Enlightenment & Colonial Influences
Which Enlightenment thinker believed people have natural rights such as life, liberty, and property?
John Locke
What document declared the American colonies independent from Britain?
Declaration of Independence
What principle divides government power among legislative, executive, and judicial branches?
Separation of powers
Which branch of government makes laws?
Legislative branch
Which amendment protects freedom of speech, religion, press, and assembly?
1st Amendment
What document established the idea of limited government and trial by jury in England?
Magna Carta
What was the first constitution of the United States that created a weak national government?
Articles of Confederation
What system allows each branch of government to limit the powers of the others?
Checks and balances
Who leads the executive branch?
The President
Which amendment protects citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures?
4th Amendment
What agreement created a self-government for the Plymouth Colony?
Mayflower Compact
What event showed the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?
Shays’ Rebellion
What clause establishes that federal law is the supreme law of the land?
Supremacy Clause
Which branch interprets the law?
Judicial branch
Which amendment abolished slavery?
13th Amendment
What Enlightenment idea states that government gets its power from the people? (People Rule)
Popular sovereignty
What meeting was held in Philadelphia to revise the Articles but ended up writing a new Constitution?
Constitutional Convention
What constitutional principle states that everyone, including government leaders, must obey the law?
Rule of Law
What is the name of the highest court in the United States?
Supreme Court
Which amendment guarantees equal protection under the law?
14th Amendment
What theory says people agree to follow laws in exchange for protection of their rights?
Social Contract
What group of writings helped persuade states to ratify the Constitution?
Federalist Papers
Which clause allows Congress to stretch its powers to pass laws necessary to carry out its duties?
Elastic Clause
What congressional body has the power to impeach officials?
House of Representatives
Which amendment lowered the voting age to 18?
26th Amendment