This document provides an overview of civics and citizenship in the United States. It begins with definitions of civics and citizenship, then discusses the history of civic engagement and government in America from the colonial period through amendments that expanded voting rights. Key documents that shaped the country like the Declaration of Independence and Constitution are also mentioned. The rights and responsibilities of citizens are then outlined according to the USCIS, including freedoms like speech, worship, and voting as well as duties like obeying laws, paying taxes, and serving on a jury.

1. Civics & the Citizen
 Introduction to Civics:
o What is "Civics"? Patriotism? Rights?
Definition:
noun, ( used with a singular verb)
1. the study or science of the privileges and obligations of citizens.
o Who is considered a citizen?
 Overview of U.S. Civic Engagement
o A brief history of the American mindsettoward and relationship with government
 Oppression fromgovernment& Religious Persecution in Europewhich
leads to emigration
 Diverseexperiences of the earliest Americans, native to North America, as
well as the various immigrant groups.
o Brief history of the Revolutionary Period + Founding Documents
 Founding Fathers
 Declaration of Independence
 U.S. Constitution (What is a Constitution?)
 Bill of Rights & other amendments
 Living & Breathing Documentwhich can be amended
 Subsequentinspiration worldwidefor a similar form of government
o Eligibility as Citizens throughoutthe past
o Rights of Citizens throughoutthe past
o Movements to changerights to Suffrage
o Civic Engagement through 1st
Amendment Rights
o Voter Turnoutthroughoutthe past

2. Rights & Responsibilities of Citizens
(According to the US Citizenship & Immigration Services Division
of the US Department of Homeland Security)
 Rights of Citizens:
o Freedomto express yourself.
o Freedomto worship as you wish.
o Right to a prompt, fair trial by jury.
o Right to vote in elections for public officials.
o Right to apply for federal employment requiring U.S. citizenship.
o Right to run for elected office.
o Freedomto pursue“life, liberty, and the pursuitof happiness.”
 Responsibilities of Citizens:
o Supportand defend the Constitution.
o Stay informed of the issues affecting your community.
o Participate in the democratic process.
o Respect and obey federal, state, and local laws.
o Respect the rights, beliefs, and opinions of others.
o Participate in your local community.
o Pay income and other taxes honestly, and on time, to federal, state, and local
authorities.
o Serveon a jury when called upon.
o Defend the country if the need should arise.