CONTENT STATEMENT
The U.S. Constitution established the foundations of the American nation and the relationship between the people and their government.
CONTENT ELABORATION
The U.S. Constitution strengthened the structure of the national government by:
establishing three separate branches;
including the principle of federalism that delineated the distribution of powers between the national government and the states;
instituting the ability to pass legislation and amend the Constitution; and
giving the ability to address the issues facing the nation (e.g., powers to levy taxes, raise armies, and regulate commerce) to Congress.
The U.S. Constitution defined the relationship between the people and their government by:
limiting government to protect individual and civil liberties;
ensuring people have a role in electing government representatives; and
guaranteeing power from the consent of the people.
EXPECTATIONS FOR LEARNING
Explain how the U.S. Constitution establishes a limited government that protects the rights of the people.