Foundations of American Government

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Republicanism

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A system where people elect leaders to make decisions and laws for them.

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Federalism

Back

A way of sharing power between the national government and the states.

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Checks and Balances

Back

A system where each branch of government can stop the others from becoming too powerful.

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Separation of Powers

Back

Dividing government into three branches: legislative (makes laws), executive (carries out laws), and judicial (interprets laws).

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Popular Sovereignty

Back

The idea that the people have the power and give government its authority.

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Magna Carta

Back

A document from 1215 in England that limited the king's power and helped start the idea of rule of law.

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English Common Law

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Laws based on court decisions and customs rather than written codes, used in colonial America.

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Charters of the Virginia Company of London

Back

Documents from the King of England that gave permission to start the colony of Virginia and guaranteed rights to the colonists.

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Virginia Declaration of Rights

Back

A document that listed the rights of Virginians; it helped inspire the U.S. Bill of Rights.

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Declaration of Independence

Back

A document written in 1776 that said the American colonies were free from British rule.