America was built not on a monarchy, a religion, or a single cultural identity, but on a set of written principles — documents that defined who we are, how we govern ourselves, and what rights we are guaranteed. The Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights are the foundation of our political identity, the blueprint for our laws, and the touchstone for every debate about freedom, equality, and justice.
These documents are not relics. They continue to shape our daily lives, our institutions, and our most urgent national conversations. Understanding them — truly understanding them — is essential to any honest discussion about American values, civic responsibility, or public policy.
This section of the site brings together America’s founding texts in their original form, followed by clear, accessible explanations of their history, meaning, and modern relevance. Here you’ll find both the documents themselves and deeper explorations of their provisions, including individual amendments and key clauses that continue to influence our laws and our politics.
Below is a complete list of America’s founding documents and related materials for your study and reference.