英语国家概况-19.docVIP

Chapter 1 9 Political Institutions The U. S. Constitution The Constitution of the United States is the basic instrument of American government and the supreme law of the land. For two centuries and more, it has guided the evolution of governmental institutions and has provided the basis for political stability, economic growth and social progress. The American Constitution is the oldest written constitution in the world. It was drawn up in 1787 and went into effect in 1789. When the War of Independence was won, the thirteen former colonies were like thirteen independent nations. Since the colo