Principles
Government has the power that the people give it
Limited Government
Declaration of Independence
This was the first form of government in the U.S. but had a weak national government
Articles of Confederation
These are the first 10 Amendments
The Bill of Rights
Everyone, including elected officials, must follow the law.
The people give the government its power
Popular Sovereignty
Signed by King John, this established Rule of Law.
Magna Carta
This plan wanted to represent states equally in Congress
New Jersey Plan
These are your 1st amendment rights
Religion, Assembly, Press, Petition, Speech
Each branch of government can limit the power of the other branches.
Checks & Balances
The government is broke into 3 branches, legislative, executive, & judicial
Separation of Powers
Served as a model for the Bill of Rights
Virginia Declaration of Rights
This plan wanted to represent states based on their population
Virginia Plan
This amendment grants citizens the right to "Due Process"
5th
The government is required to follow a set of procedures
Due Process
Divides power between the national and the state governments.
Set a precedence in court
English Common Law
This was the result of combining the New Jersey and Virginia plans, resulting in a bicameral legislature (2 house)
The Great Compromise
This amendment grants citizens the right to a fair, public, and speedy trial.
6th
The Constitution is the supreme law of the land.
Supremacy Clause
People elect representatives to make decisions for them in the government
Republicanism
Granted colonists the same rights as Englishmen
Charters of the Virginia Company of London
These people wanted a strong central government when creating the U.S. Constitution.
Federalist
This amendment prevents unreasonable search and seizure
4th
All people are treated equally under the law.
Equal Justice