Constitution Day, also known as Citizenship Day, on September 17, marks the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787. The Constitution is the oldest written national constitution still in use, establishing the framework of the federal government and protecting citizens' rights. The day also honors people who have become U.S. citizens, and federally funded schools are required to teach about the Constitution on or around this date.
History of Constitution Day
After the Revolutionary War, the United States was governed by the Articles of Confederation, which created a weak central government. In May 1787, delegates met in Philadelphia at what is now Independence Hall to fix the problems. Instead, they wrote a new Constitution.
After months of debate, including compromises over representation and slavery, 39 delegates signed the Constitution on September 17, 1787. It was ratified when New Hampshire became the ninth state to approve it in June 1788, and the new government began in 1789. The first ten amendments, the Bill of Rights, were ratified in 1791. Today, the Constitution has 27 amendments.
In 1940, Congress created 'I Am an American Day', and in 1952, it was renamed Citizenship Day and moved to September 17. In 2004, a law sponsored by Senator Robert Byrd established Constitution Day and required educational programs in schools that receive federal funds. Constitution Week runs from September 17 to 23.
Why Constitution Day Matters
The Constitution establishes the structure of government, the separation of powers and the rights of citizens.
Understanding it helps people participate in democracy, from voting to serving on juries.
The day also celebrates new citizens, many of whom take the oath of allegiance at naturalization ceremonies held on or around September 17.
The Constitution is also a living document. The amendment process has allowed Americans to abolish slavery, guarantee equal protection under the law, extend voting rights to women and lower the voting age to 18. Studying how these changes happened shows how citizens can shape their government through peaceful, democratic means.
How to Celebrate Constitution Day
- Read the Constitution: start with the Preamble and the Bill of Rights.
- Visit a historic site: explore Independence Hall or the National Constitution Center.
- Attend a naturalization ceremony: welcome new citizens.
- Register to vote: check your registration.
- Take a civics quiz: test your knowledge.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, share information about voter registration, jury duty or civic participation. Companies can also celebrate employees who have become citizens. In classrooms, Constitution Day lessons are required in many schools; students can read the Preamble, learn about the three branches of government, hold mock debates or create their own classroom constitution. At home, families can read the Constitution together, visit a historic site, or talk about rights and responsibilities. Older children can take a sample citizenship civics test.
Fun Facts About Constitution Day
- 39 delegates signed the Constitution on September 17, 1787.
- The Bill of Rights was ratified in 1791.
- The Constitution has 27 amendments.
Constitution Day FAQs
When is Constitution Day?
Constitution Day is September 17.
When was the Constitution signed?
September 17, 1787.
How many amendments does the Constitution have?
27.
Why is it also called Citizenship Day?
It also honors people who have become U.S. citizens.