1. Structure and Principles
US Constitution
Structure and Principles

2. Creating a new Constitution
Structure:
Preamble: introduction states WHY the constitution was written
Provide stability and order, protect citizen’s liberties and serve the people
Articles: 7 divisions over a general topic about the structure of the new government
Amendments: changes to the constitution
27 amendments currently

3. Major Principles of the Constitution
Popular Sovereignty: rule by the people
US Government is based on the consent of the people; authority flows from the people

4. Major Principles of the Constitution
Federalism: power is divided between national and state governments
Limit central power and distribute authority
Federal government has power to act for the nation and states have control over local matters

6. Major Principles of the Constitution
Separation of Powers: divides powers amongst legislative, executive and judicial branches
Each branch has responsibilities
No one gets too much power

8. Major Principles of the Constitution
Checks and Balances: each branch of government has some control over others

10. Major Principles of the Constitution
Rule of Law: even the government must adhere to the law

11. Major Principles of the Constitution
Limited Government: limits the actions of government by specifically listing powers it does and does not have
Protects against abuse of power

12. Ticket out the Door Explain what this quote means:
The United States government is a “government of laws, not of men.” – John Adams