What are the first three words of the U.S. Constitution?
"We the People"
What fundamental idea is expressed by the words "We the People"?
This phrase establishes the principle of popular sovereignty, meaning the power and authority of the government come from the American people, not a king or an existing state.
What is the idea of self-government?
It is the principle that the people are the ultimate source of governing authority and have the right to govern themselves, often through elected representatives.
Where in the Constitution is the idea of self-government first stated?
In the Preamble, with the first three words: "We the People."
Define "popular sovereignty."
It is the political doctrine that the people living in a region should determine for themselves the nature of their government. In the U.S., it means the people are the source of all governmental power.
Who is the ultimate source of power for the federal government in the United States?
The people.
What form of government does the Constitution establish to carry out the will of "the People"?
A republic, which is also known as a representative democracy.
How was the concept of "We the People" a departure from previous forms of government?
It was a radical shift from systems where power was concentrated in a monarch, an aristocracy, or a ruling class. It declared that ordinary citizens were the ultimate authority.
What is the main purpose of the Preamble to the Constitution?
It serves as an introduction that states the goals and purposes of the government being created by the Constitution, such as forming a more perfect union and securing the blessings of liberty.
What does the Constitution do?
It sets up the government, defines the government's powers and structure, and protects the basic rights of Americans.
