Preamble to the United States Constitution

Constitution We the People

Preamble detail from Library of Congress Dunlap & Claypoole original printing of the United States Constitution, 1787

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The Preamble to the United States Constitution is a brief introductory statement of the Constitution's fundamental purposes and guiding principles. It begins with the phrase "We the People" and outlines the reasons behind the enactment of the Constitution. The Preamble is not a source of power for any department of the federal government, but it sets the stage for the Constitution's articles and amendments.

Text of the Preamble

The text of the Preamble reads:

We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

Purpose and Interpretation

The Preamble serves several purposes:

• It declares that the Constitution derives its authority from the people rather than the states.
• It outlines the objectives of the Constitution, including forming a more perfect union, establishing justice, ensuring domestic tranquility, providing for the common defense, promoting the general welfare, and securing the blessings of liberty.

The Preamble has been cited in various United States Supreme Court cases as an important tool for interpreting the intentions of the framers of the Constitution.

Historical Context

The Preamble was written during the Constitutional Convention of 1787, held in Philadelphia. The final wording was crafted by the Committee of Style and Arrangement, which included notable figures such as Gouverneur Morris, who is often credited with penning the final draft.

Significance

While the Preamble itself does not confer any powers or rights, it is significant for its role in expressing the underlying philosophy of the Constitution. It reflects the framers' vision of a government that serves its citizens and operates with their consent.

Related Pages

• United States Constitution
• Bill of Rights
• Federalist Papers
• Constitutional Convention (United States)
• Articles of Confederation
• Supreme Court of the United States