Some of the most important amendments have created more freedom, liberty, and political opportunity for all Americans. The Constitution could not solve the problem of slavery. In the end, a very bloody Civil War was needed to end slavery. After the war, we added the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments to end all slavery and make the former slaves full citizens of the United States.

Other amendments have expanded American democracy. The 15th Amendment allowed all adult men, including former slaves, to vote. The 19th Amendment allowed women to vote. The 24th Amendment says states cannot discriminate against poor people by making people pay a tax if they want to vote. The 26th Amendment allowed 18-year-olds to vote.

In 1987, people celebrate the 200th anniversary of the signing of the Constitution at Independence Hall, in Philadelphia.