TED-ED: Why is the US Constitution so hard to amend? - Peter Paccone

The US Constitution allows amendments but is difficult to change due to high thresholds set by its founders. Only 27 amendments have passed since its inception. The process requires a 2/3 vote in Congress or state legislatures and ratification by 3/4 of states. Historical amendments like the Bill of Rights and those post-Civil War were significant. Modern challenges include political polarization, making consensus hard. The Supreme Court often interprets laws to adapt to changes. Thomas Jefferson suggested laws should expire to avoid obstacles in political processes.

What are the two main requirements for proposing an amendment to the Constitution?

Why is it difficult to ratify amendments in the United States?

What was the significance of the Bill of Rights in the context of the Constitution?

How did the Civil War impact the passing of amendments like the 13th, 14th, and 15th?

What alternative method has been used to achieve progress in constitutional interpretation?