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The United States Constitution
A Spoutible Thread Tour of the Text
Today is the 236th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787. This is a document that is revered, yet not highly understood.
On this Constitution Day, let us take a tour through what it says...
A Spoutible Thread Tour of the Text
Today is the 236th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787. This is a document that is revered, yet not highly understood.
On this Constitution Day, let us take a tour through what it says...
10:34 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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The U.S. Constitution consists of a preamble, seven articles, and 27 amendments, altogether laying out the principle of power vested in the people, the structure and functions of the federal government, and other rules strengthening this great nation. You can read the full text via the link below.
10:35 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Preamble
This states that we the people are establishing the Constitution, for purposes related to forming a more perfect union, justice, general welfare, domestic tranquility, common defense, and securing the blessings of liberty. The text that follows is about how we do this.
This states that we the people are establishing the Constitution, for purposes related to forming a more perfect union, justice, general welfare, domestic tranquility, common defense, and securing the blessings of liberty. The text that follows is about how we do this.
10:35 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article I, Section 1
"All legislative Powers herein granted shall be vested in a Congress of the United States, which shall consist of a Senate and House of Representatives."
This may be just one sentence, but it makes clear the government body in charge of creating laws.
"All legislative Powers herein granted shall be vested in a Congress of the United States, which shall consist of a Senate and House of Representatives."
This may be just one sentence, but it makes clear the government body in charge of creating laws.
10:35 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article I, Section 2
This describes things about the U.S. House of Representatives, like its elections every two years, age and citizenship requirements (25 years and 7 years, respectively), the number of Representatives total (no more than 1 per 30,000), and impeachment power.
This describes things about the U.S. House of Representatives, like its elections every two years, age and citizenship requirements (25 years and 7 years, respectively), the number of Representatives total (no more than 1 per 30,000), and impeachment power.
10:36 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article I, Section 3
This describes stuff about the U.S. Senate, like 2 senators per state, elections every 6 years for 1/3rd of Senate, age and citizenship requirements (30 years and 9 years, respectively), U.S. Vice President for vote tie breaks, and impeachment trial power.
This describes stuff about the U.S. Senate, like 2 senators per state, elections every 6 years for 1/3rd of Senate, age and citizenship requirements (30 years and 9 years, respectively), U.S. Vice President for vote tie breaks, and impeachment trial power.
10:36 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article I, Section 4
Two things about elections:
1. State legislatures are in charge of the times, places, and manners of elections for Representatives and Senators, though Congress can also weigh in
2. When a session of Congress begins (originally the 1st Monday of December)
Two things about elections:
1. State legislatures are in charge of the times, places, and manners of elections for Representatives and Senators, though Congress can also weigh in
2. When a session of Congress begins (originally the 1st Monday of December)
10:37 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article I, Section 5
Each chamber of Congress sets their own rules for proceedings, punishes members for bad behavior, expels members with 2/3rds vote, and maintains a journal of proceedings.
The last line is a bit about when a chamber can adjourn during a session of Congress.
Each chamber of Congress sets their own rules for proceedings, punishes members for bad behavior, expels members with 2/3rds vote, and maintains a journal of proceedings.
The last line is a bit about when a chamber can adjourn during a session of Congress.
10:37 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article I, Section 6
Representatives and Senators shall be compensated. Also, they're privileged from being arrested except for treason, felony, and breach of the peace.
Plus, Representatives and Senators cannot simultaneously be appointed as a civil officer, and vice versa.
Representatives and Senators shall be compensated. Also, they're privileged from being arrested except for treason, felony, and breach of the peace.
Plus, Representatives and Senators cannot simultaneously be appointed as a civil officer, and vice versa.
10:37 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article I, Section 7
Bills passing both the House and Senate go to the President's desk, becoming law if the President signs it (or doesn't return it after 10 days). If the President vetoes it, 2/3rds of the House and Senate can override. Also, only the House does revenue bills.
Bills passing both the House and Senate go to the President's desk, becoming law if the President signs it (or doesn't return it after 10 days). If the President vetoes it, 2/3rds of the House and Senate can override. Also, only the House does revenue bills.
10:38 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article I, Section 8
This features a long list of Congress's powers, such as collecting taxes, borrowing money, coining money, establishing the post office, copyrighting intellectual property, maintaining armed forces, declaring war, organizing militias, and much more.
