Understanding Popular Sovereignty

Popular sovereignty is the principle that political power originates from the people, not a monarch or elected officials. In the U.S., this concept forms the basis of government, where citizens lend power to elected representatives to create and enforce laws.

What does the term 'popular sovereignty' imply about the source of political power?

• It originates from a king.

• It is granted by the constitution.

• It is derived from the people.

• It comes from elected officials.

In the context of popular sovereignty, what does 'sovereignty' mean?

• Wealth

• Power

• Freedom

• Territory

How is the principle of popular sovereignty reflected in the United States government?

• The government is controlled by a monarch.

• The people are the ultimate source of power.

• Laws are made by a central authority.

• Elected officials have absolute power.

What role do representatives play in a republic like the United States?

• They have no real power.

• They use the power lent by the people to make and enforce laws.

• They are appointed by the president.

• They inherit power from their ancestors.

In a republic, how do people participate in governance?

• By lending their power to elected representatives.

• By directly making laws.

• By voting on every law.

• By appointing judges.