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Chapter 1 Section 1 Notes. Government of the People, by the People, for the People. The Need for Government. Without government to make and enforce laws, we would live in a state of confusion, violence and fear. We would also struggle to meet our needs entirely on our own.
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Chapter 1 Section 1 Notes Government of the People, by the People, for the People
The Need for Government • Without government to make and enforce laws, we would live in a state of confusion, violence and fear. • We would also struggle to meet our needs entirely on our own. • Government makes it possible for people to live together peacefully and productively
The Functions of Government • There are 3 main functions of government • Keeping Order and Providing Security • Providing Public Services • Guiding the Community
Keeping Order and Providing Security • Governments make laws to help prevent conflicts and settle conflicts that arise. • Governments have the power to enforce laws • Court systems also determine whether or not people are innocent and decide punishment if found guilty. • The government also defends citizens and their land from enemies. (The Armed Forces)
Providing Public Services • Governments provide many services • They create libraries, schools, hospitals, p arks and recreation centers • Develop systems of mass transit and supply water to homes. • Build and repair streets, erect bridges, collect garbage and deliver mail • Many services are aimed at keeping the public healthy and safe. • Governments also give help to needy people
Guiding the Community • Governments formulate publicpolicy. • They must create a budget • Develop relationships with neighbors and other outsiders. • International trade, travel, and military pacts are all part of public policy
Levels of Government • In the United States there are 3 levels of government. • 1. National/Federal Government-Decides matters for the entire country. • 2. State Government- decides matters for people within a particular state • 3. Local Government- decides matters for people within a county city or town.
Democratic Government • The concept of democracy was established more than 2,500 years ago in ancient Greece and Rome • There are two types of democracies • Direct Democracy • Representative Democracy • The United States is the oldest representative democracy in the world!
Principles of American Democracy • The power of the government comes from citizens • Americans rule the government by acting through representatives. • The purpose of the government is to make the United States a better place for those who live here.
More Principles of Democracies • All democracies have free, fair and competitive elections. • All people have an equal opportunity to develop their talents • Majority Rule