The Constitution of the United States established our government and the laws we have today, and also promised basic rights to its citizens. In 1787, delegates from twelve states met to try to come up with something that would strengthen the Articles of Confederation. All the delegates wanted was to develop a way that could make our government more powerful. But at the same time, the "farmers" of the new United States Constitution wanted to limit the power of government and protect the rights of citizens. In 1789, the United States Constitution was ratified and has been the heart of our government ever since. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay The constitution sets strict laws and limits that everyone must obey. Stated in Document 1, it states that each state will be obligated to obey it regardless of the laws established in that particular state. Also stating that all members of the government office are bound by oath to support the constitution. Laws show the people how to act and our rights, but also show the leaders of the United States the limits of their power. Document 2 specifically states the duties of the three branches of the federal government. 1st Branch of Government - Congress has the power to create laws, raise taxes, spend money, declare war, etc. 2nd branch of government - the President of the United States has the power to grant pardons to federal offenders, appoint federal judges and other officers, negotiate treaties with foreign nations, etc. Finally, the 3rd branch of government, the federal courts, have the power to interpret and rule on laws and to interpret and rule on the actions of other branches. We have established a strong national (federal) government within the limits and rules set in the constitution. Two methods included in the Constitution to limit the power of the national government are the separation of powers. Document 3 discusses the separation of powers which gives each branch a set of rules and limits on power. With these boundaries defined, branches do not need to step on each other's toes. So each branch knows what it should do and what it should not do. With these two methods, it limits the power of the government while preserving the rights of American citizens. In Document 5, the first 10 Bills of Rights are listed. The Bill of Rights guarantees the rights of American citizens. Some rights listed include freedom of expression, assembly and worship. The Bill of Rights served as a cornerstone of American fundamental freedom. The First Ten Amendments limit the power of the United States federal government and protect the rights of all citizens, residents, and visitors to the United States. The first amendment to the Constitution reads: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or restrict freedom of expression or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.”, this states that our liberty should in no way be compromised by anyone. The 13th and 15th Amendments also speak to racism; no skin color should affect your rights as a human being. These amendments banned slavery and the right to vote, regardless of race. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized document now from our expert writers. Get.