7 Principles of the Constitution

How to remember the 7 principles:“People like rootbeer floats,

Skittles, and chocolate ice cream.”People=Popular SovereigntyLike=Limited GovernmentRootbeer=RepublicanismFloats=FederalismSkittles=Separation of PowersChocolate=Checks and BalancesIce Cream=Individual Rights

Principle: Popular Sovereignty

Explanation Example

The people are the final authority in government. The government receives its authority from the PEOPLE.

“We the People” from the preamble.

Principle: Limited Government

Explanation Example

The government is NOT all-powerful. It is limited to the power given to it by the Constitution.

The government must obey the same laws as all Americans.

Principle: Republicanism

Explanation Example

The people rule through elected representatives.

U.S. citizens elect Congress & the President.

Principle: Federalism

Explanation Example

The sharing of power between the state and federal (national) governments.

Federal power- defenseState power- education and marriage laws

Principle: Separation of Powers

Explanation Example

The power of the national government is separated into 3 equal branches

Legislative: Makes lawsExecutive: Enforces lawsJudicial: Judges laws

Principle: Checks and Balances

Explanation Example

Each branch of the national government has the ability to check, or control, the power of the other 2 branches.

The president can veto a bill. OR Senate approves Presidential appointments

Principle: Individual Rights

Explanation Example

Unalienable rights of the people that the government must protect.

Freedom of religion, assembly, press, petition, & speech are protected in the Bill of Rights.