Civics: Influential Documents

Front

What is the principle of the federal government that allows each branch to limit the power of the other branches?

Back

Checks and Balances

Front

Which pamphlet published in 1776 aimed to convince American colonists to support becoming independent from England?

Back

Common Sense

Front

Which government document expanded the powers of the English Parliament and expanded the rights of the people, as well as further limited the rights of the king?

Back

Bill of Rights

Front

What is the principle that the government has to provide a cause or reason for holding a person in jail?

Back

Habeas Corpus

Front

Which government document limited the power of the king of England and protected the rights of the nobility?

Back

Magna Carta

Front

What agreement between individuals created a government that would provide order and protect the rights of the colonists?

Back

Mayflower Compact

Front

What is the term for a popular or representative system where the people create and run their own government?

Back

Self-Government

Front

Which government document listed a variety of reasons why American colonists would be better off separated from British rule?

Back

Common Sense

Front

What was the agreement British rulers signed after the noble citizens demanded the monarchy give some of its rights to 'the people'?

Back

Mayflower Compact

Front

What is common law?

Back

law based on customs and prior legal decisions; used in civil cases