The Preamble

The Constitution begins with just 52 words in what is known as the “preamble.”

Essentially, the Preamble outlines the goal of the Constitution. It is sometimes known as the "Enacting Clause" because it establishes that the people are the ones who enact the Constitution. It sets up the values, goals, and principles of the new nation.

+-

The Preamble of the U.S. Constitution

+-

We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

An image of the top portion of the original United States Constitution, with the words "We the People" in large letters.

The preamble to the U.S. Constitution.

Read the preamble carefully, and then complete the Match It activity about its meaning.

Match It!: Your answers have been submitted.
Click the 'View in My Work' link below to review your answers.

“We the People”: The Constitution derives its authority from the consent of the governed.

“in Order to form a more perfect Union”: The Framers wanted to create a stronger and more unified federal government compared to the confederation that existed under the Articles of Confederation.

“establish Justice”: Justice is a cornerstone of any just society. The Framers were committed to ensuring fair and equitable treatment as a cornerstone of the new government.

“insure domestic Tranquility”: It was important to the Framers to maintain peace and order within the country and prevent conflicts.

“provide for the common defence”: This clause states the importance of protecting the nation from external threats and warfare.

“promote the general Welfare”: The Framers recognized the importance of committing to the collective good.

“secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity”: The Framers believed in preserving liberty not only for themselves, but for future generations.

You have successfully submitted Match It!

How did you do? Check answers on the left

Correct
Incorrect

Take Notes

Now that you have done a close read of the preamble, rewrite it in your own words, making sure to include what you think are the most important ideas.