The United States House of Representatives functions as the lower chamber of the U.S. Congress, working alongside the Senate to pass federal legislation. It holds distinctive powers, such as initiating all revenue bills, impeaching federal officers, and electing the president if no candidate secures a majority in the Electoral College. Since 1913, the House has been composed of 435 voting representatives, each serving a two-year term and directly elected from districts apportioned based on state population.

This foundational body was established under Article One of the U.S. Constitution during the Constitutional Convention, which convened from May 25 to September 17, 1787, to remedy the weaknesses of the prior unicameral system. Presided over by the Speaker of the House and meeting in the U.S. Capitol, the House continues to be a vital component of the nation's legislative process.