1. Social Studies OGT Review US Constitution and Government

2. Constitution The Constitution is known as the Supreme Law of the Land The only way to change the Constitution is through the amendment process Article I – Legislative Branch: makes the laws Article II – Executive Branch: carries out the laws Article III – Judicial Branch: interprets the laws

3. US Government The 3 branches of government operate on a system of separation of powers and checks and balances Separate state and local governments makes decisions concerning their own area and people (federalism) Government can only limit your rights if – Clear and present danger (Schenck v. US) – Public safety – National security

4. Amendments 1- freedom of press, religion, assembly, petition, and speech 13 – abolish slavery 14 – citizenship to everyone born in the US 15 – right to vote to all adult males 16 – government can collect income tax 17 – direct election of senators (progressive reform) 19 – women’s suffrage (voting) 24 – outlaws literacy test and poll taxes 26 – lowered voting age to 18