The 7 Articles of the Constitution

What is the preamble?

An introductory paragraph that sets the stage for the rest of the document.

We the people

What is the constitution?

Outlines the government

People have the power

Power is shared/ divided in federal system (50 states and 1 federal)

Article 1

Gives Congress the power/ limits and create bicameral legislature

Article 2

Makes up the executive branch.

I.E. President and executive officers

Article 3

Creates the judicial branch (interprests laws), supreme court (SCOTUS) and lower courts

Article 4

Talks about the states

Duties and responsibilities between states and federal gov

Article 5

Talks about changing the constitution through the amendment process, initiated by states or congress.

Article 6

Refers to debts, supremacy and oaths.

“Supreme law of the land” leaders must be loyal

Article 7

Deals with requirements for ratification of the constitution (9-13 states)