Final answer:
Popular sovereignty is the doctrine that a state is governed by the consent of its citizens, and it forms the foundation of democratic governments. It equates to the people having the ultimate authority over the government and being able to choose their representatives through elections. The term is historically linked to debates over issues such as slavery, and it underpins key democratic concepts as expressed in the Gettysburg Address.
Step-by-step explanation:
Popular sovereignty is a principle in political theory that emphasizes the role of the citizens in the authority and legitimacy of a government. In essence, it's the idea that a government is valid only if it is created and sustained by the consent of the people it governs. The concept of popular sovereignty is a foundational aspect of democratic governance and has been embodied by the United States, where the Constitution is seen as deriving its power from the will of the populace.
In practical terms, this means that the legitimacy of leaders and laws comes from the agreement and continuous support of the governed. Elections are a clear manifestation of popular sovereignty, allowing citizens to select their representatives and make their voices heard on issues. A historic application of this principle was seen during the national convention where Lewis Cass, an advocate of popular sovereignty, was nominated, representing the view that the residents of a territory should decide on matters such as the legality of slavery based on majority rule.
Popular sovereignty is both an expression of national self-determination and a balance of power, where the people hold ultimate control over their government, and where officials serve only at their constituency's discretion. This concept is echoed in Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address and fuels ongoing discussions and debates about the nature of democracy and self-governance around the world.