FRtR > Outlines > The American Government > The Constitution: An Enduring Document > The Principles Of Government
An Outline of American Government
The Constitution: An Enduring Document
5/10 The Principles Of Government
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Although the Constitution has changed in many aspects since
it was first adopted, its basic principles remain the same now as in
1789:
- The three main branches of government are separate and
distinct from one another. The powers given to each are delicately
balanced
by the powers of the other two. Each branch serves as a check on
potential excesses of the others.
- The Constitution, together with laws passed according to
its
provisions, and treaties entered into by the president and
approved
by the Senate, stands above all other laws, executive acts and
regulations.
- All persons are equal before the law and are equally
entitled
to
its protection. All states are equal, and none can receive
special
treatment from the federal government. Within the limits of the
Constitution, each state must recognize and respect the laws of
the
others. State governments, like the federal government, must be
democratic in form, with final authority resting with the people.
- The people have the right to change their form of national
government by legal means defined in the Constitution itself.
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