This features a long list of Congress's powers, such as collecting taxes, borrowing money, coining money, establishing the post office, copyrighting intellectual property, maintaining armed forces, declaring war, organizing militias, and much more.
10:38 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article I, Section 9
Here is a partial list of things that Congress is not allowed to do: passing ex post facto laws (criminalizing past behavior that was originally legal), granting titles of nobility, passing bills of attainder (declaring people or groups guilty), and more.
Here is a partial list of things that Congress is not allowed to do: passing ex post facto laws (criminalizing past behavior that was originally legal), granting titles of nobility, passing bills of attainder (declaring people or groups guilty), and more.
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U.S. Constitution - Article I, Section 10
There are also a couple of things that the states are not allowed to do, like coining money and passing bills of attainder or ex post facto laws. Basically, states cannot do certain things that Congress does or that Congress is also prohibited from doing.
There are also a couple of things that the states are not allowed to do, like coining money and passing bills of attainder or ex post facto laws. Basically, states cannot do certain things that Congress does or that Congress is also prohibited from doing.
10:39 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article II, Section 1
This introduces the federal government's executive branch, with how the President and Vice President are elected, the requirements for being President (age 35 years or older, residency in U.S. for at least 14 years, natural-born citizen), and the Oath.
This introduces the federal government's executive branch, with how the President and Vice President are elected, the requirements for being President (age 35 years or older, residency in U.S. for at least 14 years, natural-born citizen), and the Oath.
10:39 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article II, Section 2
Three sets of duties of the President are described:
1. Commander-in-Chief of the nation's armed forces, plus militias of the states
2. Power to make treaties, plus appointing officers, Supreme Court Justices, etc.
3. Filling vacancies during Senate recess
Three sets of duties of the President are described:
1. Commander-in-Chief of the nation's armed forces, plus militias of the states
2. Power to make treaties, plus appointing officers, Supreme Court Justices, etc.
3. Filling vacancies during Senate recess
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U.S. Constitution - Article II, Section 3
More duties of the President discussed, including:
1. Give Congress information on the State of the Union
2. Convene the chambers of Congress on extraordinary occasions
3. Receive ambassadors and ministers
4. Taking care that laws be faithfully executed
More duties of the President discussed, including:
1. Give Congress information on the State of the Union
2. Convene the chambers of Congress on extraordinary occasions
3. Receive ambassadors and ministers
4. Taking care that laws be faithfully executed
10:40 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article II, Section 4
Just one sentence about who can be impeached and when:
"The President, Vice President and all civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors."
Just one sentence about who can be impeached and when:
"The President, Vice President and all civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors."
10:41 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article III, Section 1
This introduces the federal government's judicial branch, consisting of a Supreme Court and, as established by Congress, inferior courts. Judges in these courts shall hold office during good behavior and receive compensation that must not be diminished.
This introduces the federal government's judicial branch, consisting of a Supreme Court and, as established by Congress, inferior courts. Judges in these courts shall hold office during good behavior and receive compensation that must not be diminished.
10:41 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article III, Section 2
In this part:
1. Types of cases judicial power extends to
2. For certain cases, Supreme Court has original jurisdiction. Otherwise, it's an appellate court.
3. Except for impeachment, trials of crimes are by jury, within the state where the crime occurred.
In this part:
1. Types of cases judicial power extends to
2. For certain cases, Supreme Court has original jurisdiction. Otherwise, it's an appellate court.
3. Except for impeachment, trials of crimes are by jury, within the state where the crime occurred.
10:42 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article III, Section 3
Two key things noted in this section:
1. Definition of treason against the U.S.: "...shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort."
2. Congress's power to declare the punishment of treason
Two key things noted in this section:
1. Definition of treason against the U.S.: "...shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort."
2. Congress's power to declare the punishment of treason
10:42 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article IV, Section 1
A certain sacred phrase first appears here: "full faith and credit."
Basically, it "shall be given in each State to the public Acts, Records, and judicial Proceedings of every other State."
Plus, Congress creates laws to ensure the above is executed.
A certain sacred phrase first appears here: "full faith and credit."
Basically, it "shall be given in each State to the public Acts, Records, and judicial Proceedings of every other State."
Plus, Congress creates laws to ensure the above is executed.
