How many amendments does the Constitution have?

The Constitution of the United States has 27 amendments. These amendments serve to update and clarify the original articles of the Constitution, providing protections for individual rights, defining the structure of government, and addressing various social and political issues that have arisen over time.

The first ten amendments, known as the Bill of Rights, were ratified in 1791 and are particularly significant as they outline fundamental rights such as freedom of speech, the right to bear arms, and the rights of the accused. Following the Bill of Rights, additional amendments were added, addressing issues such as voting rights, the abolition of slavery, and the prohibition of alcohol.

This number of amendments reflects the ability of the Constitution to adapt and respond to the changing needs and values of society while maintaining the foundational principles upon which the nation was built. A clear understanding of the number and purpose of these amendments is crucial for anyone studying American government and civics.