Principles of American Government

Front

Personal LIBERTIES/PROTECTIONS without interference from others or the government.

Back

Individual Rights

Front

The government is NOT all-powerful. Government can only do things the people have GIVEN IT THE POWER TO DO, which are listed in the Constitution.

Back

Limited Government

Front

Legislative, executive, and judicial powers are placed into three DISTINCT AND INDEPENDENT branches of government. Many actions require the COOPERATION of multiple branches, so no one branch can become all-powerful.

Back

Separation of Powers

Front

Each branch is subject to multiple constitutional restraints by the OTHER two branches. Each branch can (and often does) “CHECK” the others, stopping an action from happening.

Back

Checks and Balances

Front

The DIVISION of power among a central (federal) and several regional governments (states). Roughly can be considered a 50/50 SPLIT. Half of the decisions are made by states and half by the national government.

Back

Federalism

Front

Every person, even government leaders, is subject to WELL-DEFINED AND ESTABLISHED LAWS. NO ONE is exempt from following the laws.

Back

Rule of Law

Front

All political power resides in the PEOPLE. The government can govern only with the CONSENT of the people. Regular, open, and fair ELECTIONS.

Back

Populary Sovereignty

Front

Where people elect representatives at REGULAR INTERVALS. They conduct government business and make decisions ON THEIR BEHALF.

Back

Republicanism