10:42 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article IV, Section 2
Two important things here, regarding citizens:
1. Citizens of each state are entitled to the privileges and immunities of other states. OK, that's good to know.
2. Criminals fleeing to other states can be extradited back to the states they fled.
Two important things here, regarding citizens:
1. Citizens of each state are entitled to the privileges and immunities of other states. OK, that's good to know.
2. Criminals fleeing to other states can be extradited back to the states they fled.
10:43 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article IV, Section 3
Congress can admit new states to the Union. To form a new state within an existing one or combine states into new ones, both Congress and state legislatures must sign off.
There's also text about U.S. territory and other property you can read yourself.
Congress can admit new states to the Union. To form a new state within an existing one or combine states into new ones, both Congress and state legislatures must sign off.
There's also text about U.S. territory and other property you can read yourself.
10:43 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article IV, Section 4
Here, there's just one sentence stating that the U.S. guarantees every state a republican form of government, protection against invasion, and protection against domestic violence (via legislative branch, or executive branch if the former is not available).
Here, there's just one sentence stating that the U.S. guarantees every state a republican form of government, protection against invasion, and protection against domestic violence (via legislative branch, or executive branch if the former is not available).
10:44 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article V
Two ways to amend the Constitution:
1. Two-thirds of House and Senate pass amendments, 3/4 of states ratify
2. Two-thirds of states call for constitutional convention to propose amendments, 3/4 of states ratify
The first was done 27 times. The second: never done once.
Two ways to amend the Constitution:
1. Two-thirds of House and Senate pass amendments, 3/4 of states ratify
2. Two-thirds of states call for constitutional convention to propose amendments, 3/4 of states ratify
The first was done 27 times. The second: never done once.
10:44 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article VI
A few miscellaneous items:
- Debts before the Constitution still valid
- Constitution as Supreme Law of the Land
- Government officials must also take the Oath to uphold the Constitution
- Religious tests shall never be used as a qualification for public office
A few miscellaneous items:
- Debts before the Constitution still valid
- Constitution as Supreme Law of the Land
- Government officials must also take the Oath to uphold the Constitution
- Religious tests shall never be used as a qualification for public office
10:45 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - Article VII
"The Ratification of the Conventions of nine States, shall be sufficient for the Establishment of this Constitution between the States so ratifying the Same."
Shout out to the 1st 9 ratifiers (DE, PA, NJ, GA, CT, MA, MD, SC, and NH) and the last 4 (VA, NY, NC, RI).
"The Ratification of the Conventions of nine States, shall be sufficient for the Establishment of this Constitution between the States so ratifying the Same."
Shout out to the 1st 9 ratifiers (DE, PA, NJ, GA, CT, MA, MD, SC, and NH) and the last 4 (VA, NY, NC, RI).
10:45 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 1st Amendment
Congress is not allowed to make laws that (A) respect or prohibit religion, (B) limit free speech, (C) limit the press, (D) limit peaceful assembly, or (E) limit petitioning the government to redress grievances. Therefore, these five things are guaranteed rights.
Congress is not allowed to make laws that (A) respect or prohibit religion, (B) limit free speech, (C) limit the press, (D) limit peaceful assembly, or (E) limit petitioning the government to redress grievances. Therefore, these five things are guaranteed rights.
10:46 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 1st Amendment
Let's put an end to misconceptions related to the 1st Amendment:
- 1A says that Congress shall not limit free speech. It doesn't apply to anyone or anything else.
- America was NOT founded on a specific religion, like Christianity. Please stop that nonsense.
Let's put an end to misconceptions related to the 1st Amendment:
- 1A says that Congress shall not limit free speech. It doesn't apply to anyone or anything else.
- America was NOT founded on a specific religion, like Christianity. Please stop that nonsense.
10:47 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 1st Amendment
In a democracy, people must be able to (A) get together, (B) talk about issues, and (C) share info via media, all while (D) telling the government to fix stuff.
A through D are four of the five rights guaranteed by 1A. Without 1A, democracy could cripple itself.
In a democracy, people must be able to (A) get together, (B) talk about issues, and (C) share info via media, all while (D) telling the government to fix stuff.
A through D are four of the five rights guaranteed by 1A. Without 1A, democracy could cripple itself.
10:47 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 2nd Amendment
"A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed."
This continues to be the most contentious part of the Constitution, given contemporary realities. Debate continues.
"A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed."
This continues to be the most contentious part of the Constitution, given contemporary realities. Debate continues.
10:48 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 2nd Amendment
"A well-regulated militia" seems to indicate a specific situation for the right to bear arms. Note that "militia" is mentioned earlier in the Constitution, as Congress organizes it and the President oversees it. Maybe 2A is meant to prevent disarming of militias?
