CONSTITUTION NOTES
(Preamble, Principles, & Articles)
The Constitution is the fundamental law of the United States. It provides an
outline for the organization and for the operation of the National Government.
The Constitution consists of a short Preamble and seven Articles or major parts.
The Preamble states the general goals of the governmental system formed by the Constitution.
PREAMBLE
WE THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED STATES, IN ORDER TO FORM A
MORE PERFECT UNION, ESTABLISH JUSTICE, INSURE DOMESTIC
TRANQUILITY, PROVIDE FOR THE COMMON DEFENSE, PROMOTE
THE GENERAL WELFARE, AND SECURE THE BLESSINGS OF LIBERTY
TO OURSELVES AND OUR POSTERITY, DO ORDAIN AND ESTABLISH
THIS CONSTITUTION FOR THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
PRINCIPLES OF GOVERNMENT
1. Popular Sovereignty – People hold the power and use their power by voting.
2. Limited Power of Government – The idea that the government is not all powerful and that they must obey the law. Keeps the government from becoming too powerful.
3. Federalism – Division of powers between the National and State Government.
A. Enumerated Powers – Powers held only by the National Government
B. Reserved Powers – Powers held only by the State Government
C. Concurrent Powers – Powers held by both the National & State Governments.
4. Separation of Powers – Each branch has their own responsibilities and powers.
5. Checks and Balances – The idea that each branch can check the other branches to keep them in check and from becoming too powerful.
6. Republicanism – People elect representatives to govern for them.
7. Individual Liberties – All Americans are guaranteed basic rights & freedoms.
ARTICLES OF THE CONSTITUTION
ARTICLE I – Describes the Legislative (Congress).
ARTICLE II – Describes the Executive Branch (President).
ARTICLE III – Describes the Judicial (Supreme Court & Courts)
ARTICLE IV – Describes relations among the states.
ARTICLE V – Describes the process for amending the Constitution.
ARTICLE VI – Lists general provisions, Supremacy Clause, and President’s oath of office.
ARTICLE VII – Describes the ratification process of the Constitution.