Principles of American Democracy

What to know

The Constitution is the supreme law of the United States. It sets up the federal government, divides its power, and protects the rights of the people. It opens with the words “We the People,” which express the idea of self-government: the government gets its power from the people it serves.

The first ten amendments are called the Bill of Rights. Since 1787 the Constitution has been amended 27 times. Amendments are hard to pass on purpose, so the basic rules stay stable over time.

Several ideas run through the whole system. The rule of law means everyone, including leaders and officials, must follow the law. Federalism divides power between the national government and the states, and the Tenth Amendment keeps powers not given to the federal government for the states or the people. Checks and balances and the separation of powers keep any one branch from becoming too strong.

The United States has a market economy, often described as capitalism, in which most businesses and property are privately owned.

Key facts to remember

• The Constitution is the supreme law of the land.
• The first ten amendments are the Bill of Rights.
• The Constitution has 27 amendments.
• Rule of law: no one is above the law.
• Federalism divides power between the federal government and the states.
• Checks and balances stop one branch from holding too much power.
• The economic system is capitalism, or a market economy.

Read the official study materials

This summary is our own and doesn’t replace the official guide. Read “Principles of American Government” in the USCIS study materials on uscis.gov, then test yourself below. Next topic: System of government.