Citizenship/Obligations and Responsibilities
The 2 ways to be a citizen at birth and their meanings
Law of Soil-born on U.S. soil, territory, or military base
Law of blood-born to at least one American parent
Purpose of a written constitution
To document what the gov is allowed to do. Highlight rights of citizens, and encourage rule of law
responses may vary
Idea of Rule of Law
No one is above the law
Philosopher who gave the idea of natural rights and social contract. What are they
John Locke
Rights to life, liberty, property
Relationship between the people and gov
All people including government officials are accountable (legally responsible) for their actions
Accountability to the law
The steps to become naturalized
be at least 18
be a permanent resident for 5 years
have good moral character
read, write, speak enough English to pass test
pass test on civics, government and U.S. history
oath of allegiance
How Ancient Greece influenced civic participation in America's constitutional republic
Giving citizens the right to vote
Purpose of limited government
prevent the government from abusive/arbitrary acts
Philosopher who gave idea of separation of powers. What is it
Montesquieu. To prevent abusive government
Everyone should be treated the same UNDER the legal system no matter who they are
Consistent Application of the law
List the 4 obligations and 4 responsibilities
O- obey the law, pay taxes, jury duty, defend the nation/selective service
R- voting, petition gov, attend civic meetings, run for office
How ancient Rome's influence contributed to the American system of government
Republicanism/Representative government
Idea of Due Process
No person can have their rights stripped away with a fair process (jury trial, court, etc...)
Aside from limited government, what rights were granted under the magna carta
Due process, right to justice, right to a fair trial
Laws are known to all and trials are public
Transparency of Institutions
Carlo has lived most of his life in Italy, but now he wants to become a U.S. citizen. He came to the United States three years ago, has been a legal resident ever since. He has never been in trouble with the law, either in the United States or in Italy. He enjoys owning his own home and living in a wealthy neighborhood. Carlo is 25 years old, speaks English very well and has recently taken a class at local community college on U.S. history for new citizens. He filled out his naturalization application form last week.
Can Carlo become a citizen right now? Why or why not?
No, he has not been a permanent resident for 5 years
Principle of ancient Rome did the American founders incorporate into the Constitution to ensure a balance of power
Separation of Powers
we are all equal as human beings
Impact of Thomas Paine's Common Sense
Declare independence from British rule and create a representative self-government
Laws are not based on popular opinion
Decisions based on law
Why is fulfilling the responsibilities of citizenship important to the common good, even though it isn’t required by law?
It allows citizen to exercise their individual rights, use their voice in government to create change, and to contribute to their communities.
Responses may vary
Aspect of the Judeo-Christian tradition influenced the American system of justice
All humans matter
Responsible for our own actions
Do good deeds
Why religious freedom is a protected right
to protect citizens from persecution for their beliefs
Safeguards provided under the English Bill of Rights
No tax without representation, right to a speedy and fair trial, no excessive punishment, guaranteed the right to life, liberty, and property
Importance of due process in the United States legal system
guarantees all legal processes by the government are equal and fair