Fundamental Principles
a representative form of government where leaders are elected by the people
REPUBLICANISM
These documents were written to give colonists the same rights as Englishmen
Charters of the Virginia Company of London
This promise from the preamble says that the country will make sure that there is peace within our borders
"insure domestic tranquility"
This amendment gives Americans due process in federal law, including not having to testify against themselves
5th
This branch of the government makes the laws
Legislative Branch
power is divided and equally shared between federal and state governments
FEDERALISM
This document was the first to state that everyone was subject to the law, even the king
Magna Carta
This promise from the preamble makes sure that every citizen enjoys the freedoms of being an American
"secure the blessings of liberty"
This amendment makes sure Americans are not subject to cruel and unusual punishments through the legal system
8th
This branch of the government tells what the laws mean (interprets)
Judicial Branch
each of the 3 branches keeps the other branches from becoming too powerful
CHECKS AND BALANCES
This document was the first written government of the United States and was too weak to stand
Articles of Confederation
This promise of the preamble says that everyone will be protected from enemy attacks by our military
"provide for the common defense"
This amendment says that citizens have the right to carry a firearm
2nd
This branch of the government carries out the laws(executes)
Executive Branch
the powers and responsibilities of the government are divided into 3 equal parts
SEPARATION OF POWERS
This document was written to declare that the colonies no longer were going to be under British rule
Declaration of Independence
This promise of the preamble says laws will be fair for everyone
"establish justice"
This amendment makes sure that you and your property cannot be searched without a warrant
4th
This branch of the government is bicameral (has 2 houses)
power comes from the people
POPULAR SOVEREIGNTY
This document was written to replace the Articles of Confederation and STILL STANDS TODAY!
The U.S. Constitution
The first 3 words of the preamble are...
"We the People..."
This amendment makes sure that people have the right to their own religion, can gather together, and can petition the government
1st
This branch of the government is led by the president
Executive Branch