ABSTRACT
One of the most neglected parts of the Constitution is the sentence that provides its justification. Many of us can quote the Preamble (especially if singing counts, from the Schoolhouse Rock! television spots), 19 but it is cited only rarely in decisions of the Supreme Court. It is one long sentence, with many qualifiers:
We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
