• Unit 1: American Political Foundations

    The American political system is rich in history. In order to gain a comprehensive understanding of American government, you will need to learn this history and recognize the ways in which it impacts the political landscape today.

    This unit will begin with a brief introduction to the course as well as a concise overview of the American political system. You will focus on broad-based questions and explore the defining characteristics of American government. Next, you will work to identify the origins of American republican democracy, learning how it developed and evolved into our current political system. Finally, you will conclude by examining the key principles embedded in the United States Constitution, particularly federalism, and relate its design and development to the unique American political system we have in place today.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 18 hours.

    • 1.1: The Challenge of Democracy and the American Political System

    • 1.2: The Constitution

    • 1.3: Federalism

    • Unit 1 Assessment

      • Unit 1 Assessment Quiz

        Please take this assessment to check your understanding of the materials presented in this unit.

        Notes:

        • There is no minimum required score to pass this assessment, and your score on this assessment will not factor into your overall course grade.
        • This assessment is designed to prepare you for the Final Exam that will determine your course grade. Upon submission of your assessment you will be provided with the correct answers and/or other feedback meant to help in your understanding of the topics being assessed.
        • You may attempt this assessment as many times as needed, whenever you would like.