Impeachment
The process by which a legislative body levels charges against a government official
Real World Example
Impeachment, introduced in the U.S. Constitution, allowed Congress to hold government officials accountable for misconduct. This was important because it provided a way to check and balance power, ensuring leaders could not misuse their authority. Historically, it responded to the problem of potential tyranny, a concern for the new democracy formed after the American Revolution. Today, impeachment remains crucial as it ensures leaders are responsible for their actions and can be removed if they violate public trust. For example, if a president were found guilty of corruption, impeachment could lead to their removal, showing citizens the importance of ethical leadership and maintaining democracy's integrity.