Constitution Day and Citizenship Day has been celebrated in the United States annually on September 17, since 2001, by decision of President George W. Bush. And the period from September 17 to 23 has been defined since 1955 as Constitution Week.
Many US citizens —, both those born in the United States and those who have acquired citizenship, regardless of nationality and religion —, celebrate this holiday, although it is not a state day off.
Historically, this day is significant in that on September 17, 1787, the United States adopted a Constitution signed by congressional delegates from 12 states, which clearly defined human rights and freedoms as a citizen of one’s country.
Before the Constitution, the United States lived by the Articles of Confederation.
The first 10 amendments to the Constitution, called the «Bill of Rights, were adopted by the first Congress in September 1789 and came into force in December 1791.
In 1940, Congress designated the 3rd Sunday in May as America's Day, which was subsequently renamed Constitution Day and shifted to September.
Every year for this holiday, the US Department of Education develops teaching aids, mandates and recommendations for schoolchildren and students. This day is celebrated with inspired speeches about the rights and honorable duties of every citizen.
During Constitution Week, classes are held in lessons on the history of its creation and signing, students read and quote excerpts. It is customary for wealthy citizens to make donations to charitable foundations.