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The Preamble to the Constitution: A Close Reading Lesson

The first page of the United States Constitution, opening with the Preamble.

National Archives

"[T]he preamble of a statute is a key to open the mind of the makers, as to the mischiefs, which are to be remedied, and the objects, which are to be accomplished by the provisions of the statute." — Justice Joseph Story, Commentaries on the Constitution

The Preamble is the introduction to the United States Constitution, and it serves two central purposes. First, it states the source from which the Constitution derives its authority: the sovereign people of the United States. Second, it sets forth the ends that the Constitution and the government that it establishes are meant to serve.

Gouverneur Morris, the man the Constitutional Convention entrusted with drafting the final version of the document, put into memorable language the principles of government negotiated and formulated at the Convention.

As Supreme Court Justice Joseph Story points out in the passage quoted above, the Preamble captures some of the hopes and fears of the framers for the American republic. By reading their words closely and comparing them with those of the Articles of Confederation, students can in turn access “the mind of the makers” as to “mischiefs” to be “remedied” and “objects” to be accomplished.

In this lesson, students will practice close reading of the Preamble and of related historic documents, illuminating the ideas that the framers of the Constitution set forth about the foundation and the aims of government.

Guiding Questions

How does the language of the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution reflect historical circumstances and ideas about government?

To what extent is the U.S. Constitution a finished document?

Learning Objectives

Compare the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution with the statement of purposes included in the Articles of Confederation.

Explain the source of authority and the goals of the U.S. Constitution as identified in the Preamble.

Evaluate the fundamental values and principles expressed in the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution.

Lesson Plan Details

The Articles of Confederation was established in 1781 as the nation’s “first constitution.” Each state governed itself through elected representatives, and the state representatives in turn elected a central government. But the national government was so feeble and its powers so limited that this system proved unworkable. Congress could not impose taxes to cover national expenses, which meant the Confederation was ineffectual. And because all 13 colonies had to ratify amendments, one state’s refusal prevented any reform. By 1786 many far-sighted American leaders saw the need for a more powerful central authority; a convention was called to meet in Philadelphia in May 1787.

The Constitutional Convention met for four months. Among the chief points at issue were how much power to allow the central government and then, how to balance and check that power to prevent government abuse.

As debate at the Philadelphia Convention drew to a close, Gouverneur Morris was assigned to the Committee of Style and given the task of wording the Constitution by the committee’s members. Through thoughtful word choice, Morris attempted to put the fundamental principles agreed on by the framers into memorable language.

By looking carefully at the words of the Preamble, comparing it with the similar passages in the opening of the Articles of Confederation, and relating them to historical circumstances as well as widely shared political principles such as those found in the Declaration of Independence, students can see how the Preamble reflects the hope and fears of the Framers.

For background information about the history and interpretation of the Constitution, see the following resources:

• A basic and conveniently organized introduction to the historical context is “ To Form a More Perfect Union ,” available in Documents from the Continental Congress and the Constitutional Convention, 1774–1789 from the Library of Congress .
• Another historical summary is " Constitution of the United States—A History ," available in America's Founding Documents from the National Archives .
• The Interactive Constitution , a digital resource that incorporates commentary from constitutional scholars, is available from the National Constitution Center .
• The American Constitution: A Documentary Record , available via  The Avalon Project at the Yale Law School , offers an extensive archive of documents critical to the development of the Constitution.

This lesson is one of a series of complementary EDSITEment lesson plans for intermediate-level students about the foundations of our government. Consider adapting them for your class in the following order:

• The Argument of the Declaration of Independence
• (Present lesson plan)
• Balancing Three Branches at Once: Our System of Checks and Balances:
• The First Amendment: What's Fair in a Free Country

NCSS. D2.Civ.3.9-12. Analyze the impact of constitutions, laws, treaties, and international agreements on the maintenance of national and international order.

NCSS.D2.Civ.4.9-12. Explain how the U.S. Constitution establishes a system of government that has powers, responsibilities, and limits that have changed over time and that are still contested.

NCSS. D2.His.3.9-12. Use questions generated about individuals and groups to assess how the significance of their actions changes over time and is shaped by the historical context.

NCSS. D2.His.4.9-12. Analyze complex and interacting factors that influenced the perspectives of people during different historical eras.

NCSS. D2.His.5.9-12. Analyze how historical contexts shaped and continue to shape people’s perspectives.

NCSS. D2.His.6.9-12. Analyze the ways in which the perspectives of those writing history shaped the history that they produced.

NCSS. D2.His.14.9-12. Analyze multiple and complex causes and effects of events in the past.

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.R.1. Read closely to determine what the text says explicitly and to make logical inferences from it; cite specific textual evidence when writing or speaking to support conclusions drawn from the text.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.6-8.2. Determine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary source; provide an accurate summary of the source distinct from prior knowledge or opinions.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.6-8.6. Identify aspects of a text that reveal an author’s point of view or purpose (e.g., loaded language, inclusion or avoidance of particular facts).

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.6-8.10. By the end of grade 8, read and comprehend history/social studies texts in the grades 6-8 text complexity band independently and proficiently.

The following resources are included with this lesson plan to be used in conjunction with the student activities and for teacher preparation.

• Activity 1. Student Worksheet
• Activity 2. Teachers Guide to the Preamble
• Activity 2. Graphic Organizer

Review the Graphic Organizer for Activity 2, which contains the Preamble to the Constitution along with the opening passages of the Articles of Confederation and the second paragraph of the Declaration of Independence (both from OurDocuments.gov ), and make copies for the class.

Activity 1. Why Government?

To help students understand the enormous task facing the Americans, pose a hypothetical situation to the class:

Imagine that on a field trip to a wilderness area or sailing trip to a small, remote island, you all became stranded without any communication with parents, the school, or other adults and had little hope of being rescued in the foreseeable future. The area where you’re marooned can provide the basic necessities of food, shelter, and water, but you will have to work together to survive.

Encourage students to think about the next steps they need to take with a general discussion about such matters as:

• Are you better working together or alone? (Be open to their ideas, but point out reasons why they have a better chance at survival if they work together.)
• How will you work together?
• How will you create rules?
• Who will be responsible for leading the group to help all survive?
• How will they be chosen?
• How will you deal with people in the group who may not be following the rules?

Distribute the Student Worksheet handout , which contains the seven questions below. [ Note: These questions are related to the seven phrases from the Preamble but this relationship in not given on the handout. ]

Divide students into small groups and have each group brainstorm a list of things they would have to consider in developing its own government. [ Note: You can have all groups answer all seven questions or assign one question for each group.] Ask students to be detailed in their answers and be able to support their recommendations.

• How will you make sure everyone sticks together and works towards the common goal of getting rescued? (form a more perfect union)
• How will you make sure that anyone who feels unfairly treated will have a place to air complaints? (establishing justice) 
• How will you make sure that people can have peace and quiet? (ensuring domestic tranquility) 
• How will you make sure that group members will help if outsiders arrive who threaten your group? (providing for the common defense)
• How will you make sure that the improvements you make on the island (such as shelters, fireplaces and the like) will be used fairly? (promoting the general welfare) 
• How will you make sure that group members will be free to do what they want as long as it doesn't hurt anyone else? (securing the blessing of liberty to ourselves) 
• How will you make sure that the rules and organizations you develop protect future generations? (securing the blessing of liberty to our posterity) 

While students are working in their groups, write or project the following seven headers on the front board in this order:

• Secure the Blessings of Liberty for our Posterity,
• Promote the General Welfare,
• Establish Justice,
• Form a more perfect Union,
• Insure Domestic Tranquility,
• Secure the Blessings of Liberty to Ourselves, and
• Provide for the Common Defense

After the groups have finished discussing their questions, have them meet as a class. First ask them to identify which question (by number) from their handout goes with which section of the Preamble of the U.S. Constitution you’ve listed on the front board. Next, have students share their recommendations to the questions and allow other groups to comment, add, or disagree with the recommendations made.

