The U.S. Constitution is the supreme law of the United States of America and was established in 1787. It lays out the framework for the government of the country and outlines the rights and freedoms of its citizens. The Constitution consists of seven articles, each of which addresses a different aspect of government. The first three articles establish the three branches of government – the legislative, executive, and judicial branches – and their powers and responsibilities. The fourth through sixth articles deal with the rights of citizens, such as freedom of speech, religion, and the press, as well as the rights of states. The seventh article outlines the procedure for amending the Constitution. The Constitution has been amended 27 times, and its principles continue to guide and shape the American political system to this day.