Key Concepts
What does "limited government" mean in the context of the U.S. Constitution?
The government only has the powers the Constitution gives it, ensuring it cannot override the rights of the people.
What is the role of checks and balances in the U.S. government?
Ensures each branch has some control over the others to maintain balance and prevent abuse.
Why is the separation of powers important in preventing tyranny?
It prevents any one branch from gaining too much power and ensures freedom.
What is the significance of the Magna Carta in relation to limited government?
It introduced the idea that the government cannot override the rights of the people.
How has the U.S. Constitution influenced other governments around the world?
It serves as a model for creating laws and government structures in other nations.
What is "rule of law," and why is it important?
Everyone must obey the law, including government officials; it ensures fairness and justice.
How does the Legislative branch check the power of the Executive branch?
Congress can override a Presidential veto with enough votes.
Can you name the three branches of the U.S. government and their primary functions?
Legislative (makes laws), Executive (enforces laws), Judicial (interprets laws).
How did Enlightenment thinkers influence the U.S. Constitution?
Philosophers like Montesquieu proposed ideas like separation of powers and checks and balances.
What is the U.S. Constitution’s role in spreading democracy?
It promotes democracy by valuing rule of law and protecting rights.
Explain the term "due process of law."
The government must respect all legal rights owed to a person according to the law.
How does the Executive branch check the power of the Judicial branch?
The President can appoint judges, but these appointments must be approved by the Senate.
Describe the difference between separation of powers and checks and balances.
Separation of powers divides roles among branches, while checks and balances allow branches to check each other’s powers.
Name a key idea from the Magna Carta that shaped the U.S. Constitution.
Limited government and protection of individual rights.
Why do other nations look to the U.S. Constitution as a model?
Its focus on limiting government power and protecting individual rights.
Name three rights the U.S. government cannot take away from individuals.
Life, liberty, and property.
How does the Judicial branch check the power of the Legislative branch?
The Supreme Court can declare laws made by Congress unconstitutional.
How do separation of powers and checks and balances work together to limit government power?
Separation of powers divides responsibilities, and checks and balances ensure cooperation, limiting dominance by any branch.
Why is Montesquieu significant to the principles in the Constitution?
He proposed dividing government into branches to prevent tyranny.
How does the principle of limited government promote peace and cooperation among countries?
It creates systems that prioritize fairness and equality, encouraging peaceful relations.
What is a constitutional government?
A government whose power is defined and limited by law.
How do checks and balances prevent one branch from becoming too powerful?
By requiring branches to cooperate and compromise, no single branch can dominate.
Which Enlightenment thinker influenced the idea of separation of powers?
Montesquieu.
How does the U.S. Constitution reflect the Enlightenment idea of preventing tyranny?
It ensures power is divided, preventing one group from dominating.
What democratic principles from the U.S. Constitution are often adopted globally?
Rule of law, separation of powers, and protection of individual rights.