Exit Ticket:

Encourage class discussion of the following questions:

• Having just released themselves from Britain's monarchy, what would the colonists fear most?
• Judging from some of the complaints the colonists had against Britain, what might be some of their concerns for any future government?

As in the hypothetical situation described above, what decisions would the colonists have to make about forming a new government out of 13 colonies which, until 1776, had basically been running themselves independently?

Activity 2. What the Preamble Says

Review the Teachers' Guide to the Preamble , which parses each of the phrases of the Preamble and contrasts them with the equivalent passages in the Articles and the Declaration. Teachers can use this guide as a source for a short lecture before the activity and as a kind of answer sheet for the activity.

In this activity, students investigate the Preamble to the Constitution by comparing and contrasting it with the opening language of the Articles of Confederation. They will:

• understand how the Preamble of the Constitution (in outlining the goals of the new government under the Constitution) was written with the deficiencies of the Articles of Confederation in mind, aiming to create “a more perfect union,” and
• understand how the Preamble drew its justification from the principles outlined in the Declaration of Independence.

The aim of this activity is to show students, through a close reading of the Preamble, how its style and content reflect some of the aspirations of the framers for the future of republican government in America. 

[ Note: teachers should define “diction,” “connotation,” and “denotation” to the students before beginning to ask students to differentiate between language in the two documents. ]

Distribute copies of the Graphic Organizer and questions to all students and have them complete it in their small groups (or individually as a homework assignment).

Have one or two students or groups of students summarize their conclusions concerning the critical differences between the Articles and the Preamble, citing the sources of these documents as referents.

Have students answer the following in a brief, well-constructed essay:

Using the ideas and information presented in this lesson, explain how the wording and structure of the Preamble demonstrate that the Constitution is different from the Articles of Confederation.

Note: For an excellent example of what can be inferred from the language and structure of the Preamble, teachers should review and model this passage by Professor Garret Epps from “ The Poetry of the Preamble ” on the Oxford University Press blog (2013):

“Form, establish, insure, provide, promote, secure”: these are strong verbs that signify governmental power, not restraint. “We the people” are to be bound—into a stronger union. We will be protected against internal disorder—that is, against ourselves—and against foreign enemies. The “defence” to be provided is “common,” general, spread across the country. The Constitution will establish justice; it will promote the “general” welfare; it will secure our liberties. The new government, it would appear, is not the enemy of liberty but its chief agent and protector.

Students could be asked whether they agree or disagree with the above interpretation. They should be expected to provide evidence-based arguments for their position.

The aspirational rhetoric of the Preamble has inspired various social movements throughout our nation’s history. In particular, two 19th-century developments come to mind: the struggles for abolitionism and women's suffrage. Examples of oratory from each movement are provided below. In response to one of these excerpts, students can write a short essay about how the words of the Preamble affected the relevant movement.

• Students should ascertain what the Preamble meant to the movement and how it was used to make an appeal to the nation. The essay might address the question of how and why those such as Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony, who at their time were excluded from the full range of rights and liberties ensured by the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, responded to the principles expressed in the Preamble.
• Students should then argue either for or against the interpretation of the Preamble advanced in the excerpt, drawing from the knowledge gained in this lesson.

Be sure that the essay has a strong thesis (a non-obvious, debatable proposition about the Preamble) that students support with evidence from the texts used in this lesson.

Example 1. Frederick Douglass, “ What to the Slave is the Fourth of July ?” (1852)

Fellow-citizens! there is no matter in respect to which, the people of the North have allowed themselves to be so ruinously imposed upon, as that of the pro-slavery character of the Constitution. In that instrument I hold there is neither warrant, license, nor sanction of the hateful thing; but, interpreted as it ought to be interpreted, the Constitution is a GLORIOUS LIBERTY DOCUMENT. Read its preamble, consider its purposes. Is slavery among them? Is it at the gateway? or is it in the temple? It is neither.

Example 2. Susan B. Anthony, “ Is It a Crime for a U.S. Citizen to Vote? ” ( 1873)

It was we, the people; not we, the white male citizens; nor yet we, the male citizens; but we, the whole people, who formed the Union. And we formed it, not to give the blessings of liberty, but to secure them; not to the half of ourselves and the half of our posterity, but to the whole people—women as well as men. And it is a downright mockery to talk to women of their enjoyment of the blessings of liberty while they are denied the use of the only means of securing them provided by this democratic-republican government—the ballot.

Materials & Media

Preamble close reading: activity 1 student worksheet, preamble close reading: activity 2 graphic organizer, preamble close reading: activity 2 teachers guide, related on edsitement, a day for the constitution, commemorating constitution day, the constitutional convention of 1787.

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The U.S. Constitution: Preamble

The preamble sets the stage for the  Constitution  (Archives.gov). It clearly communicates the intentions of the framers and the purpose of the document. The preamble is an introduction to the highest law of the land; it is not the law. It does not define government powers or individual rights.

Establish Justice is the first of five objectives outlined in the 52-word paragraph that the Framers drafted in six weeks during the hot Philadelphia summer of 1787. They found a way to agree on the following basic principles:

"We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America."

In this video, designed to guide group recitations of the preamble to the U.S. Constitution, the words are supported by visuals and background music that give it emotional impact as it sets out the aspirations that “We the People” have for our government and for our way of life as a nation.

Promises of the Preamble

High school journalists share what the promises of the preamble to the Constitution mean to them. This video can be used as an inspirational element in a courtroom, classroom, or community program. It also can serve as an effective discussion starter to stimulate conversation about the Constitution.

DISCLAIMER: These resources are created by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts for educational purposes only. They may not reflect the current state of the law, and are not intended to provide legal advice, guidance on litigation, or commentary on any pending case or legislation.

Preamble to the US Constitution

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The Preamble to the U.S. Constitution summarizes the Founding Fathers’ intention to create a federal government dedicated to ensuring that “We the People” always live in a safe, peaceful, healthy, well-defended—and most of all—free nation.  The preamble states:

“We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”

As the Founders intended, the Preamble has no force in law. It grants no powers to the federal or state governments, nor does it limit the scope of future government actions. As a result, the Preamble has never been cited by any federal court , including the U.S. Supreme Court , in deciding cases dealing with constitutional issues.

Also known as the “Enacting Clause,” the Preamble did not become a part of the Constitution until the final few days of the Constitutional Convention after Gouverneur Morris, who had also signed the Articles of Confederation , pressed for its inclusion. Before it was drafted, the Preamble had not been proposed or discussed on the floor of the convention.

The first version of the preamble did not refer to, “We the People of the United States…” Instead, it referred to the people of the individual states. The word “people” did not appear, and the phrase “the United States” was followed by a listing of the states as they appeared on the map from north to south. However, the Framers changed to the final version when they realized that the Constitution would go into effect as soon as nine states gave their approval, whether any of the remaining states had ratified it or not.

The Value of the Preamble

The Preamble explains why we have and need the Constitution. It also gives us the best summary we will ever have of what the Founders were considering as they hashed out the basics of the three branches of government .

In his highly acclaimed book, Commentaries on the Constitution of the United States, Justice Joseph Story wrote of the Preamble, “its true office is to expound the nature and extent and application of the powers actually conferred by the Constitution.”

In addition, no less noted authority on the Constitution than Alexander Hamilton himself, in Federalist No. 84, stated that the Preamble gives us “a better recognition of popular rights than volumes of those aphorisms which make the principal figure in several of our State bills of rights, and which would sound much better in a treatise of ethics than in a constitution of government.”

James Madison , one of the leading architects of the Constitution, may have put it best when he wrote in The Federalist No. 49:

[T]he people are the only legitimate fountain of power, and it is from them that the constitutional charter, under which the several branches of government hold their power, is derived . . . .

