Chapter 3.1 The Constitution

Outline of the Constitution 1. brief document that sets out the framework and procedures of our government 2. sets limits within each branch of government. 3. Preamble-intro 4. Seven articles-sections 5. Amendemnts-27

6 Basic Principles 1. Popular Sovereignty 2. Limited Government 3. Separation of Powers 4. Checks and Balances 5.Judicial Review 6. Federalism

Popular Sovereignty Power resides with the people

Limited Government Government is not all powerful. Government only has power it is given. Government must obey the law. Constitutionalism: the government must be conducted according to constitutional principles.

Separation of Powers In presidential form of government there is a separation of power between the 3 branches. 3 separate distinct branches; all coequal

Checks and Balances Each branch being coequal are co- independent. Each branch subject to a number of constitutional checks (restraints) by the other branches. Chart pg. 68 with examples

Judicial Review Power of a court to determine the constitutionality of a governmental action Can declare an act of government unconstitutional- null and void. Established by Marbury v. Madison (1803)

Federalism The division of power between a central government and several regional governments. US National government and the 50 State governments Compromise between a strong central government and a weak confederation.