A constitution is a set of laws that governs the structure and function of a government. It usually defines the relationship between institutions of a state, including a head of government, legislative and executive branches and a judiciary. Many constitutions also seek to regulate the power of those institutions and establish broad governing principles.
The English Protectorate that emerged after the English Civil War promulgated the first detailed written constitution in modern history in 1653. Known as the Instrument of Government it codified Parliament’s control over issuing new taxation, created an independent council to advise the Lord Protector and guaranteed triennial Parliaments. It was replaced by a new constitution in May 1657, called the Humble Petition and Advice which restored hereditary monarchy but offered an independent council and safeguarded Parliament’s control over imposing new taxes. These early experiments laid the foundation for modern constitution building, particularly the concepts of bicameralism and separation of powers.
Article IV
The Congress shall have the Power to make all Laws necessary and proper for carrying into Execution the foregoing Powers, and for the Purposes of this Constitution, including raising and supporting Armies, providing for the Punishment of Crimes committed against the United States, and for the Protection and Security of the United States and its Citizens, both at Home and Abroad. The Congress shall have the Power to lay and collect Taxes, Duties and Imposts to pay the Debts of the United States, and for the Support of the Militia of the United States, and for other purposes provided in this Constitution.