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the principles that a democratic form of government is based a set of documents (usually a Constitution and a set of laws) rather than rules arbitrarily set by a king or despot, and, that laws apply equally to all citizens including public officials.

>> More to know << Four universal principles have been recommended by The World Justice Project to strengthen the rule of law worldwide: "1. The government and its officials and agents are accountable under the law. 2. The laws are clear, publicized, stable and fair, and protect fundamental rights, including the security of persons and property. 3. The process by which the laws are enacted, administered and enforced is accessible, fair and efficient. 4. Access to justice is provided by competent, independent, and ethical adjudicators, attorneys or representatives and judicial officers who are of sufficient number, have adequate resources, and reflect the makeup of the communities they serve."

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The American system of government is based on the U.S. Constitution, Bill of Rights, laws enacted by the legislative branch and interpreted by the courts. The National Archives and Records Administration has compiled Our Documents - 100 Milestone Documents, a collection of the most important documents in United States history from 1776 to 1965.




Dialogue on the Rule of Law - the American Bar Association provides resources for lawyers, judges, and teachers to engage students and community groups in discussions about the rule of law.




National Constitution Center - Philadelphia - Created by Congress in 1988, the Center is "an independent, non-partisan, non-profit organization dedicated to increasing awareness about the Constitution and its relevance in Americans’ daily lives."