American Government focuses on the philosophy, history, documents, and structures that have shaped and formed our democratic government. Themes considered include the nature of government, the role of the federal branches of government, and how rights are safeguarded by the Constitution. The class will examine questions on the role of government, such as the goals of those who govern, America's loyalty to its democratic and republican ideals, and the extent to which citizens can and should be involved in today's government. Content includes the impact of the Roman Republic and the writings of John Locke on the Framers, the Framers work on the Articles of Confederation and the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, as well as New Hampshire state government and Constitution. Class members learn, through class discussions, reading, homework assignments, group projects (such a PowerPoint presentations creating a Cabinet, and action on citizens issues such as the environment and voter registration) lectures and field trips, to critically reflect on the governance of their country, examine their place in the tradition of democratic rule, and build their own unique views and interpretations.