18. Why does the U.S Constitution mark a turning point in the way people viewed government?What impact do you think it has had since its drafting?

The U.S. Constitution marks a turning point in how people viewed government because it established the idea of **popular sovereignty** and a **written, codified framework for limiting governmental power**. Prior to the Constitution, governmental authority was often seen as derived from divine right or inherited power. The Constitution, however, explicitly states that power resides in the people ("We the People...") and that the government derives its just powers from the consent of the governed. This was a radical departure from traditional views of governance.<br /><br />Furthermore, the Constitution established a system of **checks and balances** and **separation of powers** among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. This framework aimed to prevent tyranny by distributing power and ensuring that no single branch could become too dominant. The inclusion of a **Bill of Rights**, guaranteeing fundamental individual liberties, further solidified the principle of limited government and protection of individual rights against government intrusion.<br /><br />Since its drafting, the U.S. Constitution has had a profound and lasting impact, both domestically and internationally:<br /><br />* **Domestically:** It has provided a stable framework for American governance, allowing for peaceful transitions of power and resolution of disputes through established legal processes. It has also served as a catalyst for social change, with amendments abolishing slavery, expanding suffrage, and guaranteeing equal protection under the law. The Constitution continues to be the subject of debate and interpretation, shaping legal and political discourse in the United States.<br />* **Internationally:** The U.S. Constitution has served as a model for many other countries seeking to establish democratic governments based on the principles of popular sovereignty, limited government, and protection of individual rights. Its influence can be seen in constitutions around the world, reflecting the enduring power of its ideas.<br /><br />It's important to note that the Constitution has not always been perfectly applied, and its interpretation has evolved over time. However, its core principles continue to shape the American political landscape and inspire democratic movements globally.<br />