American system of government

What system of government was used before the present consitution?

The Articles of confederation, which created a weak central government and gave most powers to the states.

Representative democracy

A system of government in which citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf, ensuring that the government reflects the will of the people.

Federalism

Individual states share power with a central government

Delegated powers

Powers specifically granted to the federal government by the Constitution, such as foreign affairs.

Reserved powers

The powers not delegated to the federal goverment, reserved for the states.

How are the federal powers divided in the government?

They are divided between an executive (The president), a legislative (Congress) and a judicial (The Supreme court) branch of government.

Congress - Powers

Powers: Pass laws, impose and collect federal taxes , declare war.

Two chambers of the American congress

The house of representatives and the senate

The president - powers

Represents the people of the united states, appoints the heads of the governments departments, dealing with foreign governments and defense policy.

The

The supreme court - powers

Can decide which laws taken by the president allign with the constitution.