The Preamble sets forth the fundamental purposes of the Constitution, stating goals such as forming a more perfect union. It serves as an introduction that outlines the objectives of the government.

The legislative branch, composed of Congress, is tasked with writing and enacting laws. This function is a cornerstone of the U.S. system of government.

The Bill of Rights is comprised of the first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution. These amendments provide essential protections for individual freedoms.

An amendment is a formal change or addition made to the Constitution. This process allows the document to adapt over time to new needs and challenges.

James Madison is widely recognized as the 'Father of the Constitution' because of his pivotal role in drafting and promoting the document. His contributions significantly shaped the structure of the federal government.

The Constitution explicitly grants Congress the power to declare war, which is a critical aspect of its legislative authority. This power exemplifies the checks placed on executive decisions in matters of national security.

The principle of separation of powers divides government responsibilities among distinct branches. This system is designed to prevent the concentration of power and promote a balanced government.

The judicial branch is responsible for interpreting laws and ensuring they are applied according to the Constitution. Its role is essential for maintaining the system of checks and balances.

The Supremacy Clause ensures that federal law takes precedence over conflicting state laws, establishing a unified legal framework for the nation. This clause is key to the federal structure of government.

The First Amendment protects freedom of speech, along with other basic liberties such as freedom of religion and the press. This amendment is a fundamental element of American democratic values.

Amending the Constitution is a rigorous process that involves a proposal by Congress and subsequent ratification by the states. This ensures that any changes reflect a broad consensus among the people and their representatives.

The Articles of Confederation were the first governing document of the United States and highlighted the need for a stronger central government. Lessons learned from its limitations directly influenced the drafting of the U.S. Constitution.

Checks and balances are designed so that each branch of government can limit the powers of the others. This system is essential to prevent any branch from dominating the government and to protect democratic principles.

The Fourth Amendment safeguards against arbitrary searches and seizures by requiring warrants based on probable cause. This protection is a critical component of individual privacy rights under the Constitution.

Enumerated powers are those specifically listed in the Constitution as belonging to the federal government, particularly to Congress. This clear delineation helps limit government authority to what is explicitly authorized.

Judicial review, established in Marbury v. Madison, enables the courts to determine whether laws and executive actions are constitutional. This power is fundamental in upholding the rule of law and maintaining a balance among the branches.

Federalism is the system in which power is shared between a central government and regional governments. This division allows for both national unity and local autonomy, ensuring that different levels of government can address issues effectively.

Popular sovereignty means that the power and legitimacy of the government come directly from the people. This principle is fundamental to democracy and reinforces the idea that citizens are the ultimate source of governmental authority.

The executive branch, headed by the President, plays a key role in the legislative process by wielding the veto power. This function acts as a check on Congress, ensuring that legislation is thoroughly considered before becoming law.

The vigorous debates between Federalists and Anti-Federalists were instrumental in refining the U.S. Constitution. Their discussions led to a system of checks and balances and prompted the addition of the Bill of Rights to safeguard individual liberties.