Fundamental Principles of Government

Front

The liberties of individuals without interference from others or the government

Back

Individual Rights

Front

The government is not all-powerful and can only do things the people have given it the power to do

Back

Limited Government

Front

There are three distinct and independent branches of government and many actions require the cooperation of 2 or 3 branches

Back

Separation of Powers

Front

Each branch is restrained by the other two branches and can stop an action from happening

Back

Checks & Balances

Front

The division of power among a central (federal) and several regional governments (states)

Back

Federalism

Front

Every person, even the leaders of government, must follow the law

Back

Rule of Law

Front

All political power ultimately is held by the people

Back

Popular Sovereignty

Front

The people elect representatives at regular intervals to make decisions on their behalf

Back

Republicanism

Front

Diagram illustrating concepts of government structure

Back

Visual representation of Individual Rights, Limited Government, Separation of Powers, and Checks & Balances