Since its ratification in 1788 there have been 27 amendments to the Constitution. The first 10 amendments, adopted in 1791 and known collectively as the Bill of Rights, established a number of individual liberties, including speech, religion, the press, and the rights of the criminally accused. ... The judicial branch The judicial branch is headed by the Supreme Court of the United States, which interprets the Constitution and federal legislation. ... UNITED KINGDOM Central government The main elements of the government are the legislature, the executive, and the judiciary, with some over...

• Word Count: 3105
• Approx Pages: 12
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

Currently there are 89 district courts in 50 states (at least one per state), one in the District of Columbia, and one in Puerto Rico. ... A grand jury may be called to decide whether there is evidence that a crime has been committed. ... Article I, Sections 2-4 lay out how this bicameral system should be formed. ... At present time there is a total membership of 435. ... They have restricted time for debate, members are restricted to one major committee, and House Leaders have many formal powers. ...

• Word Count: 4055
• Approx Pages: 16
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School

Hansen, investments in the war-torn North were better protected if they were taxed than if they were lost in the war effort, many opponents gave their reasons for abolishing this tax. ... Other eastern states also had movements against the amendment, but they eventually ratified it as well. ... Constitution. ... Six other states eventually ratified the amendment, bringing the total to forty-two. Only Connecticut, Florida, Rhode Island, and Utah failed in its attempts to ratify the amendment. ...

• Word Count: 2725
• Approx Pages: 11
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School

American children are taught in schools that anyone can be elected to Congress, so long as they meet the qualifications of the Constitution. ... Congress Today How much progress have we made? ... Currently, there are no black or Hispanic senators. ... In 1957 and 1960 Congress had passed laws to protect the rights of black voters, and the 24th amendment (1964) banned the use of poll taxes in federal elections. ... The Equal Pay Act and Equal Rights Amendment would gain momentum as more women weighed in on legislation. ...

• Word Count: 4202
• Approx Pages: 17
• Grade Level: Undergraduate