This lesson is from the first edition of We the People: The Citizen & the Constitution, Level 1, for upper elementary students. For sample lessons from the latest edition, please click here. Show
Student BookPurpose of LessonThis lesson will help you understand why the Founders thought a republican form of government was best. You will also learn about civic virtue and the common welfare. The Founders Studied HistoryThe Founders studied the history of governments. They were very interested in what they read about the government of the Roman Republic. It was located in what is now the country of Italy. The Roman Republic existed more than 2,000 years before our nation began. The Founders liked what they read about the Roman Republic. They learned some important ideas from their study of the government of ancient Rome. They used some of these ideas when they created our government. What is a Republican Government?The government of Rome was called a republican government. The Founders read that republican government was one in which:
Vocabulary Terms
What are the Advantages of Republican Government?The Founders thought a republican government was the best kind of government they could choose for themselves. They believed that the advantages of republican government were:
What is the Common Welfare?When a government tries to help everyone in a country, we say it is serving the common welfare. The common welfare is what is good for everyone in the country, not just a few people. Problem SolvingYour Interests and the Common WelfareHow do you decide what the common welfare is? When should you give up your own interests to do something that is good for everyone? Each person has to answer this question for himself or herself. The following exercise will help you do this. Work in groups of about three to five students. Each group should discuss the following questions. Be prepared to explain your group's answers to the class.
What is Civic Virtue?When you work to help others and promote the common welfare, you are showing civic virtue. The Founders thought civic virtue was important for a republican government. People with civic virtue are interested in having the government help all the people.
The Founders thought a republican government would work in our country. They believed most of the people had civic virtue. They thought the people would select leaders who would work for the common welfare. Reviewing and Using the Lesson
ISBN 0-89818-169-0 What describes the dedication of citizens to the common welfare to their community?civic virtue The dedication of citizens to the common welfare of their community or country, even at the cost of their individual interests. Traditionally considered most relevant to republics, since republican citizens are responsible for the well-being of their country.
What term best describes the idea that the government must act fairly and obey the rule of law?They must go to a court to obtain a search warrant. Which term best describes the idea that the government must act fairly and obey the rule of law? Due process.
Which term best defines the idea that no person is above the law?Which term best defines the idea that no person is above the law, including any government leader? The Rule of Law. How are members of the United States House of Representatives chosen?
What does the term citizen mean quizlet?Citizen. a person with certain rights and duties under government ; a person who by birth or by choice owes allegiance, or loyalty, to a nation. You just studied 10 terms!
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