ABSTRACT
The political system that developed in the United States following the Revolution was based on the democratic ideology. One of the most important principles that resulted when the attempt was made to translate ideology into practice was the principle of limited government. This principle is carried out by several typically American institutions. The American Constitution imposes restraints on the power of government through the principles of federalism, the separation of powers, the system of checks and balances, and judicial supremacy. Federalism is a system that provides for the division of power between state governments and the national government. The judicial system and the principle of judicial review establish the final authority for interpretation of the Constitution. The Bill of Rights sets limits on political power by granting individuals certain rights and liberties. Judicial review is the ability to rule on the constitutionality of laws originating either in the executive or in the legislative branch.