While is common and understandable to think of the Preamble as merely a grand rhetorical “preview” of the Constitution, with no without meaningful effect, this is not entirely the case. The Preamble has been called the “Enacting Clause” or “Enabling Clause” of the Constitution, meaning that it confirms the American peoples’ freely agreed-to adoption of the Constitution—through the state ratification process—as the exclusive document conferring and defining the powers of government and the rights of citizens. However, the Framers of the Constitution clearly understood that in the legal context of 1787, preambles to legal documents were not binding provisions and thus should not be used to justify the expansion, contraction, or denial of any of the substantive terms in the remainder of the Constitution.

Most importantly, the Preamble confirmed that the Constitution was being created and enacted by the collective “People of the United States,” meaning that “We the People,” rather than the government, “own” the Constitution and are thus ultimately responsible for its continued existence and interpretation. 

Understand the Preamble, Understand the Constitution

Each phrase in the Preamble helps explain the purpose of the Constitution as envisioned by the Framers.

‘We the People’

This well-known key phrase means that the Constitution incorporates the visions of all Americans and that the rights and freedoms bestowed by the document belong to all citizens of the United States of America.

‘In order to form a more perfect union’

The phrase recognizes that the old government based on the Articles of Confederation was extremely inflexible and limited in scope, making it hard for the government to respond to the changing needs of the people over time. 

‘Establish justice’

The lack of a system of justice ensuring fair and equal treatment of the people had been the primary reason for the Declaration of Independence and the American Revolution against England. The Framers wanted to ensure a fair and equal system of justice for all Americans.

‘Insure domestic tranquility’

The Constitutional Convention was held shortly after Shays’ Rebellion , a bloody uprising of farmers in Massachusetts against the state caused by the monetary debt crisis at the end of the Revolutionary War. In this phrase, the Framers were responding to fears that the new government would be unable to keep peace within the nation’s borders.

‘Provide for the common defense’

The Framers were acutely aware that the new nation remained extremely vulnerable to attacks by foreign nations and that no individual state had the power to repel such attacks. Thus, the need for a unified, coordinated effort to defend the nation would always be a vital function of the U.S. federal government .

‘Promote the general welfare’

The Framers also recognized that the general well-being of the American citizens would be another key responsibility of the federal government.

‘Secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity’

The phrase confirms the Framer’s vision that the very purpose of the Constitution is to protect the nation’s blood-earned rights for liberty, justice, and freedom from a tyrannical government.

‘Ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America’

Simply stated, the Constitution and the government it embodies are created by the people, and that it is the people who give America its power.

The Preamble in Court

While the Preamble has no legal standing, the courts have used it in trying to interpret the meaning and intent of various sections of the Constitution as they apply to modern legal situations. In this way, courts have found the Preamble useful in determining the “spirit” of the Constitution.

Since the Constitution's enactment, the Supreme Court of the United States has cited the Preamble in several important decisions. However, the Court largely disclaimed the legal importance of the Preamble in making those decisions. As Justice Story noted in his Commentaries, “the Preamble never can be resorted to, to enlarge the powers confided to the general government or any of its departments.”

The Supreme Court subsequently endorsed Justice Story's view of the Preamble, holding in Jacobson v. Massachusetts that, "while the Constitution's introductory paragraph indicates the general purposes for which the people ordained and established the Constitution, it has never been regarded by the Court as the source of any substantive power conferred on the federal government.” While the Supreme Court has not viewed the Preamble as having any direct, substantive legal effect, the Court has referenced its broad general rules to confirm and reinforce its interpretation of other provisions within the Constitution. As such, while the Preamble does not have any specific legal status, Justice Story's observation that the true purpose of the Preamble is to enlarge on the nature, and extent, and application of the powers actually conferred by the Constitution.

More broadly, while the Preamble may have little significance in a court of law, the preface to the Constitution remains an important part of the nation's constitutional dialogue, inspiring and fostering broader understandings of the American system of government.

Whose Government is it and What is it For?

The Preamble contains what may be the most important three words in our nation’s history: “We the People.” Those three words, along with the brief balance of the Preamble, establish the very basis of our system of “ federalism ,” under which the states and central government are granted both shared and exclusive powers, but only with the approval of “We the people.”

Compare the Constitution’s Preamble to its counterpart in the Constitution’s predecessor, the Articles of Confederation. In that compact, the states alone formed “a firm league of friendship, for their common defense, the security of their liberties, and their mutual and general welfare” and agreed to protect each other “against all force offered to, or attacks made upon them, or any of them, on account of religion, sovereignty, trade, or any other pretence whatever.”

Clearly, the Preamble sets the Constitution apart from the Articles of Confederation as being an agreement among the people, rather than the states, and placing an emphasis on rights and freedoms above the military protection of the individual states. 

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Writing the Preamble, Name, and Purpose

• Section 1 of Article 1 may state, for example: “The name of this [group type] shall be (insert full name), hereafter referred to as (insert a shortened name).” [3] X Research source The shortened name may also be an acronym, and if you use an acronym, this article may say, after stating the full name of the organization, "This organization will use the name or its acronym (enter acronym) in all publicity materials and correspondence." [4] X Research source
• Section 2 of Article 1 may state, for example: “The officers of (enter shortened name or acronym) shall make up the Executive Board of (enter shortened name or acronym), hereafter referred to as the ‘Board.’” [5] X Research source

• Section 1 of Article 2 should provide the purpose of the organization. You can write, for example: “The purpose of this organization shall be (enter in a few sentences the purpose of the organization).” [6] X Research source
• Section 2 of Article 2 should provide the purpose of the executive board. You can write, for example: “The Board shall (enter purpose of the executive board).” [7] X Research source

Writing the Rules on Membership, Meetings, and Officers

• Section 1 of Article 3 can say, for example: “The general body of the organization must be comprised of at least two-thirds of (enter the group(s) to whom you wish to extend two-thirds majority membership, such as students within a specific department). The requirements of membership are (insert requirements).” [9] X Research source
• Section 2 of Article 3 can say, for example: “The privileges and responsibilities of membership are (enter a list of rights and responsibilities).” [10] X Research source
• Section 3 of Article 3 can say, for example: “Membership may be revoked (by whom and by what procedure) due to (list criteria).” You can also use this section of Article 3 to note any restrictions on membership of specific group(s) of people. Note, however, that in the case of university organizations, it is generally against the rules to exclude people from joining your organization on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, race, religion, or disability. [11] X Research source This may also be true of non-university organizations, and it is in your best interest not to include in your constitution arbitrary rules that exclude certain groups from joining your organization for no legitimate reason.
• To make clear your nondiscrimination policy, you may write, for example, "Membership shall be open to all current students, faculty, and staff of (enter name of university), regardless of age, creed, race, colour, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, socioeconomic status, disability, national origin, or status as a veteran. This list is not exhaustive."

• Section 1 of Article 4 can state the frequency of meetings and can designate the party who has the right to call meetings.
• Section 2 of this article can indicate how policy decisions will be made and how formal voting will take place for the approval of those decisions. [13] X Research source You can write, for example, "A majority of the Board shall constitute a quorum to transact any business. A majority of those voting shall constitute an affirmative vote of the Board. Each Officer shall be entitled to one vote and the vote of the majority of the Board at any meeting at which there is a quorum shall be sufficient to transact business."

