According to the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, where does the government get its power?

The government derives its power from the consent of the governed, as established by both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. This principle is rooted in the belief that the authority of the government comes from the people it serves.

1. Declaration of Independence: The Declaration, authored by Thomas Jefferson in 1776, states that governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. This means that the legitimacy of government is based on the agreement and approval of the people.

2. Constitution: The Constitution of the United States, ratified in 1788, further solidifies this idea. The Preamble begins with "We the People," emphasizing that the power and authority of the government emanate from the citizens. This foundational document establishes a system of governance that is accountable to the populace, ensuring that the government operates with their best interests in mind.

Overall, both documents underscore a democratic principle: that power should not come from force or hereditary right, but through the agreement and participation of the people within the society. This concept has been fundamental to American democracy and continues to influence its operations today.