Debates over constitutional rights impact you every day as an American citizen. But do you know what the U. S. Constitution actually says? This accessible guide contains the complete text of the Constitution, with short, descriptive margin notes throughout. Articles and amendments are then analyzed in depth to help you comprehend the basis of democracy. This valuable handbook covers: How the articles and amendments were draftedInsight into the intentions of the creators and the sources they usedControversial interpretations and Supreme Court decisionsHow the Constitution affects citizens every dayThe Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and unratified Constitutional amendmentsThis book walks you through the history of this essential document and shows how it has guided lawmakers and judges for more than 200 years. This unbiased look at the Constitution will help you feel confident in your knowledge of this all-important document, gain a firmer understanding of how our government works, and put context around today's most pressing issues