The United States Constitution is the supreme law of the United States of America.

It was adopted on September 17, 1787, and it went into effect on March 4, 1789,
when the first Congress convened. The Constitution serves as the framework for the
federal government and outlines the basic structure of the U.S. government, the
powers and responsibilities of its branches, and the rights and liberties of its
citizens.

The Constitution is composed of a preamble and seven articles, which outline the
following:

1. Preamble: The opening statement that sets out the goals and purposes of the
Constitution, including establishing justice, ensuring domestic tranquility,
providing for the common defense, promoting the general welfare, and securing the
blessings of liberty for all.

2. Article I: This article establishes the legislative branch of the federal

government, consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives. It outlines
the powers and responsibilities of Congress, including the authority to make laws
and control spending.

3. Article II: This article establishes the executive branch of the federal
government, with the President as its head. It outlines the powers and duties of
the President, including the role of Commander-in-Chief of the military.

4. Article III: This article establishes the judicial branch of the federal
government, including the Supreme Court. It outlines the jurisdiction of the
federal courts and the power of judicial review.

5. Article IV: This article deals with the relationship between the states and the
federal government. It includes the Full Faith and Credit Clause, which requires
states to recognize each other's laws and court decisions.

6. Article V: This article outlines the process for amending the Constitution,
allowing for changes and additions to be made over time.

7. Article VI: This article establishes the supremacy of the Constitution, federal
laws, and treaties over state laws. It also includes an oath of office for
government officials.

8. Article VII: This article outlines the process for ratifying the Constitution,
which required the approval of at least nine of the thirteen original states.

The first ten amendments to the Constitution, known as the Bill of Rights, were
added shortly after its ratification in 1791 to protect individual liberties and
limit the powers of the federal government.

The United States Constitution has played a foundational role in shaping the
American government and legal system, and it continues to be a vital document in
American politics and governance. It is often considered one of the oldest written
national constitutions still in use.