This week, 238 years ago, the American Constitution was finally signed after months of deliberation and the failure of the Articles of Confederation. Talk about second chances! Imagine if I could make my own government, fail miserably, and then everyone says “That’s a mulligan, give it another go!” I think I’d probably try to be really careful the second time around, and I guess the framers, as they’re called, thought the same way.

Fifty-five delegates from the 13 colonies were in attendance, but only 39 actually signed the document. They defined three branches of government and established a system of checks and balances to limit each branches power and prevent tyranny.

The Constitution is referred to as a living document that uses broad, general language that can be interpreted differently throughout time. It includes a framework for future amendments to be implemented, as in the case of the Bill of Rights and the other 17 ratified amendments.

Find some more quick facts about the constitution and amendments HERE.

Updates reflect the date of signing, 238 years ago this week.