Representative Democracy

A type of democracy where elected officials represent a group of people.

Declaration of Independence

The document declaring the thirteen American colonies independent from British rule.

An essay by James Madison arguing for the ratification of the Constitution.

Articles of Confederation

The first constitution of the United States, which was replaced by the current Constitution.

Structure of the Constitution

The framework that outlines the organization of the U.S. government.

Congress may submit a proposed constitutional amendment to the states, if the proposed amendment language is approved by a two-thirds vote of both houses. Congress must call a convention for proposing amendments upon application of the legislatures of two-thirds of the states (i.e., 34 of 50 states). Amendments proposed by Congress or convention become valid only when ratified by the legislatures of, or conventions in, three-fourths of the states (i.e., 38 of 50 states).

A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units.

Powers that are reserved to the federal government.

Powers not explicitly stated in the Constitution but are inferred.

Reserved Powers (10th Amendment)

Powers that are not granted to the federal government nor prohibited to the states.

Powers that are shared by both the federal and state governments.

Gives citizenship to all people born or naturalized in the U.S., and ensures everyone has equal protection under the laws, preventing states from denying people rights without fair legal process. Equal Protection Clause Due Process Clause

Legal requirement that the state must respect all legal rights owed to a person. 5th & 14th Amendments

Equal Protection Clause

Part of the Fourteenth Amendment that requires states to provide equal protection under the law.

Gives Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and among the states.

Necessary and Proper Clause

Allows Congress to make laws it needs to carry out its own powers. "Elastic Clause"

Establishes that federal law takes precedence over state law.The Constitution is the law of the land.

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

A landmark case that established the principle of judicial review.

A legal decision that serves as an example for future cases.

"Let the decision stand". The legal doctrine of precedent.

View that argues judges should use their power broadly to further justice and apply present day values to their constitutional decisions.

(original intent): View that the Constitution should be interpreted according to the original intent of the framers.

Formal Powers: Presidential powers outlined in the U.S Constitution. Informal Powers: Powers of the president that have been expanded over time, but are not mentioned in the Constitution.

Decides how the laws of the U.S. are to be enforced. Appoints officials (Agency/dept. heads, Supreme Court Justices, etc.), issues executive orders, serves as leader of the bureaucracy.

in control of the nation’s armed forces Gives military orders- sends troops overseas Requests declaration of war

Nation’s chief spokesperson to the world and designer of foreign policy. Meets with foreign leaders, constructs treaties/executive agreements.

Designer of public policy. Helps shape congressional agenda and priorities.

Ceremonial head of the U.S. government. Gives Speeches, Awards Honors, Hosts Dinners

Acknowledged leader of their political party. Appoints party leadership to influential positions, supports party candidates in other offices.

Qualifications to be President?

Must be a natural-born citizen, at least 35 years old, and a resident for 14 years.

Qualifications Vice President?

Must meet the same qualifications as the President.

Revises presidential election procedures.

Changes the dates of congressional and presidential terms.

Limits the President to two terms.

Addresses presidential succession and disability.

Qualifications to become a US Representative

Must be at least 25 years old, a citizen for 7 years, and a resident of the state.

Qualifications to become a Senator

Must be at least 30 years old, a citizen for 9 years, and a resident of the state.

The authority granted to Congress by the Constitution.

Explain the differences in the two houses, how they operate, debate…

The House of Representatives is larger and has stricter rules, while the Senate is smaller and has more flexible rules.

permanent committees that handle most legislative business. Study legislation Gather information through hearings and investigations.

smaller committees within the standing committees.

Formed to investigate a specific problem. Usually temporary Make recommendations based on investigations

Key Concepts in American Government Flashcards

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82 questions

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1.

FLASHCARD QUESTION

Front

Individual Rights

Back

The rights guaranteed to individuals by law.

2.

FLASHCARD QUESTION

Front

Popular Sovereignty

Back

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

3.

FLASHCARD QUESTION

Front

Social Contract

Back

An implicit agreement among the members of a society to cooperate for social benefits.

4.

FLASHCARD QUESTION

Front

Limited Government

Back

A political system where the legalized force is restricted through delegated and enumerated powers.

5.

FLASHCARD QUESTION

Front

Checks and Balances

Back

A system that ensures that no branch of government becomes too powerful.

6.

FLASHCARD QUESTION

Front

Separation of Powers

Back

The division of government responsibilities into distinct branches.

7.

FLASHCARD QUESTION

Front

Direct Democracy

Back

A form of democracy in which people decide on policy initiatives directly.

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