Types of Democracy
What is a democracy?
A democracy is a form of government run by the people and not one singular ruler.
What is the legislative branch?
The legislative branch is congress.
In the U.S. government, what are "checks and balances?"
Checks and balances is the term used to describe the fact that our three branches all work together to make sure no one branch or person becomes too powerful. (We don't want another King George!)
What is the federal government?
The federal government is the main government (the big boy gov).
What is a bill?
A bill is a baby law (a law that has not been officially passed yet).
What is a direct democracy?
A direct democracy is when all citizens vote for laws and every person's vote is equal.
What is the executive branch?
The executive branch is the president!
What does it mean to veto a bill?
When you veto a bill, you are saying no to it.
Do states have their own constitutions?
What is the date of our independence?
July 4th, 1776
What is a democratic republic?
A democratic republic is a form of government where the people elect representatives who will vote for them.
What is the judicial branch?
The judicial branch is the supreme court.
What does it mean when congress overrides a president's veto?
This means, if there is a majority vote, congress can still pass a law the president said no to. (Vetoing the veto!)
Give an example of a law that might be different by state.
- where you can purchase certain items
- the minimum driving age
- sales/property taxes
- items that can be sold
What are the two parts of federal congress?
The House of Representatives and the Senate.
Who were the "senators" in our democratic republic election (of the U.S. 4.5)?
Jackson and Elliot!
What is the main power of the judicial branch?
The judicial branch (Supreme Court) decides whether laws are constitutional.
What happens if the Supreme Court decides a law is unconstitutional?
The law changes!
How are state governments set up?
State governments are like mini federal governments. They have their own governor, (like the president of the state) legislation, (state congress) and high court (mini Supreme Court).
True or false: William Howard Taft (27th President of the U.S.) got stuck in a bathtub while bathing in the White House.
False! This is a myth - however, he did have to have a custom, bigger bathtub built for him.
Does our country have a direct democracy or a democratic republic?
Democratic republic
What are some of the powers of the legislative branch?
The legislative branch can pass laws, declare war, override a president's veto, and approve presidential appointments (like the cabinet and Supreme Court judges).
What is the president's main responsibility?
To enforce laws.
Do state governments have to follow federal laws?
Yes!
What is the first amendment of the constitution?
The first amendments protects fundamental rights such as the freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of press, the freedom to peacefully assemble (protest), etc.