The Roots of American Democracy and the 6 Principles of Democracy

Magna Carta

(1215) the first written document to put a limit on a kings authority. King John of England was forced to sign; it made the king obey the same laws as the citizens of his kingdom

English Petition of Rights

(1628) Limited the power of Charles I of England.

a) could not declare martial law

b) could not collect taxes

c) could not imprison people without cause

d) soldiers could not be housed without consent

English Bill of Rights

(1689) updated version of the Petition of Rights, this document gave England a government based on a system of laws and a freely elected parliament, no longer an absolute monarchy

Secured personal rights and freedoms for citizens that could not be restricted by the government

Writings of John Locke

Stated that governments that do not uphold the natural right to life, liberty, and property should be overthrown to establish a new one, based on individual rights and freedoms

Limited Government

a government whose powers are defined and limited by a Constitution; not absolute

Rule of Law

principle that the law applies to everyone, even those who govern

Popular Sovereignty

A belief that ultimate power resides in the people.

Rights & Freedoms

specific rights of the citizens and protections from the government if accused of a crime

Majority Rule, Minority Rights

the democratic principle that a government follows the preferences of the majority of voters but protects the interests of the minority

Equality Under Law

the idea that the law is supposed to be applied impartially, without regard for the identity or status of the individual involved

Federalism

A system in which power is divided between the national and state governments

Separation of Powers

the division of power among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of government

Checks and Balances

A system that allows each branch of government to limit the powers of the other branches in order to prevent abuse of power