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What is a constitution?

Law & CivicsLesson on requestFree to read

Quick answer

A constitution is the supreme set of rules that defines how a country is governed — the structure of government, the powers of each part, and the rights of citizens. All other laws must agree with it. It's the highest law; other laws can't contradict it.

Key things to understand

  1. It's the highest law; other laws can't contradict it.
  2. It sets up the branches of government and limits their power.
  3. It guarantees fundamental rights to citizens.
  4. It can usually be amended, but only through a special, harder process.

People also ask

What does a constitution do?
It defines the framework of government, distributes power, and protects citizens' rights as the supreme law.
Why is a constitution important?
It limits government power, protects rights, and provides stable rules everyone must follow.
Can a constitution be changed?
Yes, through amendments — usually requiring a higher threshold than ordinary laws.