The Living Constitution

CHANGES IN THE PRESIDENCY

While historians have often noted the changes in the power of the presidency, other important aspects of the office have changed as well. These include how the President is selected, when the President takes office, how many terms the President may serve, and how the office of the President is to be filled when vacant. The time line lists some of the most important amendments, laws, and other developments concerning these areas of the nation's highest office.

Click on the description of each entry to read about these issues concerning the office of President.

Questions for Discussion

Which amendment deals with a vacancy in the office of Vice President? When and why was this provision first used?

For what reason do you think the Twentieth Amendment was passed?

---