Which principle means all political power comes from the people?

• A. Divine right
• B. Federalism
• C. Direct democracy
• D. Popular sovereignty

Answer: (D)

Popular sovereignty means all political power comes from the people. Governments derive their legitimacy from the consent of the governed, which people express through voting, elections, and active civic participation. This idea is different from divine right, which claims authority comes from God, and from federalism, which describes how power is divided between national and state levels. Direct democracy is a way for people to vote directly on laws, but the broader principle is that ultimate authority rests with the people, whether they govern through representatives or directly. So this statement aligns with popular sovereignty.