Constitution Day is observed each year on September 17 to celebrate the signing of the United States Constitution in 1787. By law, all educational institutions receiving federal funding must observe Constitution Day. It is an opportunity to celebrate and discuss our Constitution and system of government.
In the United States, we have a federal government and constitution. In addition, each state has a separate state constitution and state government. The Constitution of the United States and each state constitution outline the framework of the government, including the executive branch, legislative branch, and judicial branch. Each branch plays an important role: The legislative branch enacts the laws; the executive branch enforces the laws; the judicial branch interprets the laws. These branches are interrelated, yet independent. Together, they make up the system of "checks and balances."
Here are some interesting links to visit:
- See an image of the Constitution of the United States.
- Go up close and in depth: Explore this interactive Constitution through the National Constitution Center’s website.
- Learn more about Constitution Day through the National Archives.
- Peruse Maryland's Constitution.
- Did you know that Maryland was the seventh state to ratify the Constitution? Discover more facts about the Constitution.
- Learn about Maryland's court system online.
- Watch Maryland's highest court in action – archived webcasts of Supreme Court of Maryland arguments.
- The National Constitution Center is a museum in Philadelphia that is devoted entirely to the Constitution. For teachers, the museum's website has educational resources, including lesson plans and activities, to connect the Constitution to curriculum.
- Another site for teachers: The Center for Civic Education offers lesson plans for K-12 about the Constitution and American citizenship.