Government Vocabulary Worksheet

Front

Principle that government authority is created and sustained by the consent of its people; 'rule by the people.'

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Popular Sovereignty

Front

What is the term for the principle that a government's power is restricted by law, usually in a written constitution?

Back

Limited Government

Front

What is the term for a system where power is divided between a central national government and various state governments?

Back

Federalism

Front

What is the term for dividing government responsibilities into distinct branches (legislative, executive, judicial) to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful?

Back

Separation of Powers

Front

What is the term for a system that allows each branch of government to amend or veto acts of another branch to maintain a balance of power?

Back

Checks and Balances

Front

Basic rights and freedoms to which all humans are entitled, often guaranteed by a constitution.

Back

Individual Rights

Front

What is the term for the supreme law of the land; a document that establishes the framework and powers of a government?

Back

Constitution

Front

What is the term for the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, which protect fundamental rights and liberties?

Back

Bill of Rights

Front

What is the term for a formal change or addition made to a law or a constitution?

Back

Amendment

Front

What is the term for the part of the government that creates laws (e.g., Congress in the U.S.)?

Back

Legislative Branch