Emancipation Hall in the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center
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E PLURIBUS UNUM —
OUT OF MANY, ONE

HISTORY OF CONGRESS
AND THE CAPITOL

General Welfare

The Congress shall have Power To ... provide for the ... general Welfare
Article I, Section 8, Constitution of the United States

Congress is charged by the Constitution with providing for the general welfare of the country's citizens. Historically, this has meant improving transportation, promoting agriculture and industry, protecting health and the environment, and seeking ways to solve social and economic problems. These documents reflect Congressional actions to ensure "the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity."

 
History of Congress and the Capitol