7 Basic Principles of the Constitution

Powers of government are restricted by the constitution.

• Limited Government
• Republicanism
• Checks and balances
• Federalism

Voters hold the sovereign power to elect representatives to exercise power for them.

• Popular Sovereignty
• Federailsm
• Republicanism
• Limited Governemtn

Each of the three branches of government exercises some control over the other, sharing power among them.

• Separation of Powers
• Checks and Balances
• Republicanism
• Federalism

Power is divided between the national and state governments, limiting central power.

• Federalism
• Republicanism
• Limited Government
• Individual Rights

Each branch of government has its own responsibilities and limitations.

• Federalism
• Republicanism
• Separation of Powers
• Limited Government

Authority for government flows from the people and they rule through their representatives. The people get to decide.

• Federalism
• Republicanism
• Popular Soverignty
• Limited Government

Unalienable rights guaranteed to all citizens.

• Individual Rights
• Popular Sovereignty 
• Separation of Powers
• Republicanism