Legal Definitions - popular sovereignty

Definition: Popular sovereignty is the idea that the people have the ultimate power in a government. This means that the people can make decisions and choose their leaders through voting and other democratic processes.

Example: In the United States, popular sovereignty is a key principle of the Constitution. This means that the people have the power to elect their representatives, who then make decisions on their behalf. For example, during elections, citizens can vote for their preferred candidate for president, senator, or other government positions. The candidate who receives the most votes is then elected to represent the people.

Explanation: The example illustrates popular sovereignty because it shows how the people have the power to choose their leaders through voting. The government is ultimately accountable to the people, who have the power to elect or remove their representatives. This ensures that the government is responsive to the needs and desires of the people, and that the people have a say in how they are governed.