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What was the 1st Constitution?
While many believe that the U.S. Constitution is the first governing document of America, The Articles of Confederation was the precursor government system for it. Though The Articles of Confederation was the beginning, it was far from perfect as it lacked both the power for decisive decisions and the impact from what decisions were made to enforce them. The articles were put together a bit rushed after the Declaration of Independence, as there needed to be a government during and after the war. The articles left most power to state governments, which was the polar opposite of what England did (having a full monarchy governing everyone). While this may sound good, the lack of basic standards led to 13 different currencies instead of one, as well as issues with enforcing taxes, trade regulation, and even essential laws! Despite it lacking impact, the articles were able to settle issues on westward expansion, as well as showed what must be improved on with the next attempt on independent governing.
Inspiration of The U.S. Constitution
By seeing the faults of their prior government, the Constitutional Convention created what we know as the Founding Fathers, including George Washington, John Adams, Alexander Hamilton, and James Monroe. These famous leaders (and many more) gathered in 1787 to alter the Articles of Confederation to better serve the United States. However, after seeing their needs and original reasons for independence from England, they realized that a completely new constitution was required. They analyzed governments from past and present eras, as well as studied The English Bill of Rights, The Magna Carta, and other free-governing constitutions to create a solid foundation for a new system of government.
The New System of Government
The power of the government was actually split into 3 equal, separated branches of government: the legislative, judicial, and executive branches. By splitting up the power, the future corruption of one political party sweeping the government would be less likely, allowing the minority to be heard, whether or not they are right. Also, with the support of Anti-Federalists, a Bill of Rights would be added in 1791, which would grant 10 unalienable (meaning you are born with them) rights to all citizens. Most of the rights were rights that weren't allowed under England's rule, and the U.S. wanted to make sure that their revolution wasn't for nothing. These rights included the right to speak, write, and publish anything, as well as petition the government against what's deemed as injustice. Those convicted of crimes would have a fair trial, including being offered an attorney and have a hearing with a unbiased judge with a jury of peers. These rights, though considered standard today, were extremely revolutionary and made America one of the freest countries in the world. When finished, the Constitutional Convention didn't just create a new constitution for the United States, but an inspiration for many others to come.
Global Effects
While the U.S. Constitution provided revolutionary rights to its free citizens, it truly initiated a wave of revolutions around the world. Over the next 150 years, colonized areas like Mexico, Texas, and numerous Latin American and African countries started revolutions against their mother countries in the pursuit of freedom for all. And while it would take time for hurdles such as anti-slavery, universal voting, and civil rights for all to be enacted, the new United States government had initiated the ideology.
The Constitution Today
Looking at history in an analyst's eyes, a government is only as good as its support from its citizens. So, while the Constitution has remained as the founding basis of the United States, amendments have been put in place to keep up with the times in society. We still use the Constitution today, as it's the primary use in determining if new laws should be passed or if older laws are still constitutional.
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Website Designed by Nathan Copeland
Website Designed by Nathan Copeland