Unit 1 Foundations of American Democracy Vocabulary

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natural rights

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A right that is inherent in nature

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Republic

Back

A type of government where representatives are elected by the people

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Direct democracy

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A system where citizens vote directly on laws.

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Indirect democracy

Back

A system where representatives elected by citizens make decisions.

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Rule of Law

Back

Principle that all people and institutions are subject to and accountable to law

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Limited Government

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A government with restricted power

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Separation of Powers

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The powers are divided among the three branches of government

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Social Contract

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A theory in political philosophy that states people give up rights to the government to maintain order.

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Checks and balances

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A system in which each branch of government has its own powers but are limited by the powers of the other branches

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popular sovereignty

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A principle that allows the people hold the power in a government