Government and Constitution Flashcard

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What is the System of Checks and Balances?

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A system that ensures no one branch of government becomes too powerful by allowing each branch to limit the powers of the others.

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What are the three branches of government?

Back

Executive, Legislative, and Judicial.

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What is the role of the Executive Branch?

Back

To enforce and carry out laws; led by the President.

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What is the role of the Legislative Branch?

Back

To make laws; consists of Congress, which is divided into the House of Representatives and the Senate.

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What is the role of the Judicial Branch?

Back

To interpret laws and administer justice; includes the Supreme Court and other courts.

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What does 'Popular Sovereignty' mean?

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The principle that the authority of the government is created and sustained by the consent of its people.

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What is a 'Bicameral Legislature'?

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A legislature with two houses or chambers, such as the U.S. Congress, which has the House of Representatives and the Senate.

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What is 'Direct Democracy'?

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A form of democracy in which people vote on laws and policies directly, rather than through representatives.

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What is 'Republican Government'?

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A form of government in which the country is considered a 'public matter' and is not the private concern of the rulers.

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What does 'Judicial Review' mean?

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The power of courts to assess whether a law is in compliance with the Constitution.