• Section 1 of Article 5 can say, for example: “The group shall have the following officers…” followed by a list of officer titles. This section should also indicate the methods of nomination and election of these offices and who is eligible to hold these offices. [15] X Research source
• Section 2 of Article 5 can say, for example: “The duties of these officers shall be (list duties).” [16] X Research source
• Section 3 of Article 5 should state the lengths of terms that the officers can hold and any term limits. [17] X Research source
• Section 4 of Article 5 should state the group from which the president and treasurer of the group may be chosen. You can write, for example: “Only members who are undergraduate students in the College of Engineering may hold the position of president or treasurer.” [18] X Research source This section should also state that no member can be president and treasurer at the same time. [19] X Research source

Writing the Rules on Elections, Committees, and By-Laws

• Section 1 of Article 6 can say, for example: “Organizational elections must take place at least once per year.” [21] X Research source This section should also provide the general rules on elections, whereas more specific election rules can be written in the group or organisation's bylaws. [22] X Research source The general rules on elections may include, for example, rules on voting procedure. You can write, for example: "The winners of the elections for representatives shall be determined by plurality vote. No student, however, shall be elected as class representative unless he or she receives the vote of ten percent (10%) of the class from which he or she was elected."
• Section 2 of Article 6 should provide the general appointment procedures for appointing officers, whereas more specific appointment procedures can be written in the bylaws. [23] X Research source
• Section 3 of Article 6 can say, for example: “The members of the Board may be impeached and removed (enter grounds for impeachment and removal and enter impeachment and removal procedures).” [24] X Research source
• Section 4 of Article 6 can say, for example: “In the event of a mid-term vacancy of an elected officer…” followed by the procedure for electing an interim or permanent replacement officer. [25] X Research source

• Section 1 of Article 7 can say, for example: “The standing committees of this group shall be…” followed by a list of all standing committees. [27] X Research source Note: a standing committee is a permanent committee whose purpose is to consider all matters that relate to a particular subject.
• Section 2 of Article 7 can say, for example: “The duties of each of these standing committees shall be…” followed by a list of the duties. [28] X Research source
• Section 3 of Article 7 should provide the rules on how committee members will be selected and removed. [29] X Research source
• Section 4 of Article 7 can say, for example: “Additional committees may be formed and dissolved by the group…” followed by the procedures for adding and removing committees. [30] X Research source

• Section 1 of Article 8 can say, for example: “Bylaws of the group shall be established and amended by…” followed by the procedures for creating and amending the group bylaws. [33] X Research source
• Section 2 of Article 8 can say, for example: “Bylaws of the Board shall be established and amended by…” followed by the procedures for amending and creating bylaws of the executive board. [34] X Research source
• Bylaws should not contradict anything in the Constitution. Generally, bylaws contain detailed provisions on such topics as membership, dues, duties of officers, the Board, committees, order of business, amendment procedures, and other specific policies and procedures necessary for the group or its operation.

Writing the Rules on Amendments, Ratification, and Intrepretation

Expert Q&A

• The language contained in the constitutions and bylaws of university organizations is usually formal. Examples of a constitution and bylaws of a university organization are available here . These examples should help you determine what type of language you should use for your own constitution and bylaws. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0

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• ↑ https://www.cc-seas.columbia.edu/studentlife/groupres/newgroups/constitutions
• ↑ https://www.law.uci.edu/campus-life/student-organizations/registration/sample-constitution.html
• ↑ https://www.tamug.edu/stuact/StudentOrganizations/Docs/How%20to%20Write%20a%20Constitution.pdf
• ↑ https://www.ecsu.edu/current-students/student-affairs/student-engagement/files/howtowriteyourconstitutionbylaws.pdf
• ↑ https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/bylaws
• ↑ https://www.tasconline.org/writing-a-constitution
• ↑ https://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/constitutional-beginnings-making-amending-constitutions.pdf
• ↑ http://www.berkeleycitycollege.edu/wp/asbcc/files/2015/02/CONSTITUTION-APRIL-2014-FINAL.pdf
• ↑ https://www.equalrightsamendment.org/pathstoratification
• ↑ https://web.jhu.edu/studentlife/involved/student_orgs/old-OSI-leftovers/SAC/SAC%20Green%20Book/4-CONSTITUTION#article8

About This Article

The best way to write a constitution is to start with the preamble, followed by the name and purpose of the organization that the constitution references. Explain the organization’s rules concerning membership, meetings, and holding office. Write the rules on elections, committees, and by-laws. Finish the constitution with rules regarding amendments, ratification, and interpretation. For detailed suggestions from our Civil Litigation reviewer, including advice about how to develop the different articles of your constitution, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Purpose of Government and Preamble of Constitution Essay

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The Preamble of the US Constitution was written with absolutely little consideration. It was not brought up or addressed during the Constitutional Convention’s floor sessions. The final draft of the Constitution was written by Governor Morris, a delegate from Pennsylvania, who came up with the idea and registered it at the last minute. The Preamble distilled the objective of the Constitution. The Preamble was devoid of any clear legal significance or intent. Preambles should not be interpreted as granting or restricting authority or a legal precedent. Further, it assisted the Constitution’s drafters in establishing the overall tone of the document. This essay will therefore discuss the purpose of the US government based on the Preamble and why some societies would eventually develop into democracies.

A government is responsible for keeping its residents safe. Still, in dictatorships, where the emphasis is more on upholding the system, and in democracies, where it is on assuring security and preserving citizens’ rights, the purpose of maintaining order and security might differ (Barringer 6). The US government can uphold order and offer protection inside the state by establishing and defending the rule of law. This is referred to as “ensuring domestic Tranquility” in the Preamble to the Constitution. This tranquility involves providing institutions like the criminal justice system, whose job is to defend citizens against everything from bodily injury to property destruction or theft. Another crucial element in sustaining law and order is the civil court system, which the government established as a method for citizens to resolve conflicts.

The government stops assaults on its citizens by individuals or organizations outside its boundaries. The government’s responsibility for protection extends beyond ensuring internal safety. The Preamble is mentioned as “provide for the common defense” (Barringer 7). The state also provides security from outside dangers, which covers both apparent and hidden threats, such as cyber espionage. The US government can wage war and maintain a military for national defense. Engaging in diplomatic activities, ratifying treaties and other international accords, and designating ambassadors to other nations to advance the country and its interests, may also boost global security.

Under the Constitution’s Preamble, the government establishes the laws of the land. In the US, where democracy rules, it adheres to the rule of law, which ensures that everyone is subject to the same set of rules that both protect and constrain them. The Preamble of the Constitution quotes it as “establish Justice” (Barringer 7). According to this idea, nobody living within the country is exempt from the law. Everybody is treated equally under the law. First, it implies that the same rules bind everyone in society. All people have equal legal rights, and the judicial system is tasked with upholding the law equally for every community member. The law’s administrators are subject to the same standards as everyone else. The ruled and those in authority are both treated as equal and responsible.

Many societies have embraced democracy because it offers a framework for some proportional representation-based government, giving individuals the capacity to affect change via participation and influence the powerful to act in the public interest. Democratic societies recognize individuals as equal, a move for citizens’ inclusion in the running of governments, as it promotes peace and stability in a community by avoiding revolts and chaos.

In conclusion, according to the discussion of government purposes, it is evident that the Preamble defines a set of objectives for the successful governance of the nation and its distinct future. Additionally, it has frequently used the Preamble as an indication of the purpose, scope, and origin of the Constitution even though it does not provide any department of the Federal Government any authority. Instead of substantively establishing new powers, its fundamental role is to explain the nature, scope, and applications of the powers the Constitution grants.

Barringer, Richard. “American Democracy and Governance in a Polarized Era.” Maine Policy Review , vol. 30, no. 1, 2021, pp. 6-8.

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Indian Polity

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Preamble to the Indian Constitution

• 27 Jul 2020
• 10 min read
• GS Paper - 2
• Indian Constitution
• Constitutional Amendments

What is a Preamble?

• A preamble is an introductory statement in a document that explains the document’s philosophy and objectives.
• In a Constitution, it presents the intention of its framers, the history behind its creation, and the core values and principles of the nation.
• Source of the Constitution
• Nature of Indian State
• Statement of its objectives
• Date of its adoption

History of the Preamble to Indian Constitution

• The ideals behind the Preamble to India’s Constitution were laid down by Jawaharlal Nehru’s Objectives Resolution, adopted by the Constituent Assembly on January 22, 1947.
• Although not enforceable in court, the Preamble states the objectives of the Constitution, and acts as an aid during the interpretation of Articles when language is found ambiguous.

Components of Preamble

• It is indicated by the Preamble that the source of authority of the Constitution lies with the people of India.
• Preamble declares India to be a sovereign, socialist, secular and democratic republic.
• The objectives stated by the Preamble are to secure justice, liberty, equality to all citizens and promote fraternity to maintain unity and integrity of the nation.
• The date is mentioned in the preamble when it was adopted i.e. November 26, 1949.

