8. What is a Constitution? Answer—" The principles or fundamental laws which govern a State." Another definition is: "The body of rules and maxims in accordance with which the powers of sovereignty are habitually exercised."
9. Is the Constitution of North Carolina the highest law? Answer—No; the Constitution of the United States, and the laws of the United States passed in pursuance thereto, are the supreme law.
10. Is the Constitution of North Carolina higher than the Acts passed by the General Assembly? Answer—Yes; acts contrary to the Constitution are null and void.
11. Who decides whether acts are constitutional and binding or not? Answer—The Courts.
12. Give a simple explanation of the Constitution of North Carolina. Answer—It is a written document in which the people of North Carolina have laid down their plan of government of the State. It designates what officers are to make the laws, what officers are to interpret the laws, and what officers are to enforce the laws. It lays down laws for the guidance of these officers. If any officer acts contrary to it he is liable to punishment: It is the organic or fundamental law—the foundation stone on which our State government rests. It guards and enforces the liberties of the people. If officers are allowed to disobey it, our liberties will be in danger. Hence every citizen should understand it, so that he may watch the officers and hold them to their duties.
13. Can it be changed? Answer—Yes; the people of the State can change or amend it. The manner in which the people can change it is prescribed in the Constitution itself, as will be seen hereafter.
14. Can it be changed in any other way? Answer—Yes; if an amendment to the Constitution of the United States, contrary to any provision of the State Constitution, is made according to law, the latter must yield.
PREAMBLE.
1. Who made the Constitution?
2. For what purpose was it made?