The United States Constitution was signed in Philadelphia on September 17, 1787. When the Federal Convention delegates met to draft the articles that would govern a new nation they worked in secret. Years later the journals kept by Madison and the debates and proceedings were published and later distributed by the Government Printing Office. U.S. government documents trace the development of our constitution from inception through drafting the amendments known as the "Bill of Rights" and provide insight into the founding fathers who wrote and signed the document.

Visit our online Constitution exhibit, which highlights selected government documents on the making of the U.S. Constitution.

Exhibit prepared by the Government Information and Maps Department.