Key words in the Preamble

• We, the people of India: It indicates the ultimate sovereignty of the people of India. Sovereignty means the independent authority of the State, not being subject to the control of any other State or external power.
• Sovereign: The term means that India has its own independent authority and it is not a dominion of any other external power. In the country, the legislature has the power to make laws which are subject to certain limitations.
• It was added in the Preamble by 42 nd Amendment, 1976.
• It was incorporated in the Preamble by 42 nd Constitutional Amendment, 1976.
• Democratic: The term implies that the Constitution of India has an established form of Constitution which gets its authority from the will of the people expressed in an election.
• Republic: The term indicates that the head of the state is elected by the people. In India, the President of India is the elected head of the state.

Objectives of the Indian Constitution

• The main objective of the Indian Constitution is to promote harmony throughout the nation.
• Social Justice – Social justice means that the Constitution wants to create a society without discrimination on any grounds like caste, creed, gender, religion, etc.
• Economic Justice – Economic Justice means no discrimination can be caused by people on the basis of their wealth, income, and economic status. Every person must be paid equally for an equal position and all people must get opportunities to earn for their living.
• Political Justice – Political Justice means all the people have an equal, free and fair right without any discrimination to participate in political opportunities.
• Equality: The term ‘Equality’ means no section of society has any special privileges and all the people have given equal opportunities for everything without any discriminations. Everyone is equal before the law.
• Liberty: The term ‘Liberty’ means freedom for the people to choose their way of life, have political views and behavior in society. Liberty does not mean freedom to do anything, a person can do anything but in the limit set by the law.
• Fraternity: The term ‘Fraternity’ means a feeling of brotherhood and an emotional attachment with the country and all the people. Fraternity helps to promote dignity and unity in the nation.
• Liberty cannot be divorced from equality, equality cannot be divorced from liberty. Nor can liberty and equality be divorced from fraternity.
• Without equality, liberty would produce the supremacy of the few over the many.
• Equality without liberty would kill individual initiative.
• Without fraternity, liberty would produce the supremacy of the few over the many.
• Without fraternity, liberty and equality could not become a natural course of things.

Status of Preamble

• Berubari Case: It was used as a reference under Article 143(1) of the Constitution which was on the implementation of the Indo-Pakistan Agreement related to the Berubari Union and in exchanging the enclaves which were decided for consideration by the bench consisting of eight judges.
• Through the Berubari case , the Court stated that ‘Preamble is the key to open the mind of the makers’ but it can not be considered as part of the Constitution. Therefore it is not enforceable in a court of law.
• The Preamble of the Constitution will now be considered as part of the Constitution.
• The Preamble is not the supreme power or source of any restriction or prohibition but it plays an important role in the interpretation of statutes and provisions of the Constitution.
• So, it can be concluded that preamble is part of the introductory part of the Constitution.
• In the 1995 case of Union Government Vs LIC of India also, the Supreme Court has once again held that Preamble is the integral part of the Constitution but is not directly enforceable in a court of justice in India.

Amendment of the Preamble

• As a part of the Constitution, preamble can be amended under Article 368 of the Constitution, but the basic structure of the preamble can not be amended.
• As of now, the preamble is only amended once through the 42 nd Amendment Act, 1976.
• ‘Socialist’ and ‘Secular’ were added between ‘Sovereign’ and ‘Democratic’.
• ‘Unity of the Nation’ was changed to ‘Unity and Integrity of the Nation’.
• Article 394 of the Constitution states that Articles 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 60, 324, 367, 379 and 394 came into force since the adoption of the Constitution on 26th November 1949 and the rest of the provisions on 26 th January 1950.
• The concept of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity in our Preamble was adopted from the French Motto of the French Revolution.

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Preamble to the Constitution of India

English Studies

This website is dedicated to English Literature, Literary Criticism, Literary Theory, English Language and its teaching and learning.

Preamble: A Literary Device

In literature, a preamble functions as a literary device by serving as an introductory statement that lays the groundwork for the themes and narratives that follow.

Preamble: Etymology, Literal and Conceptual Meanings

Table of Contents

The term “preamble” originates from the Latin word “praeambulus,” which means walking before. In a literary context, a preamble is an introductory statement that serves as a preliminary explanation or a prelude to a more extensive text. This term is commonly associated with legal and political documents, where it outlines the purpose, principles, and intentions that underpin the forthcoming content. Essentially, a preamble provides a foundational context, guiding readers into the core themes and objectives of what follows.

Literal Meanings

• Introduction: Serving as an initial section preceding the main body of a document.
• Explanatory Prelude: Offering a preliminary explanation or context.
• Beginning or Opening: Marking the starting point of a text.

Conceptual Meanings

• Foundational Framework: Establishing the fundamental principles or basis.
• Guiding Purpose: Setting the direction and intentions for the subsequent content.
• Contextual Significance: Providing a backdrop for better understanding.

Preamble: Definition as a Literary Device

In literature, a preamble functions as a literary device by serving as an introductory statement that lays the groundwork for the themes and narratives that follow. It acts as a literary prelude, establishing the tone , context , and overarching purpose of the subsequent text. This device provides readers with a foundational framework, guiding their understanding and expectations for the unfolding content.

Preamble: Examples in Everyday Life

Preamble in Literature: Examples

• Example: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times…”
• Example: “When he was nearly thirteen, my brother Jem got his arm badly broken at the elbow.”
• Example: “It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen.”
• Example: “Many years later, as he faced the firing squad, Colonel Aureliano Buendía was to remember that distant afternoon when his father took him to discover ice.”
• Example: “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.”
• Example: “In my younger and more vulnerable years, my father gave me some advice that I’ve been turning over in my mind ever since.”
• Example: “Call me Ishmael. Some years ago – never mind how long precisely – having little or no money in my purse, and nothing particular to interest me on shore, I thought I would sail about a little and see the watery part of the world.”
• Example: “Mr. and Mrs. Dursley, of number four, Privet Drive, were proud to say that they were perfectly normal, thank you very much.”
• Example: “It was a pleasure to burn.”
• Example: “Happy families are all alike; every unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.”

These examples showcase the diverse ways in which authors use a preamble or an introductory statement to set the stage for their literary works.

Preamble in Literature: Use in Literary Theories

In various literary theories, the preamble serves distinct roles, providing a starting point for analysis and interpretation within the respective theoretical frameworks.

Preamble: Relevant Terms

Preamble in Literature: Suggested Readings

• Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice . Penguin, 2003.
• Bradbury, Ray. Fahrenheit 451. Simon & Schuster, 2012.
• Dickens, Charles. A Tale of Two Cities. Oxford UP, 2008.
• Fitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby. Scribner, 2004.
• Garcia Marquez, Gabriel. One Hundred Years of Solitude. Harper, 2006.
• Rowling, J.K. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Bloomsbury, 2014.
• Lee, Harper. To Kill a Mockingbird. Harper Perennial Modern Classics, 2006.
• Melville, Herman. Moby-Dick. Vintage, 2003.
• Orwell, George. 1984 . Signet Classic, 1961.
• Tolstoy, Leo. Anna Karenina. Penguin, 2004.

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Examples Of The Preamble To The Constitution

Preamble To Justice Essay

Justice is a fundamental principle that lies at the heart of any just and fair society. It serves as the bedrock upon which a harmonious and equitable society is built. The preamble to justice encapsulates the essence of this principle, outlining the core values and principles that guide the pursuit of justice. In this essay, we will explore the significance of the preamble to justice and its relevance in shaping a just and inclusive society.

The preamble to justice embodies the vision of a society that upholds the values of fairness, equality, and the rule of law. It recognizes the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, irrespective of their background, status, or beliefs. By setting out clear principles and objectives, the preamble acts as a guiding light for lawmakers, judges, and citizens alike, ensuring that justice is not only blind but also compassionate.