"A well-regulated militia" seems to indicate a specific situation for the right to bear arms. Note that "militia" is mentioned earlier in the Constitution, as Congress organizes it and the President oversees it. Maybe 2A is meant to prevent disarming of militias?
10:48 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 3rd Amendment
"No Soldier shall, in time of peace be quartered in any house, without the consent of the Owner, nor in time of war, but in a manner to be prescribed by law."
Basically, don't worry about having to do involuntary Airbnb for the U.S. Armed Forces. They have bases.
"No Soldier shall, in time of peace be quartered in any house, without the consent of the Owner, nor in time of war, but in a manner to be prescribed by law."
Basically, don't worry about having to do involuntary Airbnb for the U.S. Armed Forces. They have bases.
10:49 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 4th Amendment
1. People have a right to privacy against unlawful search and seizure.
2. Search warrants must be based on probable cause and describe the placed to be searched and the persons or things to be seized. (Yes, standard police search protocols stem from 4A.)
1. People have a right to privacy against unlawful search and seizure.
2. Search warrants must be based on probable cause and describe the placed to be searched and the persons or things to be seized. (Yes, standard police search protocols stem from 4A.)
10:49 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 5th Amendment
1. Hold for crimes when grand jury indicts, unless related to military/militias/war
2. No double jeopardy
3. No self-incrimination
4. No depriving of life, etc. without due process of law
5. No taking of private property for public use without just compensation
1. Hold for crimes when grand jury indicts, unless related to military/militias/war
2. No double jeopardy
3. No self-incrimination
4. No depriving of life, etc. without due process of law
5. No taking of private property for public use without just compensation
10:50 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 5th Amendment
Think of countries where you're found not guilty of a crime, but later you go through the same judicial ordeal again because there's supposedly new information to prove your guilt in that same case.
Thank goodness 5A prevents that from happening in the U.S.
Think of countries where you're found not guilty of a crime, but later you go through the same judicial ordeal again because there's supposedly new information to prove your guilt in that same case.
Thank goodness 5A prevents that from happening in the U.S.
10:50 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 5th Amendment
Think of countries where police accuse you of a crime just based on faulty assumptions, then torture you to falsely confess.
Thank goodness 5A does not allow self-incrimination in the U.S. This means prosecutors must do a very good job proving their case.
Think of countries where police accuse you of a crime just based on faulty assumptions, then torture you to falsely confess.
Thank goodness 5A does not allow self-incrimination in the U.S. This means prosecutors must do a very good job proving their case.
10:51 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 6th Amendment
More rights for accused citizens:
1. Speedy public trial by an impartial jury where the crime was committed
2. Being informed of accusations
3. Being confronted with witnesses against them
4. Obtaining favorable witnesses
5. Having assistance of defense counsel
More rights for accused citizens:
1. Speedy public trial by an impartial jury where the crime was committed
2. Being informed of accusations
3. Being confronted with witnesses against them
4. Obtaining favorable witnesses
5. Having assistance of defense counsel
10:52 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 6th Amendment
Imagine not being allowed to have a speedy public trial. You'd be incarcerated without a trial indefinitely, not knowing what you're accused of, and having no witnesses and lawyers to help you out. Thank 6A (and even 5A) for granting rights to the accused.
Imagine not being allowed to have a speedy public trial. You'd be incarcerated without a trial indefinitely, not knowing what you're accused of, and having no witnesses and lawyers to help you out. Thank 6A (and even 5A) for granting rights to the accused.
10:52 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 7th Amendment
Two more things related to justice:
1. In lawsuits where the value in controversy exceeds $20, the right to a jury shall be preserved.
2. No fact tried by a jury shall be reexamined in any court of the United States.
Well, these sound pretty darn good to me.
Two more things related to justice:
1. In lawsuits where the value in controversy exceeds $20, the right to a jury shall be preserved.
2. No fact tried by a jury shall be reexamined in any court of the United States.
Well, these sound pretty darn good to me.
10:53 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 8th Amendment
"Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted."
(While this text is clear, I should note that, at least to me, it also sounds quite subjective. Besides, isn't punishment supposed to be cruel?)
"Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted."
(While this text is clear, I should note that, at least to me, it also sounds quite subjective. Besides, isn't punishment supposed to be cruel?)
10:53 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 9th Amendment
"The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people."
Good idea. Just because a right isn't written down doesn't mean it doesn't exist. Imagine trying to write down every single right.
