Foundations of Americans Democracy
This document, signed in 1776, declared the American colonies' independence from Britain.
What is the Declaration of Independence?
What is the name of the U.S. Congress's two chambers?
The House of Representatives and the Senate
Which amendment guarantees freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition?
The First Amendment
What term describes a belief that government should play a minimal role in the economy?
Economic conservatism or laissez-faire
What is the main way most Americans participate in politics?
Voting
This Enlightenment philosopher’s ideas about natural rights and the social contract heavily influenced the Founding Fathers.
Who is John Locke?
Which branch of government has the power to veto legislation?
The Executive Branch (President)
What case ruled that segregation in public schools is unconstitutional?
Brown v. Board of Education
Which political ideology generally supports more government intervention in social programs?
Liberalism
What is the term for redrawing congressional districts to favor one party?
Gerrymandering
The first U.S. constitution, which was later replaced due to its weakness in central government power.
What are the Articles of Confederation?
What landmark case established judicial review?
Marbury v. Madison
What clause in the 14th Amendment has been used to apply the Bill of Rights to the states?
The Due Process Clause
What is political socialization?
The process by which individuals acquire their political beliefs and values
What federal law aimed to increase voter registration by allowing it at DMV offices?
The Motor Voter Act (National Voter Registration Act of 1993)
This principle divides power between the national and state governments.
What is federalism?
Who confirms presidential appointments to the Supreme Court?
The Senate
What is the legal standard that must be met before police can search someone without a warrant?
Probable cause
What is a political ideology that favors traditional values and opposes major government changes?
Conservatism
A Political Action Committee — an organization that raises money to support candidates and influence elections
What is a PAC?
This group supported the ratification of the U.S. Constitution and wrote a series of essays defending it.
Who were the Federalists?
What is the term for when the President issues a directive that has the power of law without Congressional approval?
Executive order
Which case guaranteed the right to a lawyer even if the accused cannot afford one?
Gideon v. Wainwright
What is the difference between a liberal and a libertarian on economic policy?
Liberals support government regulation; libertarians support free markets with little to no regulation
What Supreme Court case removed limits on independent political spending by corporations and unions?
Citizens United v. FEC