1. The Constitution
Chapter 3

3. Federalist Papers, No. 51 – Primary Source

4. I. Structure and Principles
Oldest written constitution still in effect today
Has lasted 222 years due to the flexibility and adaptability of the document
Flexible due to its very nature, which is brief & ambiguous

5. A. The Preamble Preamble – Introduction to the Constitution
Details six goals of the Constitution
1) “To form a more perfect Union”
Wanted to create a better government than the Articles of Confederation
2) “To establish justice”

6. 3) “To insure domestic tranquility” 4) “Provide a common defense”
Preservations of peace within the nation
4) “Provide a common defense”
Protect citizens against foreign enemies
5) “To promote the general welfare”
All individuals given equal opportunity for success
6) “To secure the blessings of liberty”
Protection of individual freedoms

8. B. Articles and Amendments
Articles – Constitution contains seven divisions or parts
Supremacy Clause – The Constitution, laws passed by Congress, and treaties of the U.S. are the supreme laws of the land
Amendments- Provide changes to the original document

10. C. Major Principles Popular Sovereignty – Rule by the people
Federalism – Governmental power is divided between the federal and state government
Helps limited the federal government’s power

11. Separation of Powers – Division of power among the three branches of government
Ensures that no single branch of government becomes too powerful
Each branch is given powers that can’t be assumed by another branch

13. Judicial Review – Power of the Supreme Court to declare laws unconstitutional
Marbury v. Madison (1803) – Gave the Court the power to declare laws unconstitutional