7 Principles of the Constitution

Republicanism How Are People’s Views Represented in Government? Republicanism is based on the belief that the people exercise their power by voting for their political representatives…

Popular Sovereignty Who gives the Government its Power?? The Constitution rests on the idea of a government in which the people rule… “We the people…”

Federalism How is Power Shared? Federalism is a system of government in which power is divided between a central government and smaller political units, such as states. Delegated v. Reserved Powers

Federalism (It’s like a Snickers bar) Peanuts represent the local governments Caramel is the State governments that bind the local governments Chocolate is the Federal Government. It surrounds and protects the state and local governments.

Separation of Powers How is Power Divided? Legislative: Makes the laws Executive: Enforces the laws Judicial: Interprets the laws (decides if they are Constitutional) Government is divided into 3 separate branches No one branch is given all the power.

Checks and Balances How is Power Evenly Distributed? Each branch of government can exercise checks, or controls over the other branches.

President can veto laws Can impeach president; confirm presidential nominations

Limited Government How is Abuse of Power Prevented? In the American government everyone, citizens and powerful leaders alike, must obey the law.

Individual Rights How are Personal Freedoms Protected? Bill of Rights guarantees certain Individual Rights that the government can not take away.