1. INTRO to the CONSTITUTION

2. What is a constitution?
A constitution is a framework for a system of government
Our constitution established the US as a republic (a government where the citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf)
No other constitution in the world has lasted as long as ours
Over 220 years and counting!
Our constitution has also served as a model for dozens of others worldwide

3. Why has our Constitution lasted so long?
It is grounded in solid principles
We had previous democratic experience when we wrote it
The Founding Fathers took their time writing it and considered all the angles
It is specific, yet still flexible
The moral character of the American people has helped to preserve it

4. Key Principles in The Constitution

5. Written Law
Lawmakers can’t just change the laws when they feel like it. They must go through the processes detailed in the Constitution
This protects us from government abuse
It is important, however, that the citizens know their Constitution in order to hold their leaders accountable to following it!

6. Popular Sovereignty
The people are in charge of decision making (through their elected representatives)
Popular= From the population/people
Sovereignty= Control

7. Federalism Government in our country exists at multiple levels
Some powers are delegated to the Federal Government (like printing $ or declaring war), while others are reserved for the States (like deciding how old you have to be to get your learner’s permit)
Government in our country exists at multiple levels
Federal
State
Local (County or City)

8. Limited Government
The government only has the powers granted to it by the Constitution, and nothing more
This protects our freedoms

9. Separation of Powers

10. Checks & Balances
Each branch of government has power over the others-they keep each other in check.

11. Checks and Balances
Kind of like rock, papers, scissors.

12. Individual Rights
American colonists had always been concerned about any government that infringed upon their civil liberties
The Constitution is full of safeguards against government abuse in areas such as:
Religion
Speech
Criminal charges
Unfair punishments

13. The Preamble
We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.