The Constitution of the United States defines the structure of the U.S. legal system by allocating power and responsibility among the three branches of government: the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial. The Constitution consists of such fundamental principles as separation of power, checks and balances, and shared authority of federal and state governments.
I. Preamble
As suggested by the introductory words "We the people," the Preamble of the Constitution establishes that the power of the government and originates from the people of the United States.
II. Articles
The Constitution is divided into seven articles on different topics.
III. Amendments
There have been twenty-seven amendments to the Constitution.