Question

provide for the common defense
ways the u.s. provides defense:
should all citizens contribute? how?
promote the general welfare
what do you think \general welfare\ meant in 1787?
what does it include today?
should anything be added? explain.
secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity
whats the key word in this phrase?
how does this relate to the declaration of independence?
who is responsible for this: the government or the people? why?

Explanation:

1. Provide for the common defense: The U.S. provides defense through its military branches (Army, Navy, Air - Force, etc.), intelligence agencies, and defense - related policies. Citizens can contribute through military service, paying taxes that fund defense, and supporting defense - related industries.
2. Promote the General Welfare: In 1787, it likely meant ensuring the well - being of the general population in terms of basic needs like food, shelter, and health to some extent. Today, it includes social security, healthcare programs (Medicare, Medicaid), welfare benefits, and public education. Some may argue that environmental protection and mental health services could be added as they are crucial for overall well - being.
3. Secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity: The key word is "Liberty". The Declaration of Independence declared the colonies' freedom from British rule and the right to self - governance. Securing liberty in the context of the Constitution is about protecting individual rights and freedoms, which is an extension of the ideals in the Declaration. The government is responsible for this as it is tasked with upholding the law and the Constitution that safeguard these liberties, but the people also play a role through active citizenship, participating in the democratic process, and holding the government accountable.

Answer:

1. Ways the U.S. provides defense: Military branches, intelligence agencies, defense policies. Citizens can contribute through military service, paying taxes, supporting defense industries.
2. In 1787, "general welfare" likely meant basic well - being. Today it includes social security, healthcare, welfare, public education. Could add environmental protection and mental health services.
3. Key word: Liberty. Related to Declaration of Independence as it extends the ideals of freedom and self - governance. Government is responsible to uphold laws and Constitution, but people also play a role through active citizenship.