The United States Constitution
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The Romans believed that government can only survive with active, informed citizens. Let us continue this tradition. This page will the main ideas embodied in the U.S. Constitution. Take this responsibility seriously, but have fun on the journey!
The Constitution is our plan for government. The Articles of the Constitution talk about the duties of the three main parts of government: the Executive Branch, the Legislative Branch, and the Judicial Branch. The articles also talk about the separate powers of the Federal and State government, and how to change the Constitution. |
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The Constitution is based on fundamental principles or ideas. Start your journey by understanding the meanings of each principle.
POPULAR SOVEREIGNTY
The principle that the source of governmental power (sovereignty) lies with the people (popular). This idea is based on the concept of the social contract, the idea that government should be for the benefit of its citizens.
Limited government
A limited government is a system in which the primary leaders have very little governing powers over the decisions and laws that are created without approval from other branches or leaders within the government.
Separation of Powers
Separation of powers refers to the division of government responsibilities into distinct branches to limit any one branch from exercising the core functions of another. The intent is to prevent the concentration of power.
Checks and balances
The system of checks and balances in government was developed to ensure that no one branch of government would become too powerful. It includes various limits and controls on the powers of each branch of government.
Judicial review
The idea that the actions of the executive and legislative branches of government are subject to review and possible invalidation by the Supreme Court.
federalism
A system of government in which the same territory is controlled by two levels of government. An overarching national government is responsible for broader governance of larger territorial areas, while the smaller subdivisions, states, and cities govern the issues of local concern.
When you are finished reviewing the materials above, answer the following questions. Your answers should be at least 250 words.
1. Why is a written constitution a good idea?
2. What is the purpose of “amending” the Constitution?
3. What’s more important (and why), strong federal and weak local government; weak federal and strong local government; equal power between state and local governments?
1. Why is a written constitution a good idea?
2. What is the purpose of “amending” the Constitution?
3. What’s more important (and why), strong federal and weak local government; weak federal and strong local government; equal power between state and local governments?