Governing California

Key Idea

In the United States, the job of governing is too big for just one group. This system of sharing power is called federalism. It creates three levels of government: national, state, and local. Each level has its own special jobs to do for the people it serves.

The national government handles big jobs for the whole country, like managing highways that cross from one state to another. State governments, like California's, manage state parks and schools. Your local city or county government handles things close to home, like fixing potholes and running libraries.

Key Idea

To keep the government fair, its power is divided into three parts. This important idea is called the separation of powers. It makes sure that no single person or group has too much control.

Each part, or branch, has a special job. The legislative branch makes the laws. The executive branch carries out the laws. The judicial branch, which includes courts and judges, interprets the laws and acts like a referee.

Key Idea

To prepare for statehood, California needed a set of rules. Leaders met in Monterey and wrote the first constitution in 1849. Although the constitution was ready, California did not officially become a state until 1850, after the U.S. Congress approved it.

Over time, some large companies and dishonest leaders became too powerful. This political corruption meant the government wasn't always working for the people.

Key Idea

A group of leaders called Progressives wanted to fix this. Their leader, Hiram Johnson, was elected governor in 1910. He promised to kick the powerful companies out of politics and give power back to the citizens.

The Progressives created new ways for people to vote on laws directly. This gave everyday Californians more control over their government and helped make it fairer for everyone.The Progressives also fought for more people to have a voice. In 1911, a new law was passed that gave women in California the right to vote.