People
What was the primary occupation of colonial Americans?
farmer
Do natural rights belong to all people?
yes
What is the primary characteristic of a constitution?
it sets fundamental principles and guarantees citizens rights
What is the primary difference between a direct democracy and a republican government?
in a direct democracy, citizens vote on laws directly and in a republican government elected representatives mane decisions
What are the 3 branches of government and what do they do?
Legislative- make and pass laws
Judicial- solve disputes about the laws and interpret the laws
Executive- execute and carry out the laws
What was an indentured servant?
people who sold their labor for passage to North America
Who were the only people that could vote in colonial times?
white male property owners
Which branch of the government is divided into two houses?
Legislative- House of Representatives and Senate
What are natural rights?
rights that cannot be taken away- fundamental rights like life, liberty and pursuit of happiness (property) that belong to everyone
What is the checks and balances system?
makes sure that no single branch has more power than the other
Which English Philosopher heavily influenced the Founding Fathers?
John Locke
Does a constitutional government typically make decisions quickly?
no they do not
Along which ocean were the 13 colonies settled?
Atlantic Ocean
What is a "state of nature"?
a condition with no rules or government that exists
Who has to follow the higher laws of the constitution?
all citizens
Who was known as the "Father of the Constitution"?
James Madison
Is the United States a direct democracy?
no
What is the primary purpose of a constitutional limits on government?
to protect citizens private domain
What is a social contract?
people giving up some freedoms in exchange for government protection and benefits
What does consent of the governed mean?
government must act in citizens best interests
Who influenced the Founders ideas about republican government?
The Romans
In a republic, to whom do citizens delegate their power?
representatives
Is an immigrant a permanent resident from another country?
yes
What is separation of powers?
Government divided into 3 branches that cannot overpower each other- creates a balance between branches
What type of government has absolute power?
Autocratic/dictatorial government