U.S. Government Study Notes

Principles of American Government

  • Form of Government: Republic, Constitution-based federal republic, representative democracy.

  • Supreme Law of the Land: U.S. Constitution.

  • Purpose of Constitution: Forms government, defines powers, defines parts, protects rights.

  • "We the People": Represents self-government, popular sovereignty, consent of the governed.

  • Amendment Process: Changes made through amendments.

  • Bill of Rights: Protects basic rights of Americans.

  • Total Amendments: 27.

  • Declaration of Independence Importance: Marks freedom from Britain, asserts equality, identifies rights.

System of Government

  • Three Branches: Legislative, Executive, Judicial.

  • Legislative Branch: U.S. Congress (Senate and House).

  • Power of U.S. Congress: Writes laws, declares war, federal budget.

  • Senators: 100 total, 6-year terms, equal representation per state.

  • House of Representatives: 435 voting members, 2-year terms.

  • President's Term: 4 years, limited to two terms (22nd Amendment).

Rights and Responsibilities

  • Voting Amendments: Citizens 18+ can vote, no poll tax, any citizen can vote regardless of gender/race.

  • Rights of U.S. Residents: Freedom of expression, religion, assembly.

  • Oath of Allegiance: Promises loyalty, defense of Constitution.

  • Civic Participation Examples: Voting, running for office, community activity.

  • Importance of Taxes: Required by law to fund government operations.

American History

  • Colonial Reasons: Political liberty, religious freedom, economic opportunity.

  • Original Inhabitants: American Indians.

  • War for Independence: American Revolution.

  • Key Document: Declaration of Independence (July 4, 1776, by Jefferson).

  • Civil War: Core event between North and South over slavery and unity, ending with the Emancipation Proclamation.

  • Women's Rights Movement Leaders: Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton.

Recent American History

  • Key Conflicts: World Wars, Korean War, Vietnam War, Gulf War.

  • Civil Rights Movement: Fought racial discrimination, led by Martin Luther King, Jr.

  • 9/11 Events: Terrorist attacks on U.S. soil leading to military actions in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Symbols and Holidays

  • U.S. Capital: Washington, D.C.

  • Statue of Liberty Location: New York Harbor.

  • National Flag: 13 stripes for original colonies, 50 stars for states.

  • National Anthem: "The Star-Spangled Banner."

  • Independence Day: Celebrates American independence; signifies the country's birthday.

  • Memorial and Veterans Day: Honors fallen soldiers and military personnel, respectively.