One Nation, One People: The USCIS Civics Test Textbook

This chapter delves into the U.S. Constitution, its origins, structure, and enduring significance. Written in 1787 during the Founding Era by influential leaders like George Washington and James Madison, the Constitution established the U.S. government and safeguarded citizens' rights. It comprises a Preamble and seven sections, subsequently amended 27 times. The Preamble underscores self-governance, encapsulated by the phrase "We the People." The Constitution delineates the separation of powers among the Legislative, Executive, and Judicial branches to prevent any single entity from gaining excessive control. It also outlines the powers of the federal and state governments, including defense, treaty-making, and currency issuance. Amendments, such as the Bill of Rights, have expanded individual rights and clarified citizenship and voting laws. Ultimately, the Constitution is the supreme law, ensuring all government levels adhere to its principles and the rule of law.

This chapter explains the structure and functions of the Legislative Branch of the U.S. government, also known as Congress, which is responsible for making federal laws. Congress consists of two parts: the House of Representatives and the Senate. The House has 435 voting members, with representation based on state population; for instance, populous California has 52 representatives, while Wyoming, the least populous state, has one. Members serve two-year terms, must be at least 25, and must reside in the state they represent. The Senate comprises 100 members, with two senators from each state regardless of population. The chapter underscores the foundational belief in representative governance established during the Constitutional Convention.

This chapter outlines the structure and functions of the Executive Branch of the U.S. government, emphasizing its key components: the President, Vice President, and various federal agencies and departments. The President, elected every four years and limited to two terms, heads the branch and serves as the Commander in Chief of the military. Supported by the Cabinet, composed of department leaders like the Secretary of Homeland Security, the President enforces laws, protects the nation, and manages international relations. The Vice President acts as a key advisor and assumes the presidency if needed. The chapter also discusses the constitutional safeguards ensuring no one, including the President, is above the law, highlighting the importance of the “rule of law” in American democracy.

This chapter delves into the Judicial Branch of the U.S. government, highlighting its structure and function. The branch comprises the Supreme Court, the highest court in the country, and other federal courts, collectively ensuring the rule of law by interpreting the Constitution. The Founders of the Constitution designed the judiciary to be insulated from political pressures, with federal judges appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, exemplifying the separation of powers. This system prevents any single branch from becoming too powerful. The Judicial Branch reviews laws to ensure they adhere to the Constitution, with the Supreme Court's decisions being final. Comprising nine justices, including the Chief Justice, the Supreme Court selects cases to hear and issues decisions based on the majority vote, underscoring its crucial role in upholding constitutional governance.