This Article helps to complete the historical record, providing a thorough accounting of the Fifteenth Amendment's text, history, and purpose. Congress is made up of a Senate and a House of Representatives.The authority to amend the Constitution of the United States is derived from Article V of the Constitution. This essay examines Article V's procedures for amending the Constitution. It begins with an overview of the historical background of Article V. Amendment XV. Section 1. In the 220 years since the Bill of Rights was introduced, 17 additional amendments have been made to the Constitution. This edition updates information about proposed amendments. Boxed fast facts and pen-and-ink drawings and spot art break up the text. The majority of Travis County voters who cast ballots this election voted against three of the propositions that ultimately passed.