One of the key elements outlined in the preamble to justice is the principle of equality. It emphasizes the need to treat every individual with fairness and impartiality, regardless of their race, gender, religion, or social status. This principle serves as a powerful reminder that justice should not be influenced by personal biases or prejudices. Instead, it should be based on objective and rational considerations, ensuring that everyone is afforded an equal opportunity to seek and receive justice.

Another crucial aspect of the preamble to justice is the principle of the rule of law. It underscores the importance of having a legal system that is transparent, accountable, and accessible to all. The rule of law ensures that no one is above the law and that legal decisions are made in accordance with established procedures and principles. By upholding the rule of law, societies can foster an environment of trust and confidence, where individuals can seek redress for their grievances and have faith in the fairness of the legal system.

Moreover, the preamble to justice highlights the significance of social justice and the need to address systemic inequalities. It recognizes that justice cannot be achieved in isolation but requires a holistic approach that takes into account the social, economic, and cultural factors that contribute to inequality. It calls for the creation of a society where resources are distributed equitably, and everyone has access to basic necessities, education, healthcare, and opportunities for personal growth. By striving for social justice, societies can bridge the gap between the privileged and the marginalized, fostering a more inclusive and egalitarian society.

In conclusion, the preamble to justice serves as a guiding framework for societies to establish and uphold principles of fairness, equality, and the rule of law. It provides a roadmap for building a just and inclusive society, where every individual is treated with dignity and respect. By adhering to the values enshrined in the preamble, societies can ensure that justice is not merely a theoretical concept but a tangible reality. It is through the pursuit of justice that we can create a world where everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive and contribute to the betterment of society.

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The Pros and Cons of an Unwritten Constitution in the UK Essay example

An unwritten constitution refers to a system of governance where the fundamental principles and rules governing a nation are not codified into a single, written document. Instead, these principles are derived from a combination of statutes, common law, conventions, and historical documents. This essay explores the advantages and disadvantages of having an unwritten constitution. One of the primary advantages of an unwritten constitution is its flexibility. Unlike a written constitution, which can be difficult to amend, an unwritten constitution allows for more agile responses to changing societal needs and values. This flexibility enables the legal system to adapt to unforeseen circumstances and evolving norms without the need for lengthy and cumbersome formal amendments. For example, in the United Kingdom, where an unwritten constitution is followed, the flexibility of the system has allowed for gradual reforms over time, such as the extension of voting rights and the recognition of new human rights. Another benefit of an unwritten constitution is its adaptability to cultural and historical contexts. Because it is not bound by a single written document, an unwritten constitution can incorporate customs, traditions, and precedents that are unique to a particular society. This allows for a legal system that reflects the values and identity of the people it governs, promoting a sense of national cohesion and legitimacy. In countries like the United Kingdom and New Zealand, the unwritten constitution has evolved organically over centuries, integrating principles of parliamentary sovereignty and the rule of law into the fabric of society. However, the flexibility and adaptability of an unwritten constitution can also be seen as a disadvantage. Without a clear, codified document outlining the fundamental principles of governance, there is a risk of ambiguity and uncertainty in the legal system. This ambiguity can lead to inconsistencies in judicial decisions and disputes over the interpretation of constitutional norms. Additionally, the lack of a written constitution may make it easier for governments to infringe upon individual rights and liberties, as there are no explicit provisions to protect them. In conclusion, an unwritten constitution offers both advantages and disadvantages. Its flexibility and adaptability allow for responsive governance that reflects the cultural and historical context of a society. However, the lack of clarity and explicit protections may lead to uncertainty and potential abuses of power. Ultimately, whether an unwritten constitution is preferable depends on the unique circumstances and values of a particular nation....

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The Preamble Of The United States Constitution

The Preamble of the United States Constitution serves as a foundational statement, encapsulating the core principles and objectives upon which the nation was built. It begins with the iconic phrase, "We the People," signifying the collective authority and responsibility of the citizens in shaping the governance of their nation. This phrase embodies the democratic ideals of popular sovereignty and civic participation, highlighting the fundamental principle that the government derives its legitimacy from the consent of the governed. Moreover, the Preamble outlines the overarching goals of the Constitution, which include establishing justice, ensuring domestic tranquility, providing for the common defense, promoting the general welfare, and securing the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity. These objectives underscore the commitment to fostering a just and equitable society, maintaining peace and stability within the nation, safeguarding the security of its citizens, and promoting the well-being and prosperity of all individuals. In addition to delineating the aims of the Constitution, the Preamble emphasizes the intergenerational aspect of governance by referencing "our posterity." This forward-looking perspective underscores the enduring nature of the Constitution and its relevance for future generations, highlighting the responsibility to preserve and uphold the principles enshrined within it. By invoking the concept of posterity, the Preamble underscores the notion of continuity and the imperative of ensuring that the ideals of liberty, justice, and democracy endure for years to come. Furthermore, the Preamble serves as a unifying force, bringing together the diverse populace of the United States under a common vision and purpose. Regardless of individual differences, the Preamble reminds citizens of their shared values and aspirations as members of a collective body politic. It fosters a sense of national identity and solidarity, transcending regional, ethnic, and ideological divisions, and reinforcing the notion of E pluribus unum – out of many, one. In conclusion, the Preamble of the United States Constitution encapsulates the foundational principles, objectives, and aspirations of the nation. Through its succinct yet comprehensive language, it reaffirms the ideals of democracy, justice, liberty, and unity that have guided the American experiment since its inception. As a timeless statement of purpose, the Preamble continues to serve as a lodestar for the nation, inspiring successive generations to strive towards a more perfect union....

Examples Of Preamble Essay

The preamble of a document serves as an introductory statement that outlines the purpose, goals, and underlying principles of the document itself. Throughout history, various documents have employed preambles to provide context and set the tone for the ensuing content. In this essay, we will examine several examples of preambles from different contexts, analyzing their significance and rhetorical strategies. One notable example of a preamble can be found in the United States Constitution. The preamble of the Constitution begins with the iconic phrase, "We the People," which immediately establishes the document's focus on collective governance and democratic principles. By invoking the authority of the people, the preamble emphasizes the participatory nature of the American political system and underscores the idea of government legitimacy derived from popular consent. Furthermore, the preamble articulates the overarching goals of the Constitution, such as establishing justice, ensuring domestic tranquility, providing for the common defense, promoting the general welfare, and securing the blessings of liberty. Through concise yet powerful language, the preamble encapsulates the aspirations of the newly formed nation and lays the foundation for the subsequent articles of the Constitution. Another compelling example of a preamble can be found in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). Adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948, the UDHR represents a landmark document in the realm of international human rights law. The preamble of the UDHR begins by affirming the inherent dignity and equal rights of all members of the human family, echoing principles of universality and equality. Moreover, the preamble acknowledges the significance of freedom, justice, and peace in the world, emphasizing the importance of promoting respect for human rights without discrimination. Through its inclusive language and moral imperative, the preamble of the UDHR lays the groundwork for the subsequent articles, which enumerate specific rights and freedoms to be protected and upheld by all nations. In conclusion, preambles play a crucial role in framing the overarching objectives and principles of legal and political documents. Whether in the context of national constitutions or international declarations, preambles serve as guiding statements that articulate shared values, aspirations, and commitments. By analyzing examples such as the preamble of the United States Constitution and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, we gain insight into the rhetorical strategies employed to convey complex ideas and inspire collective action. Ultimately, preambles serve as foundational texts that shape the interpretation and implementation of legal frameworks, contributing to the promotion of justice, equality, and human dignity on both national and global scales....

