U.S. Citizenship Civics TestPrinciples of American DemocracyEasy
The first three words of the U.S. Constitution are 'We the People.' What fundamental principle of American democracy do these words express?
- AThe idea of self-government
- BThe power of the executive branch
- CThe concept of judicial review
- DThe importance of individual states' rights
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. The idea of self-government
These words signify that the authority of the government comes from the citizens, embodying the principle of self-government or popular sovereignty.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. The executive branch's power is derived from the Constitution, which is established by 'We the People,' not defined by it.
- C. Judicial review is a power of the courts, established later, not directly by 'We the People'.
- D. 'We the People' emphasizes national unity and popular sovereignty, not primarily states' rights.
Self-Government
The principle that the authority of the government is created and sustained by the consent of its people, through their elected representatives.
- Power comes from the people
- Citizens elect representatives
- Expressed in 'We the People'
Memory trick: WE THE PEOPLE, we rule!