government. (In this case, a part of the United States that is not included within any state.) or other Property belonging to the United States; and nothing in this Constitution shall be so Understood, interpreted, or explained. as to To injure or damage. any Rights or legal titles to land. of the United States, or of any Single; individual. State.

    Section 4 - Federal Duties to the States

    The United States shall To make sure; to secure. to every State in (That is, the United States.) a Representative; pertaining to a republic, in which the people govern themselves through their elected representatives. Form of Government, and shall protect each of (That is, the states.) against An attack by an enemy; an instance of a hostile army entering to plunder or conquer. and on Request or petition. of the An organized body of people having authority to make laws., or of the The officer who executes or carries into effect the laws of a particular government. (In this case, the governor of a state.) (when the Legislature cannot be Summoned or called together; assembled for a meeting.) against Rebellion, rioting, etc., by mobs within a particular state..

    Article V - Amendment Process

    The Congress, whenever two thirds of both Chambers or divisions of Congress. (That is, the Senate and the House of Representatives.) shall To think, judge, or conclude. it necessary, shall To recommend or suggest. Additions, corrections, or other changes in wording. to this Constitution, or, on the A request or petition. of the Organized bodies of people having authority to make laws. of two thirds of the several States, shall To invite or direct to meet; to summon or assemble. a A formal meeting or assembly of citizens, specially organized to consider important political matters. for proposing Amendments, which, in either Case, shall be Legally recognized and enforceable. to all Intentions; aims. ( and Purposes, as Part of this Constitution, when Officially approved or confirmed by vote. by the Legislatures of three fourths of the several States, or by Conventions in three fourths Of the thing previously mentioned. (That is, of , as the one or the other Method; way. of Ratification may be proposed by the Congress; On the condition that; if. no Amendment which may be made Before. the year one thousand eight hundred and eight shall in any Form; method; way. affect the first and fourth clauses in the ninth section of the first Article; and that no State, without its Approval or agreement., shall To have (something) withheld or taken away. its equal The right to vote. (In this case, a state's right to the same number of votes in the Senate allowed to every other state, regardless of differences in population. See I.3.1.) in the Senate.

     Article VI - Debts; Supremacy Clause; Duties of Officials

    1. National debts still in force
      All Amounts of money owed to others. Undertaken or incurred; agreed to by contract. and Obligations, agreements, or contracts. entered into, before the The act of formally accepting and putting into effect. of this Constitution, shall be as Legally recognized and enforceable. against the United States under this Constitution, as under the The United States under its first form of government, the Articles of Confederation (before the adoption of the Constitution)..
    2. Supreme law of the land
      This Constitution, and the Laws of the United States which shall be made In agreement with or under the authority of the thing previously mentioned. (That is, of  and all Formal agreements or contracts between two or more governments. (See II.2.2.) made, or which shall be made, under the Authority of the United States, shall be the Highest in authority. Law of the land; and the Judges in every State shall be Legally restrained or obligated. By the thing or things previously mentioned. (That is, by the Constitution and the laws and treaties made under its authority.), any Thing in the A set of basic rules and principles that determine how a state or nation is organized and governed. or Laws of any State Being in opposition or out of harmony. In spite of; nevertheless..
    3. Oath to support the Constitution; no religious test
      The Members of the U.S. Senate, elected by the people to represent them in making laws for the United States. (Until 1913, Senators were appointed by the state legislatures to represent the state governments. See I.3.1; Amendment 17.) and Members of the U.S. House of Representatives, elected by the people to represent them in making laws for the United States. (Also called Congressmen or Congresswomen. See I.2.) (See I.2; I.3.), and the Members of the several The lawmaking bodies of the state governments., and all (See II.1.1; II.2.1-2.) and (See III.1.), both of the United States and of the several States, shall be bound by A solemn declaration by an individual (such as in a court of law) that involves calling upon God to witness the truth of what one says. or A solemn declaration that may be made in place of an oath and often results in legal penalties if the statement is found to be false. to To sustain or uphold; to maintain; to keep from failing. this Constitution; but no An oath whereby a person entering public office declares his belief in certain religious doctrines. shall ever be required as a A condition that a person must meet before being considered fit or eligible for a certain privilege. to any A position of responsibility or authority in government. or Any civic duty or responsibility committed to a person by the voters or the government. under the United States.

    Article VII - Ratifying the Constitution

    1. Approval of nine states required
      The Official approval or confirmation by vote. of the Formal meetings or assemblies of citizens, specially organized to consider important political matters. of nine States, shall be Enough; adequate. for the The act of setting up or making firm or permanent. of this Constitution between the States so ratifying The same thing previously mentioned. (That is, .
    2. done in A formal meeting or assembly of citizens, specially organized to consider important political matters. (In this case, the Constitutional Convention of 1787.) by the Being of one mind; with all being agreed. Approval or agreement. of the States Represented by delegates in attendance on that date. (That is, all of the original thirteen states except Rhode Island and New York. Rhode Island was the only state that had sent no delegates to the convention. Alexander Hamilton of New York signed the Constitution even though his state, lacking full representation at the end of the convention, could not take part in the voting.) the Seventeenth Day of September in the (That is, A.D.; from Anno Domini, which is Latin for 'in the year of our Lord,' signifying the number of years since the birth of Christ.) one thousand seven hundred and eighty seven, and of the A condition of being self-governing, not depending on another nation or subject to its control. of the United States of America the (That is, the twelfth year of American independence.). As evidence or proof. Of which. (That is, of the facts stated in the preceding sentence.) We have To this document. Signed; written underneath. our Names.

    G. WASHINGTON - (That is, president of the Constitutional Convention.)
    and A person appointed or elected to act on behalf of another. (In this case, on behalf of the Virginia state legislature.) from Virginia

     

    New Hampshire Pennsylvania Virginia
    John Langdon Benjamin Franklin John Blair
    Nicholas Gilman Thomas Mifflin James Madison, Jr.
      Robert Morris  
    Massachusetts George Clymer North Carolina
    Nathaniel Gorham Thomas FitzSimons William Blount
    Rufus King Jared Ingersoll Richard Dobbs Spaight
      James Wilson Hugh Williamson
    Connecticut Gouverneur Morris  
    William Samuel Johnson   South Carolina
    Roger Sherman Delaware John Rutledge
      George Read Charles Cotesworth
    New York Gunning Bedford, Jr. Pinckney
    Alexander Hamilton John Dickinson Charles Pinckney
      Richard Bassett Pierce Butler
    New Jersey Jacob Broom  
    William Livingston   Georgia
    David Brearley Maryland William Few
    William Paterson James McHenry Abraham Baldwin
    Jonathan Dayton Daniel of St. Thomas  
      Jenifer  
      Daniel Carroll  

     

    Short for attestation, which means the signing of a document by a witness to affirm that it is true or genuine.. William Jackson (That is, secretary of the Constitutional Convention.)