Whereas, on September 17, 1787, the Constitution of the United States was signed by 39 delegates from 12 States; Whereas the Constitution of the United States was subsequently ratified by each of the original 13 States; Whereas James Madison and the other delegates drafted the Constitution of the United States in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty for the people of the United States; Whereas the Constitution of the United States has provided the means and structure for the United States and the people of the United States to achieve a level of prosperity, liberty, security, and justice that is unparalleled among nations; Whereas the contributions of the Constitution of the United States to the welfare of individuals reach far beyond the borders of the United States; Whereas the Constitution of the United States— (1) was the first permanent constitution in the world adopted by elected representatives; (2) includes seminal ideas about individual rights, the separation of powers, and the rule of law; and (3) has inspired the constitutional systems of government of countries throughout the world; Whereas the Constitution of the United States has been amended 27 times since its adoption and includes amendments that reflect the will of the people of the United States to form a more perfect Union , such as amendments to recognize and protect individual rights, eliminate slavery, and expand the franchise; Whereas the Senate continues to strive to preserve and strengthen the values and rights bestowed on the United States and the people of the United States by the Constitution of the United States