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Dive into the core principles of the US Constitution, such as popular sovereignty, federalism, separation of powers, and individual rights, to grasp the foundation of American governance. Explore the significance of the Bill of Rights, checks and balances, and the duties and responsibilities of a citizen. Discover how the branches of government operate and the process of amending the Constitution.
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Chapter 8 Review Mr. Klein
7 Key Principles of the Constitution Popular Sovereignty – “We the people” at the beginning of the preamble lays out that the authority lies with the people. Republicanism – people rule through elected representatives. Representatives make laws and run government on behalf of the people. Limited Government – Powers of government are strictly defined. Has only the powers given to it by the people.
7 Key Principles of the Constitution Federalism – power divided between Federal and state governments. Enumerated powers – those given to Congress. Reserved powers – those that belong to the states. Concurrent powers – share powers. Separation of Powers – Three branches of government. Legislative, Executive and Judicial. Checks and Balances – all three branches can check and balance each other so that no one gets too powerful. Individual Rights – Bill of Rights added to constitution in 1791. Guarantees all Americans basic freedoms and liberties.
Implied Powers “Elastic clause” directs Congress to “make all Laws which shall be necessary and proper” for carrying out its duties. “Commerce clause” gives Congress power to “regulate Commerce with foreign Nations, and among the several States.”
Federal Government Legislative Branch – Senate & House of Representatives – 435 Representatives and 100 Senators. Reps serve two year terms and Senators serve six year terms Congress makes the nations laws. Both houses must agree on a bill, bill goes to president, president signs the bill. Executive branch – president – Serves four year term. Carries out the laws and commander and chief of armed forces. Judicial branch – Supreme court and district courts. Supreme court has judicial review. Can review actions of executive and legislative branches.
Duties and Responsibilities of a Citizen Born in the USA and you are a citizen Can also become a citizen through the process of naturalization. Duties – obey the law, pay taxes, sit on jury duty, defending the country. Responsibilities – voting allows you to participate in government and guide its direction.