Constitution 1
The first ten amendments to the constitution make up this
The Bill of Rights
This allows citizens to express their political views freely through writing, speaking, or the use of symbols.
Freedom of Speech
Period of time when new ideas about government spread throughout Europe
The Enlightenment
English document that limited the king's power by protecting basic rights; established 'limited monarchy' (the idea that the king is not all-powerful)
Magna Carta
Congress had no power to tax, to regulate trade, or to enforce its laws; no national court system (judicial branch) and no central leadership (executive branch); changes required unanimous approval of all 13 states
Weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation
The Bill of Rights guarantees this so that newspapers, magazines, and other materials may be published without government limits.
Freedom of the Press
The two steps in the amendment process are
Proposal and Ratification
Enlightenment thinker known for his idea on separation of powers.
Montesquieu
Pamphlet that used Locke's ideas to argue for independence; convinced many colonists to rebel against the king.
Thomas Paine's Common Sense
Congress can impeach, reject appointments, override vetoes, refuse treaties; President can veto (reject) legislation and appoint judges; Judges can declare acts unconstitutional
Specific Examples of Checks and Balances
The Constitution established this in order to prevent the government from setting up a national religion.
Separation of Church and State
Although the government has this power, it must pay citizens for any property it takes away.
Eminent Domain
Enlightenment thinker known for his ideas on natural law and social contract
John Locke
English document that listed eight rights no king could violate
English Bill of Rights
1st Amendment
Guarantee of free religion, assembly, speech, press, and petition (GRASP)
The Constitution can be changed through this process
The Amendment Process
The government cannot impose this, so people are free to practice the religion of their choice.
National Religion
The idea that all people are born equal with certain God-given rights including life, liberty, and property
John Locke's "Natural Rights"
First written agreement for self-government in America; Pilgrims agreed to work together to discuss and vote on laws.
Mayflower Compact
Colonist's demand political change through protests and boycotts, the colonist's grievances are ignored by the British, the Declaration of Independence is approved
Effects of English Policies
The Bill of Rights upholds the rights of the accused by protecting them from this, or being tried for the same crime twice.
Double Jeapardy
The Bill of Rights reflect the American idea of democracy because it guarantees the rights of people as this rather than subjects.
Citizens
Idea that everyone, even those who govern (are in power), follow the laws; everyone being treated equally & no one being above the law protects against tyranny
Rule of Law
The document that explains how our current government is supposed to work - the highest law of the land.
The US Constitution
The six goals of the Preamble to the Constitution
Form a more perfect union, establish justice, ensure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty