On September 17, 1787 thirty-nine men signed the Constitution of the United States in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The text was written on four sheets of parchment measuring approximately 28 ¾ inches by 23 ⅝ inches.
As one of the country’s founding documents, it established the fundamental principles of federal government including the executive, legislative, and judicial branches and it unified the citizens of the United States.
How familiar are you with the Constitution? Can you recite the Preamble? How do the checks and balances between the three branches of government work? Which powers are given to the federal government and which are left to each state?
Consider learning more about the Constitution and how it influences government by attending one of today’s National Archives’ online events.
Students and teachers can access a collection of fun facts, educational activities, and primary source documents related to the Constitution compiled by the National Archives and the U.S. Department of Education.
Download the eBook, Exploring the United States Constitution and discover a variety of activities and resources related to each of the three branches of government and their responsibilities to the citizens of the United States of America.
Visit the Constitution Center to interact with the Constitution through scholarly discussions and debates, podcasts, and other educational resources.
The Wyoming State Library will be offering a free pocket-sized Constitution to patrons during the week of September 14-18 while supplies last.