Examples Of Federalism Under The Constitution Dbq

Federalism, as outlined in the United States Constitution, is a system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and various constituent units. This division of power ensures a balance between national authority and state autonomy, allowing for efficient governance while also preserving individual rights and state sovereignty. The Constitution itself serves as a prime example of federalism in action, as it establishes a framework for cooperation and shared authority between the federal government and the states. One key example of federalism under the Constitution is the system of dual sovereignty, which grants specific powers to both the federal government and the states. This division of powers is clearly outlined in the text of the Constitution, with certain powers reserved exclusively for the federal government (such as the power to declare war or regulate interstate commerce) and others left to the states (such as the power to establish local governments or regulate intrastate commerce). This dual sovereignty ensures that neither the federal government nor the states have unchecked power, promoting a system of checks and balances that prevents any one entity from becoming too dominant. Another example of federalism under the Constitution can be seen in the concept of federal mandates. These mandates are requirements imposed by the federal government on state and local governments, often in the form of regulations or funding conditions. While some argue that federal mandates infringe on state autonomy, others view them as a necessary tool for ensuring uniformity and consistency in areas such as public health, education, and environmental protection. The tension between federal mandates and state sovereignty exemplifies the complex interplay of powers and responsibilities inherent in the federal system. Furthermore, the system of federalism under the Constitution allows for flexibility and adaptation to changing circumstances. As societal needs and priorities evolve, the balance of power between the federal government and the states can be adjusted through mechanisms such as Supreme Court decisions, congressional legislation, and state initiatives. This dynamic nature of federalism ensures that the system remains responsive to the diverse needs of the American people while upholding the principles of democracy, equality, and individual liberty enshrined in the Constitution. In conclusion, the examples of federalism under the Constitution demonstrate the intricate web of relationships and responsibilities that define the American system of government. By balancing national authority with state autonomy, promoting dual sovereignty, addressing federal mandates, and allowing for flexibility and adaptation, federalism under the Constitution has proven to be a resilient and effective framework for governance in the United States....

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Similarities Between Iroquois Constitution And Us Constitution

The Similarities Between the Iroquois Constitution and the US Constitution The Iroquois Confederacy, also known as the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, holds a significant place in the history of Native American governance and political philosophy. Among its many contributions is the drafting of the Great Law of Peace, also known as the Iroquois Constitution. Despite being developed long before the establishment of the United States, the Iroquois Constitution shares notable similarities with the US Constitution. These similarities reflect common principles of governance and provide insights into the evolution of democratic thought. One striking similarity between the Iroquois Constitution and the US Constitution is the emphasis on the balance of powers. In both systems, power is distributed among multiple branches of government to prevent any one entity from becoming too dominant. The Iroquois Confederacy divided power among the Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, and Seneca nations, each with its own responsibilities and authority. Similarly, the US Constitution establishes separate branches of government – executive, legislative, and judicial – with distinct powers and functions. This balance of powers is intended to ensure accountability, prevent tyranny, and promote the rule of law. Another parallel between the two constitutions is the recognition of individual rights and freedoms. While the Iroquois Constitution predates the US Constitution by centuries, it enshrines principles of liberty and equality that resonate with the American experience. For instance, both documents emphasize the importance of due process, fair treatment, and protection against arbitrary authority. Moreover, they recognize the rights of individuals to participate in decision-making processes, whether through representation in tribal councils or elected government bodies. These shared values reflect a commitment to democratic principles and the dignity of all people. Additionally, both the Iroquois Constitution and the US Constitution incorporate mechanisms for amendment and adaptation. Recognizing that societies evolve and circumstances change, these documents provide procedures for modifying their provisions to reflect new realities and address emerging challenges. The Iroquois Confederacy employed a process of consensus-building among its member nations to amend the Great Law of Peace, ensuring that decisions were made collectively and with the consent of all parties involved. Similarly, the US Constitution includes provisions for amendment through a deliberate process involving Congress and the states, reflecting a commitment to democratic governance and the rule of law. In conclusion, the similarities between the Iroquois Constitution and the US Constitution underscore the enduring principles of democracy, balance of powers, individual rights, and adaptability. Despite their differences in origins and contexts, both documents reflect a shared commitment to creating systems of government that promote justice, equality, and the common good. By studying these similarities, we gain a deeper understanding of the foundations of democratic governance and the ongoing quest for a more perfect union....

U.S. Constitution vs. Texas Constitution Essay

The United States Constitution and the Texas Constitution are both foundational documents that establish the framework of government and outline the rights and responsibilities of citizens. While they share similarities in structure and purpose, there are notable differences between the two documents that reflect the unique historical, political, and cultural contexts of the United States as a whole and the state of Texas specifically. One key difference between the U.S. Constitution and the Texas Constitution lies in their origins and historical development. The U.S. Constitution was drafted in 1787 during the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, following the American Revolutionary War, and ratified by the original thirteen states. In contrast, the Texas Constitution has been revised multiple times since its original adoption in 1845, reflecting the state's transition from a territory to an independent republic and eventually to statehood within the United States. The Texas Constitution embodies the state's distinct history, including provisions related to its status as a former independent nation and the unique challenges faced by its diverse population. Another difference between the two constitutions is their respective scopes and structures. The U.S. Constitution is a relatively concise document consisting of a preamble and seven articles that outline the powers and functions of the federal government, as well as the rights of citizens. In contrast, the Texas Constitution is much longer and more detailed, with numerous amendments addressing specific policy issues and administrative matters. This reflects the decentralized nature of governance in the United States, where states retain considerable autonomy and authority to govern their internal affairs according to their own constitutions and laws. Additionally, the U.S. Constitution and the Texas Constitution differ in their treatment of certain issues and provisions. For example, the U.S. Constitution includes the Bill of Rights as the first ten amendments, guaranteeing fundamental rights such as freedom of speech, religion, and assembly. While the Texas Constitution also includes a Bill of Rights, it contains additional provisions tailored to the state's unique legal and political landscape, such as protections for private property rights and limitations on state debt. In conclusion, while the U.S. Constitution and the Texas Constitution share common principles and objectives, they reflect distinct historical, political, and cultural contexts. The U.S. Constitution serves as the supreme law of the land, establishing the framework of government at the federal level, while the Texas Constitution governs the operations of state government and reflects the values and priorities of the people of Texas. Despite their differences, both constitutions play vital roles in shaping the political and legal systems of their respective jurisdictions and safeguarding the rights and liberties of citizens....

• Political Economy

Compare And Contrast Nevada Constitution And Us Constitution

The Constitution of the United States and the Nevada Constitution, while sharing common principles, demonstrate distinct characteristics reflective of their respective contexts and historical backgrounds. Both documents serve as foundational legal frameworks, outlining the structure of government, delineating rights and responsibilities, and establishing mechanisms for governance. However, examining their provisions reveals notable differences in scope, detail, and emphasis, highlighting the unique priorities and values of each jurisdiction. The United States Constitution, ratified in 1788, remains the supreme law of the land, embodying the principles of federalism, separation of powers, and individual rights. Its concise yet comprehensive structure delineates the powers of the federal government, including the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. The Constitution's Bill of Rights guarantees fundamental freedoms and protections to all citizens, such as freedom of speech, religion, and the right to a fair trial. Moreover, its system of checks and balances ensures that no single branch of government becomes too powerful, safeguarding against tyranny and abuse of authority. In contrast, the Nevada Constitution, adopted in 1864 and revised in 1866 and 1960, reflects the unique circumstances and priorities of the state. While mirroring the federal structure with its executive, legislative, and judicial branches, the Nevada Constitution also addresses specific issues relevant to the state's governance and history. For instance, it includes provisions regarding water rights, mining regulations, and the establishment of counties, reflecting Nevada's reliance on natural resources and its frontier origins. Additionally, the Nevada Constitution affirms certain rights not explicitly enumerated in the U.S. Constitution, such as the right to a secret ballot and the right to pursue happiness, demonstrating a commitment to broader individual liberties. Despite their differences, both constitutions embody democratic principles and provide mechanisms for amendment and adaptation to changing circumstances. While the U.S. Constitution sets the framework for the federal government and establishes fundamental rights applicable nationwide, the Nevada Constitution supplements these provisions with state-specific regulations and protections tailored to the needs of its citizens. Together, these documents exemplify the enduring significance of constitutional governance in ensuring liberty, justice, and the rule of law at both the national and state levels....

