Structure and Principles US Constitution Structure and Principles

Creating a new Constitution Structure: Preamble: introduction states WHY the constitution was written Provide stability and order, protect citizen’s liberties and serve the people Articles: 7 divisions over a general topic about the structure of the new government Amendments: changes to the constitution 27 amendments currently

Major Principles of the Constitution Popular Sovereignty: rule by the people US Government is based on the consent of the people; authority flows from the people

Major Principles of the Constitution Federalism: power is divided between national and state governments Limit central power and distribute authority Federal government has power to act for the nation and states have control over local matters

Major Principles of the Constitution Separation of Powers: divides powers amongst legislative, executive and judicial branches Each branch has responsibilities No one gets too much power

Major Principles of the Constitution Checks and Balances: each branch of government has some control over others

Major Principles of the Constitution Rule of Law: even the government must adhere to the law

Major Principles of the Constitution Limited Government: limits the actions of government by specifically listing powers it does and does not have Protects against abuse of power

Ticket out the Door Explain what this quote means: The United States government is a “government of laws, not of men.” – John Adams