Principles of American Democracy

The major purpose of this course is to analyze our system of government and the historical background, fundamental concepts and principles that underlie American democracy. The course covers the development of the Constitution, Bill of Rights, and Federalism. It also includes a study of political parties, voting and voting behavior, and elections at the national, state, and local levels. The course will analyze the influence of special interest groups and the role of the media in shaping public opinion. The course also covers the role and responsibilities of the three branches of government at the national, state, and local levels. This course will summarize landmark court decisions in terms of civil rights and civil liberties and will also study complex contemporary issues that confront national, state, and local governments such as immigration, race, abortion, gender, sexual orientation, and disabilities. This course should be viewed as the culmination of the civics literacy strand of the California History – Social Science Framework.