"The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people."
Good idea. Just because a right isn't written down doesn't mean it doesn't exist. Imagine trying to write down every single right.
10:54 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 10th Amendment
"The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people."
Good to know. If it's not written in the Constitution, the states and people have it by default.
"The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people."
Good to know. If it's not written in the Constitution, the states and people have it by default.
10:55 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 11th Amendment
If I'm interpreting this correctly, this means that the U.S. judicial system does not allow (a) citizens of one American state to sue another American state or (b) citizens of a foreign country to sue an American state.
I say "good." It would be chaos otherwise.
If I'm interpreting this correctly, this means that the U.S. judicial system does not allow (a) citizens of one American state to sue another American state or (b) citizens of a foreign country to sue an American state.
I say "good." It would be chaos otherwise.
10:55 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 12th Amendment
This lays out a revised procedure for electing the President and Vice President, replacing what was written in Article II. One big change: the President and Vice President are on distinct ballots. 12A came about because of the wacky presidential election of 1800.
This lays out a revised procedure for electing the President and Vice President, replacing what was written in Article II. One big change: the President and Vice President are on distinct ballots. 12A came about because of the wacky presidential election of 1800.
10:56 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 13th Amendment, Section 1
Except as a punishment for a crime, slavery and involuntary servitude are illegal in the United States.
This is a monumental update to the U.S. Constitution, making America freer and pushing it closer to its ideals. Score one for the abolitionists!
Except as a punishment for a crime, slavery and involuntary servitude are illegal in the United States.
This is a monumental update to the U.S. Constitution, making America freer and pushing it closer to its ideals. Score one for the abolitionists!
10:56 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 13th Amendment, Section 2
"Congress shall have power to enforce this article [13th Amendment, Section 1] by appropriate legislation."
(You'll see this line repeated for other subsequent amendments. I'll still cover them for the sake of completeness in coverage of the text.)
"Congress shall have power to enforce this article [13th Amendment, Section 1] by appropriate legislation."
(You'll see this line repeated for other subsequent amendments. I'll still cover them for the sake of completeness in coverage of the text.)
10:57 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 14th Amendment, Section 1
1. If you are born or naturalized in the United States, you are a citizen.
2. No state shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens; deprive people of life, liberty, or property without due process of law; or deny equal protection of the laws.
1. If you are born or naturalized in the United States, you are a citizen.
2. No state shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens; deprive people of life, liberty, or property without due process of law; or deny equal protection of the laws.
10:57 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 14th Amendment, Section 2
Representatives of the U.S. House are apportioned across the states according to population size per state, excluding untaxed Native Americans.
The rest is about reducing the basis of representation if the right to vote is abridged. Read it yourself.
Representatives of the U.S. House are apportioned across the states according to population size per state, excluding untaxed Native Americans.
The rest is about reducing the basis of representation if the right to vote is abridged. Read it yourself.
10:58 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 14th Amendment, Section 3
If anyone served in public office and took the Oath to the Constitution, then engaged in insurrection or gave aid or comfort to enemies, that person shall not serve in office, though 2/3rds vote of each chamber of Congress may remove such disability.
If anyone served in public office and took the Oath to the Constitution, then engaged in insurrection or gave aid or comfort to enemies, that person shall not serve in office, though 2/3rds vote of each chamber of Congress may remove such disability.
10:58 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 14th Amendment, Section 4
The validity of the public debt of the United States authorized by law shall not be questioned. However, any debts related to aiding insurrection or rebellion against the U.S., or to loss from slave emancipation, shall be illegal and void.
The validity of the public debt of the United States authorized by law shall not be questioned. However, any debts related to aiding insurrection or rebellion against the U.S., or to loss from slave emancipation, shall be illegal and void.
10:59 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 14th Amendment, Section 5
"The Congress shall have the power to enforce, by appropriate legislation, the provisions of this article."
Yes. Let's be clear that legislation by Congress is what will enforce what is laid out in Sections 1 through 4 of the 14th Amendment.
"The Congress shall have the power to enforce, by appropriate legislation, the provisions of this article."
Yes. Let's be clear that legislation by Congress is what will enforce what is laid out in Sections 1 through 4 of the 14th Amendment.
11:00 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 15th Amendment, Section 1
"The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude."
Score one for nonwhite Americans! It's about damn time.
"The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude."
Score one for nonwhite Americans! It's about damn time.
