The Constitution Vocab Flashcard

Front

In history, what is the "Articles of Confederation"?

Back

The first written plan of government for the United States. A confederation is an assocation of states that cooperate for a common purpose.

Front

In history, what is a "constitution"?

Back

A written plan that provides the basic framework of a government

Front

What does "ratify" mean?

Back

To formally approve a plan or agreement. The process of approval is called ratification.

Front

In history, what is a republic?

Back

A country governed by elected representatives

Front

In history, what is "checks and balances"? Options: A system where the branches of government do not interact with each other, A system where the government has no control over its actions, A system where only one branch of government has all the power, The system that allows each branch of government to limit the powers of the other two branches

Back

The system that allows each branch of government to limit the powers of the other two branches

Front

In history, what is the "Executive Branch"?

Back

The part of government that carries out, or executes, the laws

Front

In history, what is the "Legislative Branch"?

Back

The lawmaking part of government, called the legislature. To legislate is to make a law

Front

In history, what is the "Judicial Branch"?

Back

The part of government, consisting of the Supreme Court and lower federal courts, that interprets the laws