How many amendments does the U.S. Constitution currently contain?

The U.S. Constitution currently contains 27 amendments. This includes the original ten amendments, known as the Bill of Rights, which were ratified in 1791, as well as additional amendments that have been added over the years. The process of amending the Constitution is intentionally rigorous, requiring significant consensus both in Congress and among the states, which contributes to the relatively low number of amendments compared to legislation in general. Since the late 20th century, there have been no new amendments added, solidifying the count at 27. Understanding this framework is essential for grasping the historical and legal context of U.S. governance.