Amendment
A formal change made to a law, contract, or constitution
Real World Example
In history, amendments have allowed the U.S. Constitution to evolve and address issues of citizenship and rights, such as with the 14th Amendment, which granted citizenship to all persons born or naturalized in the United States, including former enslaved people. This was crucial in responding to post-Civil War challenges of integrating freed slaves into American society as equal citizens. Today, amendments remain vital as they enable legal changes that reflect modern societal values and needs, ensuring laws remain relevant. For example, the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote, continues to empower women in politics and society. This ability to amend laws ensures that citizens' rights and needs are continually addressed, impacting individuals' lives directly, such as through voting rights and equal protection under the law.
