I Am a Promise: The Story of the Constitution

Hello. I started as a little idea in a big, sunny room. I am made of ink and paper, but I hold a very big promise. I was like a tiny whisper that grew and grew into a strong voice. In a big city with bumpy cobblestone streets, a group of smart leaders met together. It was a warm summer in 1787. They had a super important job to do. They wanted to make a set of rules for a brand new country, so everyone could be happy and safe. I am those rules. I am the United States Constitution.

The people who made me are called the Founding Fathers. They worked all summer long in a city called Philadelphia. It was very, very hot outside, but inside they shared all their best ideas. They used special pens made from feathers to write me down, word by word. Dip, swish, write. They talked about being fair and letting everyone be free. On a special day, September 17th, 1787, they all signed their names on my last page. It was like they were making a big, happy promise together for everyone, for a long, long time.

I may be very old, but I am not just old paper. I am like a map that helps people. I help make sure the country has a leader, called a president. I help make sure everyone's voice can be heard, just like when you talk in a circle time. I have special promises inside me, called rights. These promises help keep you safe and free. I am still here today, helping everyone live together and be friends. I am a reminder that big ideas and teamwork can make something wonderful that lasts forever and ever.

Drafted 1787
Signed 1787
Ratified 1788