The U.S Constitution is a document that provides the basic framework or structure for American government. It is the supreme law of the land. The constitution is a relatively short document that is based on 6 guiding themes. Which are: Popular Sovereignty, Rule of Law, Separation, Federalism of Powers & Checks & Balances, An Independent Judiciary and Individual Rights.
Popular Sovereignty
This principle is the heart of democracy. It means that power should not reside with the government or its leaders, but with the people.
Rule of Law
Means the American people and their government follow a system of laws. When there is a conflict between federal law (all of the U.S) vs. state law, federal law always wins.
Separation of Powers, Checks and Balances
This principle is based of Montesquieu ideas and divided powers in the national government into three branches. 1. Executive: the president 2. Legislative: congress and house of reps 3. Judicial: the Supreme Court.
Checks and Balances Court
Each branch has different powers and ways to keep each other in check. Executive can veto or shut down laws. Legislative can override vetoes and impeach the president. Judicial can determine if laws or treaties are unconstitutional (illegal).
Federalism
This principle divides power between the central government and state government. It creates three types of powers; 1. Delegated Powers (national gov.) 2. Reserved Powers (state gov.) 3. Concurrent Powers (both state and national).
Independent Judiciary
This principle means that the supreme court is the ultimate authority on what is legal or illegal in the U.S.
Individual Rights
Means that our individual rights are protected by the 10 Amendments, freedom of speech, religion, press and etc.
