1. The Constitution The Supreme Law of the Land
Chapter 3 Section 1

2. Three Parts of the Constitution
The Preamble (Introduction)
The Seven Articles (Body of document)
27 Amendments (1st Ten called the Bill of Rights)

3. Major Principles Popular Sovereignty Limited Government
Separation of Powers
Checks and Balances
Judicial Review
Federalism

4. Popular Sovereignty Rule by the people & for the people
Government by the consent of the governed

5. Limited Government Government is NOT all powerful
Limits the power of the government
People hold all power and give some to the government

6. Separation of Powers Prevents any branch from gaining too much power
Each Branch has its own responsibilities
Article I: Legislative Branch – makes the laws
Article II: Executive Branch – enforces the laws
Article III: Judicial Branch – interprets the laws

7. Checks & Balances
Each branch can exercise some control on the other branches
The Branches “Check” each other to make sure there is no abuse of power

8. Judicial Review
Courts can declare laws and actions of government UNCONSTITUTIONAL
Started with Marbury vs. Madison

9. Federalism
Powers of government is divided between national, state, and local governments
Each level of government has its own powers
Federal
State
Local