What do we call changes to the Constitution that have been proposed and ratified?

Changes to the Constitution that have been proposed and ratified are referred to as amendments. This term specifically describes formal modifications made to the text of the Constitution, which can address various aspects of governance, rights, and processes within the framework of the United States legal system. The amendment process is outlined in Article V of the Constitution, emphasizing the importance of both broad consensus for proposals and the need for ratification by a significant majority.

Statutes, on the other hand, are laws enacted by legislative bodies and do not alter the Constitution itself. Articles refer to the primary divisions of the Constitution, laying out the structure and powers of government, while declarations generally signify formal statements or announcements but are not related to constitutional changes. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for grasping the mechanisms through which the Constitution evolves in response to societal needs and values.