Foundations of Democracy
These essays were written with the goal of convincing states like New York that the Constitution was a good form of government.
The Federalist Papers
This branch interprets the laws
Judicial
What was a major problem the United States faced under the Articles of Confederation following the Revolutionary War?
$50 million in National Debt
Does this quote come from the Federalist or Anti-Federalist papers:
“If men were angels, no government would be necessary. If angels were to govern men, neither external nor internal controls on government would be necessary.”
Federalist
What are the first 3 words of the Constitution?
We the people
This served as the “blueprint” for how western lands—including Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois—would be divided and established.
The Northwest Ordinance
This branch has the power to declare executive acts unconstitutional
Judicial
How many states had to approve an amendment to the Articles of Confederation?
All 13
What addition to the Constitution led the Anti-Federalists to agree on its' ratification?
The Bill of Rights
Where are most crimes tried in court?
In the state they are committed in
This document came before the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the Constitution.
The Magna Carta
This branch has the power to impeach the President
Legislative
What was the only branch of government under the Articles of Confederation?
Legislative
What was the name of the plan at the Constitutional Convention that benefitted states with large populations?
The Virginia Plan
Every American who commits a crime has a right to... (list at least 2)
Trial by Jury, quick and fair public trial, an attorney, due process
John Locke believed that all people had the natural rights to what 3 things?
Life, Liberty, and Property
Why do Supreme Court Justices serve for life?
So their decision making is not influenced by the desire to keep their job (so their decisions are fair!)
What was the significance of Shays Rebellion?
It pointed out the flaws in the Articles of Confederation
What did "The Great Compromise" create?
A Bicameral Legislature (House of Representatives and Senate)
Which level of government has the power to impose taxes?
The Northwest Ordinance famously prohibited what in the new territories?
Slavery
Why do we have three separate branches of government (Separation of Powers)
To ensure that one branch does not become too powerful (Checks and Balances)
What were the reasons (2) that some felt the Articles of Confederation were too weak?
Congress could not impose taxes or raise an army
Who were the 3 authors of the Federalist Papers?
Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay
What are 2 of the 3 reasons the President be impeached for?
Treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors