Lesson 3: Principles of the Constitution

To prevent tyranny, the framers created a system of Separation of Powers, dividing the government into three distinct branches. The Legislative branch makes laws, the Executive branch enforces laws, and the Judicial branch interprets laws. No single person or group holds all the power.

To ensure no branch becomes too dominant, the Constitution includes a system of Checks and Balances. For example, the President can veto laws passed by Congress. Congress can impeach and remove a President for misconduct. The Supreme Court has the power of Judicial Review, allowing it to declare laws unconstitutional.

The Constitution created a system of Federalism, which divides power between the national government and the states. This structure ensures a balance between national unity and local control.

Powers are divided into three types:

• Enumerated Powers: Specific powers given only to the federal government, such as declaring war and printing money.

The framers knew the nation would change, so they designed the Constitution to be adaptable. They included an Amendment Process, allowing the Constitution to be changed or added to over time. This makes it a "living document."

However, they made this process difficult to ensure stability. An amendment requires overwhelming support—two-thirds of Congress and three-fourths of the states—to pass. This ensures that changes reflect a broad consensus, not just the whim of the moment.