What is the United States Constitution? The Constitution is made up of four pages of parchment paper that we, the people of America, hold to be the highest law in the land. Constructed and signed in September of 1787, the Constitution surprisingly was not ratified until 1788 (Constitution Day). Of the fifty five delegates, only thirty nine signed the Constitution (Constitution Day). Also, it is fairly odd to note that the constitution of one of if not the most powerful countries in the world, compared with other national constitutions, is the oldest, and shortest in existence. More importantly however, is what is actually written on those four pages. The document is organized by articles and amendments, and includes a short preamble. There …show more content…
Unfortunately, besides learning about it in one of my early history classes, the Constitution is rarely, if ever, brought up in normal conversation. The research I have done for this paper has not only expanded my knowledge and understanding of the Constitution, but has also given me the tools to answer the question, why does the Constitution matter to me? Overall, the U.S. Constitution provides equality and freedom for all Americans. It promises protection from possible harm by the government and other countries, as well as provide us with a fair and orderly justice system. I certainly recognize and appreciate these qualities, as they are the prominent reason why our country is where we are today. Most important to me, however, is the Constitution’s freedom of speech and individual rights aspects. I know that, even though I am just an average American, not greater or less than any other person, I still have rights, rights to say what I want, and to believe in what I believe. This part of the Constitution allows me to make my own choices, and not align my values and beliefs with any person of power or influence. So why is that important? This allows me, to be me. I do not need to hide my personality, thoughts, or beliefs under a mask, like individuals in other countries right now. Without these protected rights, our country would not stand unified, and life for the average individual would lack meaning and self worth. How can we all be contribute to society in our unique ways if we are all told to think the same