The Constitution of the United States of America is commonly known as a living document. As such, changes in governmental policy are expected, and occur frequently. However, many rights Americans enjoy today were interpreted by a specific branch of the federal government. A considerable portion of the federal government's power is either implied within the Constitution, or has been added through amendments. Also, an increase in terrorist activities affecting the United States have expanded the powers originally outlined by the Constitution. Therefore, judicial interpretation, the amendment process, and America's increased presence in foreign affairs are all ways interpretation of the Constitution has influenced Americans. Checks and balances are a critical element of the Constitution. The judicial branch granted themselves with the power of judicial review, in the famous court case Marbury v. Madison. With this power, the judiciary has the ability to "check" the actions of their fellow branches, the executive and legislative branches. Judicial review was interpreted from the judges' understanding of the Constitution. This power impacts American citizens profoundly. Now, the courts have the right to overturn laws when they are presented in court. For example, in the case …show more content…
Since their passing, seventeen additional amendments have been added. For example. the fourteenth amendment provides Americans with equal protection under the law and due process. This amendment is as relevant in today's society as it was in years directly following the Civil War. Right after the ending of the war, the fourteenth amendment granted citizenship to former slaves, and protected their individual rights. This forever changed the way American society functioned. Today, this amendment helps minorities, females, and members of the LGBT community in their fight for