The Framework: Preamble & Articles
What is the purpose of the Preamble of the Constitution?
The Preamble introduces the Constitution, stating the purposes of the government: to form a more perfect union, establish justice, ensure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty.
How many houses make up Congress, and what are they called?
Congress is bicameral, consisting of the House of Representatives and the Senate.
What is the main responsibility of the Executive Branch?
The Executive Branch enforces and administers the laws passed by Congress.
What does the First Amendment protect?
It protects freedom of religion, speech, press, assembly, and the right to petition the government.
Which amendment abolished slavery?
The Thirteenth Amendment (ratified in 1865) abolished slavery and involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime.
Which Article establishes the Legislative Branch?
Article I- establishes Congress as the Legislative Branch, divided into the House of Representatives and the Senate, and gives it the authority/ power to make laws.
How long is the term for a U.S. Representative?
Two-year terms.
What is the term length for a U.S. President?
The President serves a four-year term (with a maximum of two terms, per the 22nd Amendment).
Which amendment protects citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures?
The Fourth Amendment requires probable cause and a warrant for searches or seizures.
The Nineteenth Amendment gave voting rights to ___.
Women.
~Ratified in 1920, granted women suffrage.
Article V- explains how the Constitution can be amended.
~Amendments can be proposed by 2/3 of both Houses of Congress or by a national convention and must be ratified by 3/4 of the states.
Which section of Article I lists the enumerated powers of Congress?
Article I, Section 8.
~It also includes the power to tax, regulate commerce, coin money, declare war, and maintain armed forces.
The President must report to Congress on the nation's condition and recommend policies required by Article II, Section 3.
Which amendment guarantees the right to a speedy trial?
The Sixth Amendment ensures a public, speedy trial by an impartial jury and guarantees the right to counsel.
What does the Seventeenth Amendment establish?
It provides for the direct election of senators by the people rather than state legislatures.
What does the Article VI say about the "Supremacy Clause"?
The Supremacy Clause states that the Constitution, federal laws, and treaties are the supreme law of the land. (State laws cannot override them).
What is the "Elastic Clause" and why is it important?
Also known as the Necessary and Proper Clause, it gives Congress the power to make laws necessary to carry out its enumerated powers. (It allows Congress flexibility to address new issues).
How long is the term for a federal judge?
Federal judges serve for life under good behavior, ensuring judicial independence.
What does the Eighth Amendment protect?
Protects against cruel and unusual punishment, such as excessive bail and excessive fines.
What does the Twelfth Amendment change about presidential elections?
It requires electors in the Electoral College to cast separate votes for President and Vice President to avoid ties and confusion like the election of 1800.
What does Article VII explain?
Article VII outlines the ratification process of the Constitution, requiring the approval of 9/13 states for it to become effective.
What is the process called when Congress removes a President from office?
Impeachment.
~The House of Representatives can impeach the President by majority vote.
~The Senate holds the trial and can remove the President with a 2/3 vote.
What does Article IV's "Full Faith and Credit Clause" require states to do?
Ex: a marriage in one state must be recognized in all other states.
The Tenth Amendment says that the powers not given to the federal government are reserved to ____.
The states.
~ Powers not delegated to the federal government nor prohibited to the states are reserved for the states or the people.
What does the Twenty-Fifth Amendment clarify?
It outlines presidential succession and procedures for replacing the President or Vice President in cases of death, resignation, removal, or incapacity.