Foundations of American democracy

This course is a part of US government and civics, a 9-course Topic series from Khan Academy.

In this unit, we delve into the ideas, debates, and history of American government. Learn about the philosophy that inspired the Founders of the United States and the Framers of the Constitution.

This course contains 9 segments:

Ideals of democracy

In this lesson, you'll learn about the ideas behind the government of the United States.

Types of democracy

Democracy comes in many forms. In this lesson, you'll learn about three main types: participatory, pluralist, and elite democracy.

Challenges of the Articles of Confederation

The Articles of Confederation formed the first governmental system of the United States. The weaknesses of the Articles, however, led to the development of the new US Constitution.

Government power and individual rights

How much power should the government have? In this lesson, you'll learn about the major arguments for and against a powerful central government.

Ratification of the US Constitution

In this lesson, you'll explore the debates and compromises at the Constitutional Convention that led to the governmental system we have today.

Principles of American government

In this lesson, you'll learn about the principles of American government, including separation of powers and checks and balances.

The relationship between the states and the federal government

The United States has a federal governmental system, with government at the state and national level. But how do those multiple layers relate to each other?

Constitutional interpretations of federalism

Where are the boundaries of federal and state powers? In this lesson, you'll learn about the enumerated and implied powers of the federal government, the 10th and 14th amendments, and major Supreme Courts that have interpreted this question.

Federalism in action

How does federalism really work in practice?