Nature and Significance

What is the historical context of the constitution?

• Revolutionary background

• Constitutional Convention of 1787

• Influence of enlightenment ideas

How did the revolutionary background have an impact?

Shaped by the American Revolutionary War (1775-1783) which sought independence and a desire for self-governance.

How did the Constitutional Convention of 1787 have a impact?

Convened to design a more effective framework of government.

What influence did enlightenment ideas have?

Emphasised individual rights, principles of limited government and protection of natural rights.

What are the features of the US constitution?

• Codified

• Entrenched

• Federal unitary

What does codified, entrenched and federal unitary mean?

Codified: Structured written document

Entrenched: Rigorous amendment process to ensure stability

Federal unitary: allocation of powers and responsibilities between central and state government

What are the principles of the US constitution?

• Separation of powers

• Checks and balances

• Limited government

• Rule of law

• Federalism

What is the separation of powers?

Three branches of government prevents the concentration of power and ensures a sate of checks and balances.

What are checks and balances?

Mutual restraint and oversight, preventing any single branch from becoming too powerful.

What is limited government?

where the powers of government are constrained by the rule of law.

What is the rule of law?

All individuals are subject to and must adhere to the kale ensuring the protection of individual rights.

What is federalism?

Division of powers and responsibilities between central and state governments.