The Official GOAT List: Ranking the Greatest U.S. Legislation of All Time

U.S. Legislation

From the Constitution’s first ink strokes to modern fights for equality and justice, these landmark acts tell the story of America’s constant reinvention. Each piece of legislation marks a moment when words on paper reshaped what freedom, fairness, and opportunity meant for millions. Some expanded rights, others built safety nets, and a few — like the Emancipation Proclamation and Nineteenth Amendment — redefined who “We the People” truly includes. Together, they form the moral and legal backbone of the nation. Vote for the piece of legislation that left the biggest mark on American life — the moments when ideals became law.

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U.S. Legislation

1. U.S. CONSTITUTION (1787)

U.S. Constitution (1787) is currently the #1 Greatest U.S. Legislation of All Time winning 81.6% head-to-head battles.

U.S. Legislation

2. BILL OF RIGHTS (1791)

Bill of Rights (1791) is currently the #2 Greatest U.S. Legislation of All Time winning 71.1% head-to-head battles.

U.S. Legislation

3. CIVIL RIGHTS ACT (1964)

Civil Rights Act (1964) is currently the #3 Greatest U.S. Legislation of All Time winning 53.0% head-to-head battles.

U.S. Legislation

4. THIRTEENTH AMENDMENT (1865)

Thirteenth Amendment (1865) is currently the #4 Greatest U.S. Legislation of All Time winning 51.9% head-to-head battles.

U.S. Legislation

5. EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION (1863)

Emancipation Proclamation (1863) is currently the #5 Greatest U.S. Legislation of All Time winning 44.8% head-to-head battles.

U.S. Legislation

6. SOCIAL SECURITY ACT (1935)

Social Security Act (1935) is currently the #6 Greatest U.S. Legislation of All Time winning 32.5% head-to-head battles.

U.S. Legislation

7. NINETEENTH AMENDMENT (1920)

Nineteenth Amendment (1920) is currently the #7 Greatest U.S. Legislation of All Time winning 29.9% head-to-head battles.

U.S. Legislation

8. AFFORDABLE CARE ACT (2010)

Affordable Care Act (2010) is currently the #8 Greatest U.S. Legislation of All Time winning 6.3% head-to-head battles.