Goals of the US Constitution
KQ: What are the basic ideas and goals of the US Constitution?
Preamble to 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 defense, 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 American.
The preamble outlines six main goals – what are they? For each goal briefly explain (in your own
words) what you think each one means:
1. form a more perfect union: to help keep the country together as one
2. establish justice: provide laws and punishments in a fair manner
3. insure domestic tranquility: keep peace within the country
4. provide for the common defense: protect the citizens (military)
5. promote the general welfare: look out for the general well-being of
all citizens
6. secure the blessings for liberty: protect freedom now and for the
future