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Government and Politics: Civics for the American Experiment

Explore the foundations and operation of representative government through constitutional principles and examine how a vibrant civil society and the practice of civic virtues serve to promote our common endeavor. This resource contains scholar-written essays, primary sources, videos, game-based learning, and more.

All components of this resource will be available by the end of April 2025!

11 Videos

Video

Founding Principles | Government & Politics: Civics for the American Experiment

4 Min

What are the founding principles that shape the United States? This video explores the foundational ideas that guide American democracy. Learn about the core principles of natural rights, limited government, and the importance of individual liberty and equality, as described in the Declaration of Independence Learn how these principles are translated into the framework of the Constitution, including the separation of powers and the protection of individual rights

Video

Founding Principles and Civic Virtues | Government & Politics: Civics for the American Experiment

5 Min

How do founding principles and civic virtues shape the United States? This video takes you on a journey through the foundation of the U.S. Constitution, where ideas like natural rights, limited government, and civic virtues form the bedrock of our society. Discover how these principles—rooted in equality, liberty, and justice—guide self-governance and empower citizens to protect individual freedoms. Learn about the separation of powers, federalism, and the vital role of civic virtues like integrity, respect, and courage in fostering a healthy civil society. From practicing prudence to upholding the common good, see how these ideals enable government accountability and ensure that "We the People" thrive.

Video

Civic Virtues | Government & Politics: Civics for the American Experiment

5 Min

What does it take to build a thriving community and sustain self-government? This video explores the essential role of civic virtues in fostering a healthy civil society. Discover how practicing integrity, humility, and respect strengthens our connections and helps navigate the challenges of modern life. Learn how historical figures like Clara Barton, Elizabeth Eckford, and George Washington exemplified these virtues through acts of courage and prudence — and how their monumental impacts began with small, everyday choices.

Video

Introduction to Federalism | Government & Politics: Civics for the American Experiment

3 Min

How does federalism shape the way our government works and impacts our daily lives? From differences in road signs to how schools are run, the structure of the U.S. Constitution ensures that power is shared between national, state, and local governments. But why does this system matter, and how does it address the challenges of governing a geographically large and diverse nation? In this video, explore the principle of federalism, its role in balancing powers, and real-world examples of cooperation and tension among different levels of government. Whether it’s defending the country, managing public health, or ensuring local communities thrive, federalism allows us to tackle big issues together while staying responsive to local needs. This video ties into the Bill of Rights Institute's Government and Politics: Civics for the American Experiment curriculum, specifically Unit 2, which dives into the dynamic dialogue between government levels and the constitutional principles that make it all work.

Video

Introduction to the Legislative Branch | Government & Politics: Civics for the American Experiment

5 Min

What makes the U.S. Congress the cornerstone of our democracy? Dive into the Constitution's Article I, where the framers designed the legislative branch to safeguard liberty while balancing power and passion. This video uncovers the structure of Congress as a bicameral legislature, composed of the House of Representatives and the Senate, each with distinct roles and responsibilities. From shaping laws to tackling debates that influence your education, freedoms, and daily life, Congress is where reason meets passion. Learn how its design fosters deliberation, curbs oppression, and drives liberty in action. This video ties into Unit 3 of the Bill of Rights Institute's Government and Politics: Civics for the American Experiment curriculum. Explore the role of the legislature, the constitutional responsibilities of the House and Senate, and the Supreme Court cases that define representation and redistricting.

Video

A Day In the Life with Emerald Garret | Government & Politics: Civics for the American Experiment

5 Min

How do government, politics, and civics work in everyday life? Join Emerald Garrett, a Senior Legislative Assistant as she shares her journey from a young student passionate about foreign languages to Congress. Learn how her unique path and dedication to public service have helped her contribute meaningfully to the legislative process. This video ties into the Bill of Rights Institute's Government and Politics: Civics for the American Experiment curriculum, specifically Unit 3, which examines the purpose and role of the legislature in the Constitution. Emerald's story highlights the importance of young voices in shaping Congress and demonstrates the power of civic engagement in a representative democracy.

Video

The House of Representatives | Government & Politics: Civics for the American Experiment

4 Min

What makes the U.S. Congress the cornerstone of our democracy? The framers designed the legislative branch to be the most powerful—closest to the people, representing their voices, and shaping the laws that govern our nation. But how does the House of Representatives fulfill this role, and why does it matter? Explore the structure of the House, the differences between the House and Senate, and the unique powers that set it apart. From drafting legislation and overseeing the executive branch to ensuring representation through frequent elections, discover how the House reflects the will of the people and upholds the principles of self-government.

Video

The Senate | Government & Politics: Civics for the American Experiment

3 Min

What makes the U.S. Senate a cornerstone of American democracy? Designed as a deliberative body, the Senate ensures stability, represents state interests, and upholds the principles of federalism. But how does it fulfill these crucial roles, and why does it matter? Explore the unique structure of the Senate, its differences from the House of Representatives, and the exclusive powers that set it apart. From confirming federal nominations and ratifying treaties to serving as the jury in impeachment trials, discover how the Senate balances representation and governance—giving every state an equal voice in shaping our nation’s future.

Video

Representation | Government & Politics: Civics for the American Experiment

5 Min

What makes the U.S. Congress the cornerstone of our democracy? The framers designed it to be the most powerful branch—closest to the people, representing their voices, and shaping the laws that govern our nation. But what does representation really mean, and why does it matter? Learn about the structure of Congress, the differences between the House and Senate, and the models of representation that guide lawmakers. From debate and deliberation to consensus-building, discover how Congress ensures diverse perspectives are heard and why its design is essential to protecting liberty and self-government.

Video

Rules and Procedures of Congress | Government & Politics: Civics for the American Experiment

3 Min

From committees and procedures to filibusters and cloture votes, Congress relies on a complex system of rules to manage debate, encourage compromise, and shape how laws are made. But how do these rules work in practice—and why do they matter? Explore how the House and Senate organize themselves, the different paths a bill can take, and why most legislation never becomes law. Discover how congressional rules have evolved over time, and how they balance the need for deliberation with the urgency of action in a representative democracy.


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