11:00 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 15th Amendment, Section 2
"The Congress shall have the power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation."
(OK, thank you for the reminder.)
"The Congress shall have the power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation."
(OK, thank you for the reminder.)
11:01 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 16th Amendment
"The Congress shall have power to lay and collect taxes on incomes, from whatever source derived, without apportionment among the several States, and without regard to any census or enumeration."
Sounds like taxes don't have to be proportional to population. OK.
"The Congress shall have power to lay and collect taxes on incomes, from whatever source derived, without apportionment among the several States, and without regard to any census or enumeration."
Sounds like taxes don't have to be proportional to population. OK.
11:01 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 17th Amendment
Originally, Senators were elected by state legislatures. 17A changed that, stating that Senators are now elected by the people.
Yeah, the way we vote for U.S. Senators today was a new thing in the middle of the nation's history, not a thing from the start.
Originally, Senators were elected by state legislatures. 17A changed that, stating that Senators are now elected by the people.
Yeah, the way we vote for U.S. Senators today was a new thing in the middle of the nation's history, not a thing from the start.
11:02 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 18th Amendment, Section 1
Here it is: the infamous 18th Amendment that prohibited the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcohol.
Well, you know what happened after that. Given human nature, this wasn't something many Americans complied with. Bring on the speakeasies!
Here it is: the infamous 18th Amendment that prohibited the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcohol.
Well, you know what happened after that. Given human nature, this wasn't something many Americans complied with. Bring on the speakeasies!
11:02 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 18th Amendment, Sections 2 and 3
Section 2: "The Congress and the several States shall have concurrent power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation."
Section 3 says that 18A is inoperative unless ratified by the states, within seven years. (Sure. Be real specific.)
Section 2: "The Congress and the several States shall have concurrent power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation."
Section 3 says that 18A is inoperative unless ratified by the states, within seven years. (Sure. Be real specific.)
11:03 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 19th Amendment
"The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex."
Score one for American women! They finally got the right to vote. Like 15A, 19A was important for expanding voting rights.
"The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex."
Score one for American women! They finally got the right to vote. Like 15A, 19A was important for expanding voting rights.
11:03 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 20th Amendment, Sections 1 and 2
This part of 20A declares start dates for office terms:
- Noon on January 20th for the President and Vice President
- Noon on January 3rd for Representatives and Senators (used to be first Monday of December), also the first meeting by default
This part of 20A declares start dates for office terms:
- Noon on January 20th for the President and Vice President
- Noon on January 3rd for Representatives and Senators (used to be first Monday of December), also the first meeting by default
11:04 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 20th Amendment, Sections 3 and 4
Here is where the line of succession is discussed. For example,
- If the President-elect dies before the term begins, the Vice President-elect becomes President.
- If neither of them qualify, Congress may by law declare who acts as President.
Here is where the line of succession is discussed. For example,
- If the President-elect dies before the term begins, the Vice President-elect becomes President.
- If neither of them qualify, Congress may by law declare who acts as President.
11:05 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 20th Amendment, Sections 5 and 6
Section 5: "Sections 1 and 2 shall take effect on the 15th day of October following the ratification of this article."
Section 6 says that 20A is inoperative unless ratified by the states, within seven years.
Section 5: "Sections 1 and 2 shall take effect on the 15th day of October following the ratification of this article."
Section 6 says that 20A is inoperative unless ratified by the states, within seven years.
11:05 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 21st Amendment, Sections 1 Through 3
Section 1 officially repeals 18A.
But Section 2 still bans the importation of alcohol into states and territories with laws prohibiting it.
Section 3 says that 21A is inoperative unless ratified by the states, within seven years.
Section 1 officially repeals 18A.
But Section 2 still bans the importation of alcohol into states and territories with laws prohibiting it.
Section 3 says that 21A is inoperative unless ratified by the states, within seven years.
11:06 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 22nd Amendment, Section 1
No President shall serve more than two terms.
Before, Presidents served for one or two terms just by tradition. But after FDR served as President for three terms plus the beginning of a fourth term before dying, Americans said, "Enough is enough."
No President shall serve more than two terms.
Before, Presidents served for one or two terms just by tradition. But after FDR served as President for three terms plus the beginning of a fourth term before dying, Americans said, "Enough is enough."
11:07 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 22nd Amendment, Section 2
22A is inoperative unless ratified by the states, within seven years.
(Yeah, yeah, I get it. Let's move on.)
