The founders of the U.S. government firmly believed in the idea of self-government. Representative government is one form of self-government that is more effective for larger and more diverse communities where direct participation in government would delay decision-making. A representative government, in contrast, depends on the people to elect responsible leaders who will govern on behalf of the common good. Representatives in Congress serve as the voice in government for their constituents.
Theme
LOC Resource
LOC Title
Creating the United States Constitution- Representation
LOC Short Description
An interactive presentation to connect ideas in the U.S. Constitution to documents that came before it, with a section on representation.
LOC Title
Creating the United States
LOC Short Description
An exhibition on the creation of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.
LOC Title
Primary Documents in American History: United States Constitution
LOC Short Description
A list of online and print resources related to the U.S. Constitution.