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We seek an America where we more perfectly realize the promise of liberty and equality expressed in the Declaration of Independence. This calls for civic education that helps students examine the story of our country and exercise the skills of citizenship.
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Founding Principles | Government & Politics: Civics for the American Experiment

Description

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

Related Resources

Government and Politics: Civics for the American Experiment

How does a system of self-governance support American ideals?

Unit 1: Foundation of American Self-Government

How does the structure of government influence the process of lawmaking and reflect the will of the people?

Declaration of Independence

On June 7, 1776, Richard Henry Lee brought what came to be called the Lee Resolution before the Continental Congress. This resolution stated “these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent states ...” Congress debated independence for several days.

The Constitution

The Constitution was written in the summer of 1787 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, by delegates from 12 states, in order to replace the Articles of Confederation with a new form of government. It created a federal system with a national government composed of 3 separated powers, and included both reserved and concurrent powers of states.

Bill of Rights: The 1st Ten Amendments

The first 10 amendments to the Constitution make up the Bill of Rights. James Madison wrote the amendments, which list specific prohibitions on governmental power, in response to calls from several states for greater constitutional protection for individual liberties.

Primary Sources: John Locke and Baron de Montesquieu

Excerpts of John Locke's "Two Treatises on Government" and Baron de Montesquieu's "On the Spirit of the Laws " and Comprehension Questions.

Scaffolded Primary Sources: John Locke and Baron de Montesquieu

Scaffolded excerpts of The English Bill of Rights, John Locke's "Two Treatises on Government", and Baron de Montesquieu's "On the Spirit of the Laws ".