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 7

Article VII: Ratification of the Constitution

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

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Article

Original Constitutional Text

"The Ratification of the Conventions of nine States, shall be sufficient for the Establishment of this Constitution between the States so ratifying the Same."

Simplified Explanation

Article VII details the historical requirements for bringing the U.S. Constitution into effect in 1787, shifting power away from the Articles of Confederation.

Key Clauses & Legal Precedents

The Nine-State Requirement

To establish the Constitution, 9 of the original 13 states had to ratify it through state conventions of the people. This gave the new Constitution its democratic authority directly from citizens, rather than state legislatures.

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.