SOCIAL STUDIES HIGH SCHOOL – CIVICS Origination of Idea of American Government American Idea of Constitutional Government Unit 3--The American Political Heritage and the Constitution Vocabulary Heritage Compact Legislature Revolution Alliance Tyranny Direct democracy Militia Republic Martial law Natural rights Diplomacy Separation of powers Constitution Independence Treaty Taxation Confederation Checks and balances Concurrent Ratification Reserved Bicameral Unicameral Delegated Supremacy compromise Popular sovereignty Federalism Early American Government Delegates to the Constitutional Convention Contributions of Events and People in Connecticut Essential Learning Concepts The roots of American government were born out of ancient civilizations and British political traditions A clash of beliefs between the British and colonial government led to conflict American independence led to the creation of the Articles of Confederation The inherent weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation demonstrated the need for a strong national government At the Constitutional Convention, delegates debated plans and principles of government that resulted in compromise The Constitution is comprised of the Preamble, Articles, and Amendments The United States Constitution is based on the following principles: judicial review, popular sovereignty, federalism, limited government, separation of powers, and checks and balances