US Constitution

Question 1

Codified

Answer 1

The US has a codified constitution, therefore it still operates under the structure that was created in the 18th century. The US constitution was developed by a constitutional convention and created the federal government. eg the constitution came into effect on March 4th 1789

Question 2

Federalism

Answer 2

Based on dual sovereignty. Federalism guarantees constitutional independence for the individual states and the areas they are responsible for. States in the US have powers laid out by the constitution which cannot be taken by the national federal government. The system is designed to give states as much independence as necessary.

Question 3

Checks and Balances

Answer 3

There are mechanisms built into the constitution to put a check on the power of the government institutions. The powers of each of the 3 main branches of government are balanced against one another, This ensures that one branch of government will become so powerful that it renders the other branches ineffective. eg Congress can impeach the President, if congress tires to pass a law, the President has the power to VETO it.

Question 4

Separation of Powers

Answer 4

The 3 branches of government have different constitutional powers that can’t be modified or interfered with by other branches. All have independence. Only the way that power of the 3 branches can be altered is through amendments to the US constitution. Ultimately, Federal judges have the power and authority under the constitution to declare presidential, state and federal law to be unconstitutional.

Question 5

Bill of Rights

Answer 5

The purpose of the Bill of Rights is to protect individual rights eg freedom of speech, freedom to bare arms