Final answer:
The U.S. Constitution is comprised of a preamble and seven main articles, each outlining the structure and powers of different branches of government, the federal system, the amendment process, and the supremacy clause.
Step-by-step explanation:
Constitution Articles Overview
The United States Constitution consists of a preamble and seven articles. The main topics addressed in each article are:
- Article I establishes the Legislative Branch, outlining the structure and powers of Congress.
- Article II creates the Executive Branch, detailing the powers and duties of the President.
- Article III forms the Judicial Branch, explaining the powers of the federal judiciary.
- Article IV defines federalism, the relationship between state and federal governments.
- Article V describes the process for formally amending the Constitution.
- Article VI establishes the Constitution as the supreme law of the land.
- Article VII outlines the protocol for the ratification of the Constitution.
The Preamble, serving as an introduction, articulates the main goals and purposes of the new government. Among the guiding principles set forth by the Constitution are the separation of powers, checks and balances, and limited government. The Constitution can be formally amended as specified in Article V, a process that has resulted in 27 amendments, including the Bill of Rights. Informal amendment occurs through various means such as judicial interpretation, or the development of customs and practices.