Most of the ideas and traditions that influenced the American government came from the colonist's British heritage.

Definition: The people are the source of any and all governmental power.

Definition: Government is not all-powerful and may do only those things the people have given it the power to do.

Definition: The government and those who govern are bound by the law, as are those who are governed.

Definition: System of government in which power rests with the people.

Definition: In a representative system of government, the people elect public officeholders to make laws and conduct government on the people’s behalf.

Definition: The authority is divided between a central government and its political units (states).

Which principle best matches the quote? Use the clues.

“The powers delegated by the proposed Constitution to the federal government are few and defined. Those which are to remain in the State governments are numerous and indefinite.” James Madison, The Federalist 45

Which principle best matches the quote? Use the clues.

“WE THE PEOPLE of the United States...do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.” Preamble to the Constitution, 1787

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“This Constitution and the laws of the United States ... shall be the supreme law of the land.” All government officials “shall be bound by an oath to support this constitution.” U.S. Constitution, Article VI

Which principle best matches the quote? Use the clues.

“The House of Representatives, like that of one branch at least of all the State legislatures, is elected immediately by the great body of the people." James Madison, The Federalist 39

This document established the idea of self-government (that government is created by the people for the people).

This document limited the power of the King of England.

This document ensured colonists of their rights as Englishmen.

These two documents guaranteed the rights of citizens in VA.

This document limited the powers of the U.S.central government and protected states rights.

This document written by Thomas Paine supported the cause of independence.

This document affirms the equality of all citizens (all men are created equal).

This document creates the government of the United States and includes all political principles learned this unit.

The U.S. Constitution revolutionized the world because of the political principles behind it.

Despite the accomplishments of the U.S. Constitution, not many countries followed its model of government.