The United States Constitution has been amended 27 times since its ratification in 1789. These amendments reflect the evolving values, rights, and governance of the nation. Here’s a breakdown:
📜 The Bill of Rights (Amendments 1–10, ratified in 1791)
These protect individual liberties and limit government power:
- 1st: Freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition
- 2nd: Right to bear arms
- 3rd: No quartering of soldiers in private homes
- 4th: Protection against unreasonable searches and seizures
- 5th: Rights in criminal cases (due process, no double jeopardy, etc.)
- 6th: Right to a fair and speedy trial
- 7th: Right to trial by jury in civil cases
- 8th: No cruel or unusual punishment
- 9th: Rights not listed are still retained by the people
- 10th: Powers not given to the federal government are reserved for states or people
⚖️ Key Later Amendments
- 13th (1865): Abolished slavery
- 14th (1868): Equal protection under the law and citizenship rights
- 15th (1870): Voting rights regardless of race
- 16th (1913): Federal income tax authorized
- 17th (1913): Direct election of Senators
- 18th (1919): Prohibition of alcohol (later repealed)
- 19th (1920): Women’s right to vote
- 21st (1933): Repealed Prohibition
- 22nd (1951): Presidential term limits (two terms)
- 26th (1971): Voting age lowered to 18
- 27th (1992): Limits on congressional pay changes
Lesson Learning 