There are two documents of paramount importance to American history: the Declaration of Independence, which forged our national identity, and the United States Constitution, which set forth the framework for the federal government that is still in use today.

The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) initiated the observance of an annual commemoration of the Constitution in 1955, when the organization petitioned the U.S. Congress to dedicate Sept. 17–23 of each year to the commemoration of Constitution Week. Congress adopted the resolution, and on Aug. 2, 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed it into Public Law #915. The celebration’s goals are threefold: to encourage the study of the historical events that led to the framing of the Constitution in September 1787; to inform people that the Constitution is the basis of America’s great heritage and the foundation of our way of life; and to emphasize U.S. citizens’ responsibility to protect, defend and preserve the Constitution.

You might have heard the phrase, “That’s unconstitutional” or “That’s my constitutional right!” Many times Americans believe that sayings and phrases are in our Constitution, but they really aren’t.

Let’s celebrate Constitution Week, Sept. 17-23, by resolving to be better-informed and responsible citizens. Read the Constitution!

Did you know? The Constitution has just over 4,000 words and takes only about half an hour to read.

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This Constitution Week Spotlight was provided by Lt. George Farragut Chapter National Society Daughters of the American Revolution.