American history vocab

Individualism

People’s economic and political activity is not controlled by the government; free to pursue their own goals.

Unalienable

Cannot be changed nor taken from an individual; natural rights.

E Pluribus Unum

Latin for 'Out of many, one'; motto reflecting that several states joined together to make one nation.

Populism (Popular Sovereignty)

The principle that common people hold the power to govern their country.

Liberty

Freedom from tyranny; having political rights.

Constitutionalism

A representative government where power derives from the consent of the governed and leaders are elected.

Suffrage

The right to vote in an election.

Values

Strongly held ideas or beliefs important to a person or group.

U.S. Constitution

A document establishing a system of laws and stating people’s rights and duties.

In God We Trust

Official motto of the U.S. adopted in 1956; printed on all American money.

Principles

Ideas that form the basis of something; guiding theories or beliefs.

Declaration of Independence

A document stating the purpose of government and announcing independence from Great Britain.

Egalitarian

The belief that all people are equal and should have the same rights and opportunities.

Motto

A short sentence or phrase expressing a rule or guiding principle.

Bill of Rights

A written statement listing the basic rights of citizens; the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

Laissez-Faire

Limited government interference in a country’s economic policy; a 'hands-off' approach to the economy.

Tyranny

Cruel and unfair treatment by people with power over others.