U.S. Constitution Day

September 17 is U.S. Constitution Day.  On this day, educational and other institutions around the country engage in activities to commemorate and celebrate our Constitution and to educate the public about its provisions. 

The U.S. Constitution is the oldest written constitution in the world at 227 years old.  It is also the shortest constitution, containing only 4,440 words.  It has been amended only 27 times in its history.

The U.S. Constitution has also been an inspiration for many other constitutions around the world.  Concepts such as the rule of law, judicial review, separation of powers, federalism, and individual rights have all found expression in other constitutions, although today, many more modern constitutions have longer and more express provisions for the protection of human rights.

(cgb)