Foundational Docs
This document argues for natural rights, explains the purpose of government, and says people should revolt against any government that fails to protect these rights.
Declaration of Independance
This case established the 1 person, 1 vote principle.
Baker v Carr
What is a check the legislative branch has on the executive branch?
Override Vetos
Senate must approve appointments and treaties
What is the most common form of political activity?
Voting
DAILY DOUBLE!!
These 3 presidents have had the highest military ranks before becoming president
Washington - General and Commander in Chief
Grant - General to the Armies of the United States
Eisenhower - General and Supreme Allied Commander of European Invasion
This document lays out the system of Federalism, separation of powers, and much power.
The Constitution
In this case the Supreme Court ruled that while race can be a factor in redistricting, it cannot be the predominant factor, and districts drawn solely based on race are subject to strict scrutiny under the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment
Shaw v Reno
Which part of the Constitution has been used to most expand the power of the federal government?
Commerce Clause
What type of primary requires registration with a political party to participate?
Closed Primary
Someone arguing against the Electoral College might say...
Goes against democratic principles
Winner take all system places emphasis on swing states
By product of the racist 3/5ths clause
This argues that a free republic cannot exist in a large territory like the United States, citing examples from ancient Greece and Rome where republics became tyrannical as they expanded.
Brutus 1
In this case, justices ruled that limits on political spending by corporations and unions were a violation of the 1st Amendment's free speech clause.
Citizens United v FEC
Which powers allow both the federal and state governments to make policies involving taxation?
Concurrent Powers
Why are third parties so unsuccessful in the US political process?
General elections are based on the winner-take-all all principle
Amicus Curiae briefs are used for what purpose?
Used by special interest groups to lobby courts.
This document argues that checks and balances and the separation of powers within the government are necessary to prevent tyranny and protect liberty.
Federalist 51
In this case the Supreme Court ruled that state-sponsored prayer in public schools violates the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment, even if participation is voluntary, establishing a crucial separation between church and state in public education
Engel v Vitale
In The Federalist 78, Alexander Hamilton argued that the federal judiciary “is beyond comparison the weakest of the three departments of power.” Due to this specific check the executive branch has.
The executive branch controls the enforcement of court decisions.
A teacher who doesn't join a union but gets a salary negotiated by a union is an example of what?
Free Rider problem for special interest groups
What is the benefit of a block grant?
There are few restrictions on how the money may be used.
This document defends the judiciary's role, emphasizing its independence and power of judicial review, arguing that it is the "least dangerous" branch and crucial for protecting the Constitution from legislative overreach
Federalist 78
This case overturned the "separate but equal" doctrine established in Plessy v Ferguson
Brown v Board of Education
Article 3
What is the number one predictor of participation in congressional (aka mid-term) elections?
Socio-economic status
According to James Madison, what best controls the effects of faction?
A large republic