Principles of the Constitution

A system in which each branch of government (the legislative, executive, and judicial branches) has the ability to limit the power of the other branches to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.

• checks and balances
• separation of powers
• division of authority
• balance of control

A system of government in which power is divided and shared between a central (national) government and individual state governments, allowing each to have some control.

• anarchy
• autocracy
• federalism
• oligarchy

The idea that the authority and legitimacy of the government come from the will and consent of the people through elections and democratic processes.

• Monarchy
• Popular sovereignty
• Dictatorship
• Anarchy

A political philosophy that advocates for a system of government in which the people elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf rather than a direct democracy.

• delegative democracy
• representative democracy
• republicanism

• indirect democracy

The division of government responsibilities into distinct branches (legislative, executive, and judicial) to prevent any one branch from having too much power.

• Centralization of power
• Concentration of power
• Separation of powers
• Checks and balances

A legal right guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, ensuring that individuals accused of a crime have the right to a prompt and timely trial.

• Right to a public trial
• Right to a speedy trial
• Right to a fair trial

A government in which its powers and actions are restricted and defined by a constitution, ensuring it does not exceed its authority and infringe on individual rights.

• constitutional government
• totalitarian government
• authoritarian government
• limited government

The act of a government authority taking possession of property or assets, often in the context of law enforcement conducting searches and confiscating evidence.

• seizure

• confiscation of assets
• government possession

Refers to powers and responsibilities that are specifically assigned or granted to the federal government by the Constitution.

• Implied powers
• Delegated powers

• Reserved powers
• Concurrent powers

The responsibility and obligation of citizens to actively participate in the democratic processes of their country, such as voting, serving on juries, and staying informed about government affairs.

• Public obligation
• Civic responsibility
• Government duty
• Civic duty