Example Of A Rhetorical Essay Examples

Rhetorical essays are a powerful form of academic writing that aim to persuade and inform readers through the use of rhetorical devices and persuasive techniques. These essays often analyze the effectiveness of a particular argument or piece of writing, dissecting the author's use of language, structure, and persuasion to convey their message. To illustrate the structure and content of a rhetorical essay, let's consider an example that analyzes Martin Luther King Jr.'s famous "I Have a Dream" speech. In his iconic speech delivered during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. employed a wide range of rhetorical devices to captivate his audience and convey his message of racial equality and justice. One such device is repetition, which King used to great effect throughout his speech. By repeating the phrase "I have a dream" at key moments, King emphasized the vision of a better future for African Americans, reinforcing the urgency and importance of his message. Additionally, King utilized powerful imagery to evoke emotions and create vivid mental pictures for his audience. For example, when he spoke of "the red hills of Georgia" and "the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners," King painted a poignant picture of a nation grappling with its history of racial injustice. This imagery served to humanize the struggle for civil rights and underscored the shared humanity of all people, regardless of race or background. Moreover, King's use of parallelism and antithesis added depth and complexity to his argument. By juxtaposing phrases such as "segregated by day and harassed by night" and "transforming the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood," King highlighted the contradictions and injustices inherent in American society while offering a vision of hope and reconciliation. Furthermore, King's speech exemplifies the power of rhetorical appeals, including ethos, pathos, and logos. Through his ethos, or credibility as a leader of the civil rights movement, King established himself as a trustworthy and authoritative voice on the issue of racial equality. His use of pathos, or emotional appeal, evoked feelings of empathy and solidarity among his audience, fostering a sense of unity and purpose. Finally, King appealed to logos, or logic and reason, by presenting compelling arguments supported by evidence and historical precedent. In conclusion, Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech serves as a compelling example of rhetorical excellence, showcasing the effective use of rhetorical devices and persuasive techniques to convey a powerful message of hope, unity, and justice. By analyzing King's speech through the lens of rhetorical analysis, we gain insight into the art of persuasion and the enduring power of language to inspire change and ignite social movements....

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We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

The Preamble introduces the American Constitution. 1 Footnote See U.S. Const. pmbl. Its majestic words are the first words people see when they read the Constitution, and it is a common ritual that school children throughout the Nation memorize the Preamble when learning about the Nation’s Founding document. 2 Footnote See Henry Conserva , Understanding the Constitution 7 (2011) . The Preamble itself imparts three central concepts to the reader: (1) the source of power to enact the Constitution (i.e., “the People of the United States” ); (2) the broad ends to which the Constitution is “ordain[ed] and establish[ed]” ; and (3) the authors’ intent for the Constitution to be a legal instrument of lasting “Posterity.” 3 Footnote U.S. Const. pmbl. Yet, as discussed in more detail below, the Preamble’s origins and its continued relevance in constitutional law are unclear and, for many people, unknown.

The uncertainty surrounding the Preamble may be surprising, as the Constitution’s introduction would seem central to any debate over the document’s meaning. And, in fact, at least two of the Founding Fathers appeared to view the Preamble as an important feature of the document critical to the legal framework it established. James Monroe, as a delegate to the Virginia ratifying convention, referred to the Preamble as the “Key of the Constitution,” 4 Footnote See James Monroe , The Writings of James Monroe: 1778–1794 , at 356 (Stanislaus Murray Hamilton ed., 1898) . and Alexander Hamilton argued in the Federalist No. 84 that the existence of the Preamble obviated any need for a bill of rights. 5 Footnote See The Federalist No. 84 (Alexander Hamilton) . Nonetheless, the Preamble was not the subject of any extensive debate at the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, having been added to the Constitution as an apparent afterthought during the final drafting process. 6 Footnote See Dennis J. Mahoney , Preamble , in 3 Encyclopedia of the American Constitution 1435 (Leonard W. Levy et al. eds., 1986) (noting “there is no record of any objection to the Preamble as it was reported by the committee” ).

In the years following the Constitution’s enactment, the Supreme Court of the United States cited the Preamble in several important judicial decisions, 7 Footnote See, e.g. , McCulloch v. Maryland, 17 U.S. (4 Wheat.) 316, 403–05 (1819) ; Martin v. Hunter’s Lessee, 14 U.S. (1 Wheat.) 304, 324–25 (1816) ; Chisholm v. Georgia, 2 U.S. (Dall.) 419, 463 (1793) (Wilson, J., concurring); id. at 474–75 (Jay, C.J., concurring). but the legal weight of the Preamble was largely disclaimed. As Justice Joseph Story noted in his Commentaries , the Preamble “never can be resorted to, to enlarge the powers confided to the general government, or any of its departments.” 8 Footnote See I Joseph Story , Commentaries on the Constitution of the United States § 462 (1833) . The Supreme Court subsequently endorsed Justice Story’s view of the Preamble, holding in Jacobson v. Massachusetts that, while the Constitution’s introductory paragraph “indicates the general purposes for which the people ordained and established the Constitution, it has never been regarded by the Court as the source of any substantive power conferred on” the federal government. 9 Footnote 197 U.S. 11, 22 (1905) . Nonetheless, while the Court has not viewed the Preamble as having any direct, substantive legal effect, the Court has referenced the broad precepts of the Constitution’s introduction to confirm and reinforce its interpretation of other provisions within the document. 10 Footnote See, e.g. , Ariz. State Legis. v. Ariz. Indep. Redistricting Comm’n , 135 S. Ct. 2652, 2675 (2015) (justifying the constitutional legitimacy of the modern initiative process by noting that the “fundamental instrument of government derives its authority from “We the People” ” ); Holder v. Humanitarian Law Project , 561 U.S. 1 , 40 (2010) (upholding a law criminalizing the provision of certain forms of material support to terrorist organizations against a First and Fifth Amendment challenge, and noting that “The Preamble to the Constitution proclaims that the people of the United States ordained and established that charter of government in part to ‘provide for the common defence.’” ); U.S. Term Limits v. Thornton, 514 U.S. 779, 838 (1995) ( “[A]llowing individual States to craft their own qualifications for Congress would thus erode the structure envisioned by the Framers, a structure that was designed, in the words of the Preamble to our Constitution, to form a ‘more perfect Union.’” ); McCulloch , 17 U.S. (4 Wheat.) at 403 (rejecting the argument that the powers of the federal government must be exercised in subordination to the states because the federal “government proceeds directly from the people; is ‘ordained and established,’ in the name of the people; and is declared to be ordained, ‘in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquillity, and secure the blessings of liberty to themselves and to their posterity’” ). As such, while the Preamble does not have any specific legal status, Justice Story’s observation that the “true office” of the Preamble is “to expound the nature, and extent, and application of the powers actually conferred by the Constitution” appears to capture its import. 11 Footnote See Story , supra note 8, § 462 . More broadly, while the Preamble may have little significance in a court of law, the preface to the Constitution remains an important part of the Nation’s constitutional dialogue, inspiring and fostering broader understandings of the American system of government. In this vein, this essay considers the origins of the Preamble, exploring its historical roots and how it came to be a part of the Constitution, before discussing the legal and practical significance of the Constitution’s opening words in the time since the ratification.

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W.B Yeats Notes & 2024 Sample Essay HL LC (Bundle)

Subject: English

Age range: 16+

Resource type: Assessment and revision

Last updated

19 August 2024

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A full working unit on W.B Yeats for HL Leaving Certificate Students. This bundle contains a PDF and Ppt. The Ppt is the lesson content and the PDF can be used as an accompaniment to each lesson and/or study notes for exams and essays!

This bundle contains:

• Student Activities
• Comprehension Questions
• Poetry Analysis and Poetic Technique Notes of 6 Poems: The Lake Isle of Innisfree, The Wild Swans at Coole, An Irish Airman Foresees His Death, September 1913, Easter 1916 and Sailing to Byzantium
• Notes on Stylistic Features
• Sample 2024 Essay

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