Final answer:
The Constitution can be amended with the agreement of two-thirds of both chambers of Congress or two-thirds of the states. Three-fourths of the state legislatures must then ratify the amendment. This process has allowed the Constitution to adapt to significant changes over time. Examples of amendments include ending slavery, suffrage for women, and term limits for the presidency.
Step-by-step explanation:
Amending the Constitution is a two-step process. To propose an amendment, two-thirds of both chambers of Congress must agree to the proposal, or two-thirds of the states can call a convention. To ratify an amendment, three-fourths of the state legislatures must agree to adopt it. The amendment process is intentionally difficult to ensure that changes to the Constitution reflect broad consensus.
The Constitution has been amended 27 times in over 200 years, addressing significant changes in our country. Examples include the end of slavery, suffrage for women, term limits for the presidency, and the direct election of senators. These amendments demonstrate that the Constitution is a 'living document' that can adapt to the evolving needs and values of the nation.