The Constitution is the foundational legal document that governs the United States. It holds supremacy over all other laws, guiding the structure and functions of the government.

The legislative branch, primarily through Congress, is tasked with creating laws. This branch is integral to representing the will of the people and establishing legal frameworks.

Separation of powers divides governmental authority among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. This division ensures that no single branch becomes overly dominant.

The Bill of Rights consists of the first ten amendments and is designed to safeguard individual liberties. It limits the power of the government by ensuring citizens' rights are protected.

The judicial branch, led by the Supreme Court, is responsible for interpreting laws. Its role includes reviewing laws to ensure they conform to the Constitution.

The First Amendment guarantees freedom of speech along with other essential rights like freedom of religion and assembly. It is a cornerstone of American democracy and individual liberty.

Federalism is a system of government in which power is shared between a central authority and regional governments. This division of power allows states to maintain autonomy while upholding national unity.

Checks and balances is designed to prevent any single branch of government from dominating the others. It allows each branch to limit the powers of the others, thereby maintaining a balance within the government.

Voting is a fundamental aspect of participation in a democracy. It allows citizens to influence government decisions and ensures political accountability.

A bicameral legislature, divided into two separate chambers, is a key structural feature of many governments. It provides balance and checks within the legislative process.

The U.S. Constitution grants Congress, the legislative body, the authority to declare war. This separation of powers ensures that decisions of such magnitude are not taken unilaterally by the executive.

The executive branch is accountable primarily through the electoral process and through judicial review of its actions. These mechanisms help ensure that the government's actions remain legal and aligned with public interests.

The Bill of Rights was established in response to fears that the federal government might infringe upon individual liberties. It was a proactive measure to protect citizens against potential abuses of power.

The Supreme Court's main function is to interpret the Constitution and ensure that laws adhere to its principles. Its rulings set important precedents and help guide the legal framework in the country.

A key characteristic of a democracy is the active participation of the public in political decision-making, particularly through regular and free elections. In contrast, authoritarian regimes typically concentrate power and limit citizen involvement.

Marbury v. Madison is the landmark case that established judicial review, empowering the courts to declare laws unconstitutional. This principle is a critical aspect of the balance of power in the U.S. government.

The Elastic Clause, also known as the Necessary and Proper Clause, provides Congress with the flexibility to enact laws needed to exercise its constitutional duties. This clause has been pivotal in helping the government adapt to changing circumstances.

Popular sovereignty means that the government's authority comes from the people. This principle ensures that policies and laws reflect the wishes and needs of the citizens.

The doctrine of separation of powers divides governmental functions among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. This structure is designed to provide checks and balances that prevent any one branch from dominating the government.

Interest groups are organizations that work to influence public policy and decision-making by lobbying government officials and shaping public opinion. Their efforts help ensure that a variety of perspectives are considered in the legislative process.