The Copyright Clause

The Copyright Clause, found in the U.S. Constitution, gives Congress the authority to create laws that protect creators' rights to their original works, such as books, music, and inventions. Its purpose is to encourage innovation and creativity by ensuring creators can benefit financially and control how their work is used. These protections are limited in time, after which works enter the public domain, allowing everyone to use them freely. The clause balances rewarding creators with advancing society by promoting continued innovation and cultural growth.