United States History Student Edition

07 Principles of the Constitution

Our Constitution GUIDING QUESTION What basic principles of government are set forth by the Constitution?

READING STRATEGY Analyzing Key Ideas and Details As you read, use a diagram like the one shown to identify the seven major principles on which the Constitution is based.

When the Framers gathered in Philadelphia in 1787 at the Constitutional Convention, they faced the challenge of planning a new government. The U.S. Constitution is their solution to this challenge. The document they created is based on seven key principles: (1) popular sovereignty, (2) a republican form of government, (3) limited government, (4) federalism, (5) separation of powers, (6) checks and balances, and (7) individual rights. Popular Sovereignty The Constitution begins with an introduction, or preamble. With its first words—“We the People”—the preamble lays the foundation of the American system of government: popular sovereignty (PAH•pyuh•luhr SAHV•rihn•tee), or the authority of the people. The preamble makes clear that it is the people of the United States who hold the power and who establish a system of government for their own well-being.

Seven Major Principles 1.

2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

popular sovereignty the belief that government is subject to the will of the people

FLORIDA BENCHMARKS

• SS.8.A.1.1 • SS.8.A.1.2 • SS.8.A.1.4

• SS.8.A.3.10 • SS.8.CG.1.3 • SS.8.CG.2.1 • SS.8.CG.2.5 • SS.8.CG.2.6 • ELA.K12.EE.4.1

In a democratic republic, voters select leaders to represent them in government. At the national level, citizens vote for members of the House of Representatives to serve two-year terms, members of the Senate to serve six-year terms, and the president to serve a four-year term.

©Hill Street Studios/Blend Images LLC/Glow Images

201

GO ONLINE

Explore the Student Edition eBook and find interactive maps, time lines, and tools.