1. Seven Principles of the Constitution
Texas History

2. Republicanism Not the same as the Republican Party
Political value system that has dominated political thought since the American Revolution.
Liberty and rights are its central values
Makes the people sovereign
People exercise power by voting
Expects citizens to be independent
Expects citizens to perform civic duties

3. Limited Government The rule of law: Constitutionalism
No one is above the law
Constitutionalism
The constitution is the law of the land

4. Checks and Balances Separation of Powers Executive Branch
Legislative Branch
Judicial Branch
Checks and Balances

5. Checks and Balances
Congress makes the laws but the Presidents may veto laws made by Congress
Presidents may veto laws but Congress may over-ride a veto be 2/3s majority in both Houses
The Court may find a law passed by the Congress and signed by the President UNCONSTITUTIONAL

6. Federalism
The sharing of power between the Federal Government and the states
The Federal Government is the supreme
The overlapping spheres of power bind the American people together Concurrent powers
Delegated powers
Reserved powers
Concurrent powers
Delegated powers
Reserved powers

7. Division of Governmental Powers Treaties
Federal Only
Concurrent/Shared
States Only
Declare war
Tax
Issue licenses
Make peace
Borrow money
Provide local government
Army, Navy
Establish courts
Provide local schools
Regulate trade
Arrest people
Issue money
Treaties

8. Popular Sovereignty Power rests with the people
People create government
Government of the people, by the people, and for the people

9. Individual Rights Bill of Rights
Shield people from an overly powerful government
Are the first ten constitutional amendments.
They guarantee personal liberties and privileges.