Founding Ideas
According to John Locke, what is the main purpose of government?
To protect life, liberty, and property
What was the first plan of government for the U.S.?
The Articles of Confederation
Where did the Constitutional Convention take place?
Philadelphia
What system allows each branch to limit the others?
Checks and Balances
Who wrote most of the Federalist Papers?
Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay
What does “consent of the governed” mean?
The government’s power comes from the people
Which branch of government did not exist under the Articles?
Executive Branch
How many states sent delegates to the Convention?
Twelve
What was the purpose of separating powers?
To prevent tyranny from the majority.
What was the purpose of the Bill of Rights?
To protect individual liberties and satisfy Anti-Federalists.
Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?
Thomas Jefferson
Why was Shays’ Rebellion significant?
It showed the weakness of the Articles of Confederation.
What was the Great Compromise?
A combination of the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan.
Which right was not included in the original Constitution?
Freedom of speech.
How many states were needed to ratify the Constitution?
Nine.
Which philosopher most influenced the Declaration?
John Locke
How many states were required to pass major laws under the Articles?
Nine
What did the Three-Fifths Compromise determine?
Slaves would count as 3/5 of a person for representation and taxation
What are two informal ways the Constitution can change?
Judicial interpretation and political practice.
Which group supported a strong national government?
Federalists.
What document announced the colonies’ break from Britain?
The Declaration of Independence
What was a major economic problem under the Articles?
Congress couldn't tax or regulate trade.
What assumption did the framers have about human nature?
People are self interested and power must be balanced.
What are two protections found in the Constitution?
No ex post facto laws and habeas corpus.
What Supreme Court case established judicial review?
Marbury vs. Madison