A constitution is a written document that establishes the basic rules by which a society is governed. Throughout history the United States has lived under two Constitutions since the Anglo-American colonies declared their independence from Great Britain in 1776. First in line were the Articles of Confederation (1789-1789) followed by the United States Constitution of 'America (1789-present). The Articles of Confederation were the first formal written American Constitution that specified how the national government was to operate. Unfortunately, the items didn't last long. In the words of the article the power was limited; Congress could make decisions, but had no power to enforce them. Additionally, the articles stated that Congress had been denied taxing power, meaning that the national government was not given money to regulate federal spending. Money could only be requested from States, and States had the ability to not grant the request. Among the lack of enforcement and taxation was the national government's denied power to regulate affairs, in other words the federal government could not build a strong economy. All of these factors and more lead to the fall of the Articles of Confederation. Driving to the Constitutional Convention, where the current Constitution was written and signed by 38 of the 41 delegates present on September 17, 1787. This document discusses why the Founding Fathers designed the Constitution as they did and how this design has affected our system Today. On September 17, 1787, the United States of America had a new second Constitution. The Constitution was designed to serve the interests of the [American] people: the rich and the poor, the North and the South...middle of paper...the branches of government to separate and balance power in the national government . Influencing our daily lives in court cases, presidential elections and power over presidential control, etc. The Constitution is truly the most wonderful work of mankind. Works Cited1. December 15th. "The Constitution of the United States of America." Almanac of political questions. June 2004. Web. 15 April 2011. .2. "Comparing the Articles to the Constitution - The United States Constitution Online - USConstitution.net." Index Page - The United States Constitution online - USConstitution.net. Ed. Steven Monte. January 24, 2010. Web. April 15, 2011. .3. Unknown. "The Constitution - Amendments." President-elect. 2002. Network. April 15. 2011. .