government

Limited Government

Everyone in the government must follow the same rules - from average person to the President

Republicanism

Instead of taking part directly in government, citizens elect representatives to carry out their will

Checks and Balances

System by which each branch of government can check, or control, the actions of the other branches

Legislative Branch

Branch of government that passes laws (Congress)

House of Representatives (435) and Senate (2 per state)_

Executive Branch

Branch of government that carries out laws (President)

Judicial Branch

Branch of government that decides whether laws are carried out fairly (Federal Court, Supreme Court being highest)

Federalism

Division of power between the states and the national government (federal)

Separation of Powers

Principle by which the powers of government are Divided among separate branches

Popular Sovereignty

Idea that people hold the final authority in government, allowing each territory to decide whether to allow slavery

Individual Rights

Guarantees certain personal liberties and privileges to everyone

Amendment Process

The process by which citizens may change the Constitution; has to be approved by 3/4 of states or 3/4 of the Congress. Very hard to change amendments

First Amendment

5 freedoms: speech, press, religion, assembly, petition

Second Amendment

Right to bear arms

Third Amendment

No quartering of soldiers

4th Amendment

Freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures without a warrant

5th Amendment

Criminal Proceedings; Due Process; Eminent Domain; Double Jeopardy; Protection from Self incrimination

6th Amendment

The right to a Speedy Trial by jury, representation by an attorney for an accused person

7th Amendment

Right to a trial by jury in civil cases

8th Amendment

No cruel or unusual punishment, no excessive bail

9th Amendment

Citizens entitled to rights not listed in the Constitution

10 Amendments

Powers Reserved to the States

civic virtue

Willingness on the part of citizens to sacrifice personal self-interest for the public good. Deemed a necessary component of a successful republic.