U.S. History STAAR ( State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) Practice Test

What are the seven principles of government?

1. Checks and balances, Separation of powers, and Federalism

2. Republicanism, Popular Sovereignty, and Monarchy

3. Federalism, Limited Government, and Totalitarianism

4. Republicanism, Popular Sovereignty, and Federalism

The correct answer is: Republicanism, Popular Sovereignty, and Federalism

The correct choice highlights three of the foundational principles that underpin the structure and function of the U.S. government as established in the Constitution. Republicanism emphasizes the idea that the government is a representative form of government, where officials are elected to make decisions on behalf of the people. This notion is key to the functioning of a democratic society, as it requires citizen participation and accountability of elected representatives. Popular Sovereignty refers to the principle that the authority of the government is created and sustained by the consent of its people, through their elected representatives. This principle ensures that the government reflects the will of the people and is answerable to them, reinforcing the democratic nature of the U.S. political system. Federalism involves the distribution of power between a central government and regional governments (like states), allowing for a division of responsibilities and helping to prevent the concentration of governmental power. This structure enables different levels of government to operate, catering to local needs while still being part of a larger national framework. These principles are essential to understanding the foundational ideas that guide American governance, and they encapsulate the balance between authority and the rights of citizens. The other choices do not accurately reflect the key principles established by the Constitution and could confuse essential governance concepts with less relevant or incompatible