American Government and Its’ Citizens

Government Role: Ensure the rights and freedom of citizens Enforcing laws to ensure domestic safety Protecting citizens and borders from enemies Types: Monarchy – Ruled by a King/Queen with very limited powers. (Ex. England) Dictatorship – Ruled by one person with ABSOLUTE power, often taken by violent means. (Ex. Cuba)

Government (cont.) Theocracy – Ruled by a religious leader, claiming the power to rule comes from God. (Ex. Iran) Democracy – Voters vote directly for leaders (Ex. Switzerland) Representative Democracy – Voters vote for leaders who then make decisions on their behalf. (Ex. USA)

Governing Documents The Declaration of Independence In 1775, angered over taxes and poor treatment by British Parliament, American Colonists went to war with Great Britain. Delegates from the 13 colonies met in Philadelphia to draw up a declaration of freedom from GB. Thomas Jefferson’s masterpiece, the Declaration of Independence, was approved by the “Continental Congress” on July 4th, 1776. The Declaration lists the reasons for breaking away from GB and became a statement of American Ideals.

The Constitution Signed in 1787 by all states except NC and RI, George Washington was elected 1st President. The Constitution was the new plan for government, and created 3 separate branches. It also provided a “Bill of Rights” to protect individual freedoms.

Strengths of the Constitution Most Power held by the Federal Government Three separate but equal branches (Judicial, Executive, Legislative) System of Checks and Balances so no one branch can become too powerful Allows for Amending and changing (Amendments) Powers are granted to the states (reserved powers) Bill of Rights added to protect the freedoms of American citizens (#1-10)

Immigration and Citizenship America has always been the “land of opportunity”, attracting thousands of immigrants every year. 1920 – First quota on Immigration through Ellis Island. 1990 – Immigration Act sets immigration quota at 675,000. The IA gives preference to: Husbands, wives, and children of US citizens People who have valuable job skills Aliens (LEGAL permanent residents who are citizens of another country  VISA = Green Cards

American Citizenship A person is considered an American Citizen when: Born to at least one American parent Born on a military base or American Political sanctuary around the world Born anywhere in United States territory, regardless of parental citizenship. Naturalization process: (after 5 years of residence) Apply for permanent residency visa Apply for citizenship Get fingerprinted Pass interview and take citizenship tests (civics, US History, and English) Take oath of Allegiance to the United States

Illegal Immigrants: Ongoing Problem for the US Worst: Southwestern border with Mexico, Inter-connected with the drug trade Borders are increasingly harder to protect, major issue in 2012 election.

Illegal Immigration in the US Why might the largest group of people come from Mexico?