Tocqueville American Values
This value allows individuals to pursue their goals, express their beliefs, and engage in activities without government interference - in today's society it allows Americans to think creatively and achieve individual fulfillment
Liberty
What are three unalienable rights identified in the Declaration of Independence?
Life, Liberty and the pursuit of happiness
What are the 3 branches of government?
Article I - Legislative
Article II - Executive
Article III - Judicial
What is E. Pluribus Unum and what is the significance of it?
Out of many one - representing the 13 colonies uniting as one nation and represents the melting pot of cultures and backgrounds
Significance - represents the foundational principle of pluralism and federalism; it appears on the Great Seal, currency (money) and various government documents
Who wrote "Democracy in America"?
Alexis de Tocqueville
This value promotes the idea of equality and fairness, ensuring that everyone has access to opportunities regardless of their background or circumstances. In society today, it allows for equal treatment under the law.
Egalitarianism
Where do governments get their power?
The consent of the governed (the people)
What is an amendment to the Constitution?
A change, addition, or repeal of a former law
What is the official motto of the United States and why is it significant?
In God We Trust signifies a reliance on faith and religious values.
Significance: adopted during the Cold War to distinguish the US from the "godless" Soviet Union and other nations who restrict citizens religious practices - used on all currency since 1957
What is the preamble to the Constitution? What does it emphasize?
"We the people" It emphasizes the authority comes from the people rather than the states, with goals to establish justice, ensure tranquility, provide defense and secure liberty (Popular Sovereignty)
This value refers to the principle of minimal government intervention in economic activities. (little or no government regulations of businesses) This has contributed to America's success by encouraging innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth.
Laissez-faire
According to the Declaration of Independence, what can the people do if their government becomes destructive ?
The right of the people to alter or to abolish it and to institute a new government.
The first 10 Amendments of the Constitution are known as _____________.
The Bill of Rights
What are the key requirements for Naturalization?
Age - 18 years old
Permanent Resident - lawful permanent residence (green card holder) for at least 5 years (3 years if married to US Citizen)
Good Moral Character - generally means no criminal record
English & Civics - you must show an ability to read, write and speak basic English and pass a US history and government test
Oath of Allegiance - must be willing to take an oath of allegiance to the US
Name two founding primary documents of the United States?
This value supports concerns of ordinary people. Active participation of common people in political life. All people participate in government not just the elite.
Populism
In the declaration, what grievances were listed by the colonist? (In other words, what were the reasons listed for the colonies to declare their independence from Great Britain?)
imposing taxes without permission, requiring quartering of British soldiers in their homes, cutting off trade with the world
How does the US Constitution limit government powers?
Checks and Balances and Separation of powers - Distributes power among legislative, executive, and judicial branches to prevent any single branch from becoming too powerful.
List Civic Responsibilities and what could happen if citizens failed to carry out their responsibilities.
Serving on juries, paying taxes, voting in elections, lobbying for beliefs
The country would not function successfully. It could lead to chaos and disorder in society.
How are the Bill of Rights and the Declaration of Independence connected?
The amendments included in the Bill of Rights further addressed grievances the colonists listed in the Declaration
Example - Amendment 3 - no quartering of soldiers relating to a grievance listed in Declaration of housing British soldiers
Values the wishes of the individual over the whole in society. Example - self reliant, freedom of actions by the individual
Individualism
What year was the Declaration of Independence signed?
1776
Why is the US Constitution important?
The _________ lists freedoms and protections guaranteed to all US citizens.
Bill of Rights
What is civic participation or civic responsibilities and why is it important.
allows Americans to actively engage with their government by communicating their views and concerns on important issues