The National Archives

The National Archives and Records Administration is the national record keeper. An independent agency created by statute in 1934, the National Archives safeguards records of all three branches of the Federal Government. The mission of the National Archives is to ensure that Federal officials and the American public have ready access to essential evidence-records that document the rights of citizens, the actions of Government officials, and the national experience. Each year, the National Archives declassifies hundreds of thousands of pages of documents. Through the declassification process, the National Archives staff follow legal requirements designed to balance the need for national security and the protection of intelligence sources with the public's right to know
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On December 15, 1952, President Harry S. Truman presided over the unveiling of the Declaration of Independence, Constitution of the United States, and Bill of Rights in the Rotunda of the National Archives. It is a great opportunity to view the signed documents that have come to be known as "The Charters of Freedom." Declaration of Independence, Constitution of the United States and Bill of Rights reflect passion and poignanacy of the struggle for freedom that has defined much of U.S. history. It was awesome opportunity to appreciate the Charters of Freedom and Magna Carta-Great Charter that lead to the rule of consitutional law.

-CL