September 17th marks the 233rd (2020) anniversary of the signing of the most influential document in American History: the United States Constitution. Although the Constitutional Convention was originally convened for the purpose of amending the Articles of Confederation, delegates determined that a new form of government was necessary, unanimously electing George Washington President of the Constitutional Convention and working to develop a blueprint for the American Government that would "form a more perfect union". The new government would balance the interests of both the states and the nation, while also limiting the power of government and protecting individual rights. On September 17, 1787 the Constitution was signed and sent to the states for ratification. In 2004 the United States Congress passed a law designating September 17th as Constitution Day and Citizenship Day encouraging Americans to learn about this important document and the rights and responsibilities of all citizens.
Please take some time today with your family to investigate the US Constitution, which has served as a blueprint of not only the US government, but limited governments around the globe. Enjoy the short informational video below: Constitution Day Student Informational Screencast