Citing the United States Constitution in MLA Format
The United States Constitution is one of the most revered and important documents in American history. As a source, it is often used in academic writing, research papers, and historical analyses. When citing the Constitution in MLA (Modern Language Association) format, it is essential to follow the guidelines set by the MLA Handbook to ensure accuracy and credibility. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cite the Constitution in MLA format.
Basic Citing Information
The MLA citation style requires you to include the following information when citing the Constitution:
- Title of the document (United States Constitution)
- Page numbers (if applicable)
- State or city of publication (not always necessary)
- Publication date (optional)
MLA Citation Style for the Constitution
The MLA citation style for the Constitution is as follows:
Lastname, Firstname. Title of the Document. Title of the Collection or Database, Edited by Firstname Lastname, Publisher, Year of Publication, pp. Page Numbers.
For example:
See the example below:
| Format | Example |
|---|---|
| Print Edition | U.S. Constitution. The Federal and State Constitutions, Colonial Charters, and Other Organic Laws of the United States, edited by Francis Newton Thorpe, Government Printing Office, 1909, pp. 3-17. |
| Online Edition | U.S. Constitution. The Avalon Project, Yale Law School, |
Citing the Constitution Online
When citing the Constitution online, you may encounter various digital platforms, websites, and databases. In this case, you should include the URL of the website and the date of access:
Lastname, Firstname. Title of the Document. Title of the Collection or Database, Edited by Firstname Lastname, Publisher, Year of Publication, pp. Page Numbers. Accessed Date of Access.
For example:
U.S. Constitution. The Avalon Project, Yale Law School,
Additional Tips and Reminders
When citing the Constitution in MLA format, keep in mind the following tips and reminders:
- Use the title of the document (United States Constitution) instead of the name of the document (e.g., "The Constitution of the United States").
- Use the state or city of publication only if it is necessary (e.g., the city of publication is relevant to the document).
- Include the page numbers if they are relevant to the specific section or clause being cited.
- Use the URL and date of access for online editions.
- Consult the MLA Handbook or online resources for more detailed information and examples.
Conclusion
Citing the United States Constitution in MLA format may seem daunting, but following the guidelines provided above will ensure accuracy and credibility in your academic writing. Remember to consult the MLA Handbook or online resources for more detailed information and examples. By citing the Constitution properly, you demonstrate respect for the document and its historical significance, as well as attention to detail in your research and writing.
