VOA慢速英语:James Madison, Father of the Constitution

Words in This Story
 
confederacy – n. a group of people, countries, organizations, etc., that are joined together in some activity or effort

cradle - n. the place where something begins — usually singular —usually + of

ratify – v. to approve a document officially by voting

consensus  n. a general agreement about something; an idea or opinion that is shared by all the people in a group

checks and balances - n. a fundamental principle of American government, guaranteed by the Constitution, whereby each branch of the government (executive, judicial, and legislative) has some measure of influence over the other branches and may choose to block procedures of the other branches.

charismatic - adj. having great charm or appeal

Now it's your turn. Do you know who is responsible for your country's constitution? Who helped to found your country? Write to us in the comments section.