What is the primary function of the U.S. Constitution?

The U.S. Constitution is the supreme law of the United States. It creates the legal framework for the federal government, establishes the separation of powers across three branches, and guarantees fundamental rights to all individuals.

How many Articles and Amendments does the U.S. Constitution have?

The U.S. Constitution consists of 7 original Articles establishing the structure of government and federalism, and 27 ratified Amendments (the first 10 being the Bill of Rights).

What is the Supremacy Clause in Article VI?

Article VI, Clause 2 dictates that the U.S. Constitution, federal statutes, and U.S. treaties take precedence over any conflicting state or local laws.

How can the U.S. Constitution be amended under Article V?

An amendment can be proposed by a 2/3 vote in both houses of Congress or by a constitutional convention requested by 2/3 of state legislatures. It requires ratification by 3/4 of the states (38 states).

Do non-citizens have constitutional rights under the U.S. Constitution?

Yes. Key provisions—including the 5th and 14th Amendment Due Process and Equal Protection Clauses and the 4th Amendment search protections—apply to 'persons,' granting legal rights to citizens and non-citizens alike.

What is the doctrine of Judicial Review?

Judicial Review is the power of federal courts, led by the Supreme Court (established in Marbury v. Madison), to review and strike down executive or legislative actions that violate the Constitution.

Home/USA/Constitution/Article/Article 1

Article I: The Legislative Branch (Congress)

Full text, legal breakdown, and practical explanations of constitutional laws.

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Article

Original Constitutional Text

"All legislative Powers herein granted shall be vested in a Congress of the United States, which shall consist of a Senate and House of Representatives..."

Simplified Explanation

Article I establishes the U.S. Congress, split into a bicameral legislature: the House of Representatives (representing the population of states) and the Senate (representing each state equally with 2 senators). It dictates how laws are proposed, debated, and voted on.

Key Clauses & Legal Precedents

Section 8: Enumerated Powers of Congress

Section 8 is the most critical part of Article I. It lists the specific powers of Congress, including: the power to lay and collect taxes, borrow money, regulate international and interstate commerce (the Commerce Clause), coin money, establish post offices, and declare war.

The Necessary and Proper Clause

Found at the end of Section 8, this clause (also known as the Elastic Clause) allows Congress to pass all laws that are "necessary and proper" to carry out its enumerated powers, giving the federal government flexibility to adapt to modern issues.

Official Legal & Government Sources

• Library of Congress Constitution Annotated: constitution.congress.gov
• National Archives America's Founding Documents: archives.gov/founding-docs
• Supreme Court of the United States Opinions: supremecourt.gov

Constitutional Authority

The U.S. Constitution has been amended only 27 times since 1787. The first 10 amendments constitute the Bill of Rights. Any change to the Constitution requires approval by 2/3 of both houses of Congress and ratification by 3/4 of the states.

Related Constitutional Guides

Legal Disclaimer

Constitutional jurisprudence is dynamic and subject to ongoing Supreme Court interpretations. For specific civil rights claims or legal defense, consult with a licensed constitutional lawyer.