22A is inoperative unless ratified by the states, within seven years.
(Yeah, yeah, I get it. Let's move on.)
11:07 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 23rd Amendment, Section 1
The number of electoral votes for Washington, D.C., is equal to the number of Representatives plus Senators if it were a state, and that total number cannot be greater than the electoral votes of the least populous state.
(Hmmm. Time for DC statehood?)
The number of electoral votes for Washington, D.C., is equal to the number of Representatives plus Senators if it were a state, and that total number cannot be greater than the electoral votes of the least populous state.
(Hmmm. Time for DC statehood?)
11:08 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 23rd Amendment, Section 2
"The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation."
(Once again, we've seen this before. Let's go to the next amendment.)
"The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation."
(Once again, we've seen this before. Let's go to the next amendment.)
11:08 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 24th Amendment, Section 1
The right to vote cannot be restricted because of a failure to pay a poll tax or other kind of tax. Simply put, poll taxes or the like as a requirement for voting aren't allowed.
So if you're thinking of requiring taxes to vote, 24A will kick your ass.
The right to vote cannot be restricted because of a failure to pay a poll tax or other kind of tax. Simply put, poll taxes or the like as a requirement for voting aren't allowed.
So if you're thinking of requiring taxes to vote, 24A will kick your ass.
11:09 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 24th Amendment, Section 2
"The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation."
(No comment.)
"The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation."
(No comment.)
11:09 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 25th Amendment, Sections 1 Through 4
Updates on succession:
- President dies or resigns -> Vice President becomes P
- VP acts as P if (a) P declares inability to serve or (b) VP and most executive officers declare P unfit to serve
- P may resume serving with approved declaration
Updates on succession:
- President dies or resigns -> Vice President becomes P
- VP acts as P if (a) P declares inability to serve or (b) VP and most executive officers declare P unfit to serve
- P may resume serving with approved declaration
11:10 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 26th Amendment, Section 1
"The right of citizens of the United States, who are eighteen years of age or older, to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of age."
Minimum voting age lowered from 21 to 18! Score one for young adults!
"The right of citizens of the United States, who are eighteen years of age or older, to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of age."
Minimum voting age lowered from 21 to 18! Score one for young adults!
11:11 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 26th Amendment, Section 2
"The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation."
(This is truly the last time you're seeing this line. I promise.)
"The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation."
(This is truly the last time you're seeing this line. I promise.)
11:11 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 27th Amendment
"No law, varying the compensation for the services of the Senators and Representatives, shall take effect, until an election of representatives shall have intervened."
Sounds good. Nobody wants to see salary increases for members of Congress before elections.
"No law, varying the compensation for the services of the Senators and Representatives, shall take effect, until an election of representatives shall have intervened."
Sounds good. Nobody wants to see salary increases for members of Congress before elections.
11:12 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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U.S. Constitution - 27th Amendment
27A has the distinction of involving the longest period from approval by Congress (1789, during the George Washington Administration) to ratification by 3/4ths of states (1992, during the George H.W. Bush Administration).
Yeah, it really took over 202 years!
27A has the distinction of involving the longest period from approval by Congress (1789, during the George Washington Administration) to ratification by 3/4ths of states (1992, during the George H.W. Bush Administration).
Yeah, it really took over 202 years!
11:12 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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The United States Constitution covers a lot of ground, related to functions of our government and certain rights for us Americans.
But don't forget that it's a living document, designed to evolve with the times. What issue will become enshrined as the 28th Amendment? We'll have to wait and see.
But don't forget that it's a living document, designed to evolve with the times. What issue will become enshrined as the 28th Amendment? We'll have to wait and see.
11:13 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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I wanted to write this thread about the U.S. Constitution for one simple reason. It has guided and shaped America for 230+ years, after a tumultuous first decade of the nation's existence. Like the U.S. Flag, the U.S. Constitution is what defines America and all of its people. Let's embrace it.
11:13 AM - Sep 17, 2023
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This completes my thread on the United States Constitution. Thanks to everyone who has taken the time to read this.
If you've read the Constitution before, I hope this thread has been a fun read.
If you've never read the Constitution before, I hope I've inspired you to read it closely.
🇺🇸 🙂
If you've read the Constitution before, I hope this thread has been a fun read.
If you've never read the Constitution before, I hope I've inspired you to read it closely.
🇺🇸 🙂
11:14 AM - Sep 17, 2023
