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Southern Methodist University
Central University Libraries
Government Information And Map Resources Department
Getting Started With Government Documents
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Overview
"Government Documents" refers to a very specific kind of government information resource. In this case, publications and information products produced by the United States Federal Government.
The 3 branches of the U. S. Government are:
- Legislative Branch -- "makes laws" -- bicameral, House and Senate
- Executive Branch -- "enacts" or implements laws -- administered by the President (e.g., the Cabinet)
- Judicial Branch -- "expound and define the true meaning and operation" of laws (after Alexander Hamilton) -- enforceable legal interpretation -- Supreme Court (SCOTUS) and Circuit Courts
A publication originating from within any of the 3 branches may become a "Government Document".
