Citizenship
What is a citizen
A person with rights and duties under a government. Or a legally recognized member of a country.
What are laws?
Rules made by the government to keep order and protect rights.
Which English document first limited the power of the king?
The Magna Carta (1215).
Who wrote most of the Declaration of Independence?
Thomas Jefferson.
What do we call the first 10 amendments to the Constitution?
The Bill of Rights.
Name one way to become a U.S. citizen by birth.
Be born in the U.S. or to U.S. citizen parents.
What is constitutional law based on?
The U.S. Constitution and state constitutions.
Which English philosopher believed in “natural rights”?
John Locke.
When was the Declaration adopted?
July 4, 1776.
What is a government?
The organization that makes and enforces laws.
What is naturalization?
The legal process to become a U.S. citizen.
What is common law based on?
Court decisions and past rulings (precedent). OR oral tradition and customs.
What did the Mayflower Compact show about early colonists?
They could govern themselves through agreements.
What are the three “unalienable rights” listed in the Declaration?
Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
What does the term rule of law mean?
Everyone, including leaders, must follow the law.
Name one civic duty and one civic responsibility.
Duty: Obey laws / pay taxes. Responsibility: Vote / volunteer.
What is statutory law?
Laws written and passed by legislatures (Congress).
What idea from Montesquieu influenced the U.S. government?
Separation of powers.
What is the main purpose of the Declaration?
To explain why the colonies wanted independence from Britain.
What document created America’s first government before the Constitution?
The Articles of Confederation.
What can happen if you don’t perform your civic duties?
You can face legal consequences (fines, jail, etc.).
Give one example of a civil law and one of a criminal law.
Civil: Property dispute / lawsuit. Criminal: Theft, assault, etc.
How did colonial experiences with British rule lead to revolution?
Colonists felt their rights were ignored and wanted self-government.
What do the “grievances” in the Declaration list?
Complaints against King George III and British rule.
What is the social contract idea?
People agree to give up some freedoms for government protection.