US Constitution and Bill of Rights

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Preamble to the Constitution

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An introduction that explains what the constitution is meant to do.

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Constitution

Back

A document that gives the rules for how a government should run.

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Amendments

Back

Changes made to the constitution after the constitution became law.

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Bill of Rights

Back

The first ten amendments to the constitution.

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Congress

Back

The House of Representatives and Senate (bicameral), tasked with creating laws.

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Bicameral

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Having two branches or chambers.

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Checks and Balances

Back

A system that allows each branch of a government to amend, override, or veto acts of another branch to prevent any one branch from exerting too much power.

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Separation of Powers

Back

A system of government that divides its authority into separate branches, each with its own responsibilities and powers.

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Representative Democracy

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A form of government in which elected officials represent, lead, and act on behalf of the citizens.

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Executive Branch

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Consists of the President, his or her advisors, and various departments and agencies, responsible for enforcing the laws.