US Constitution Principles

• The Senate approves Supreme Court Justice appointments made by the executive branch.
• The Preamble outlines the goals of the government and starts with "We the People."
• Montesquieu's concept of dividing government inspired the separation of powers principle in the U.S. Constitution.
• The Eighth Amendment prohibits excessive bail, fines, and cruel and unusual punishments.
• The judicial branch checks the legislative branch by ensuring laws align with the Constitution.
• The Magna Carta, signed in 1215, limited the English monarchy's power and introduced due process.
• Marbury v. Madison (1803) established the Supreme Court's power of judicial review.
• The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures without a warrant.
• Federalism divides power between national and state governments.
• The Articles of Confederation, adopted in 1777, was the first attempt at a national government but was replaced due to its weaknesses.
• The Constitution was ratified after promising to add the Bill of Rights to protect individual rights.
• The Great Compromise created a bicameral legislature, balancing representation for large and small states.
• The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not given to the federal government to the states or the people.
• The legislative branch can override a presidential veto.
• The Enlightenment, emphasizing reason, individual rights, and self-government, influenced the Founding Fathers.
• Impeachment and conviction is a constitutional mechanism allowing Congress to remove a sitting president, requiring a majority vote in the House and a 2/3 vote in the Senate.

Explore the basic principles of the US Constitution, including checks and balances, federalism, and individual rights. Learn about key historical documents, landmark court cases, and the structure of the government. Understand the foundations of American democracy.