The Basics/Structure
True or False: The Constitution is a fairly lengthy document.
False. It is only 7,500 words
Vocab: The division between state & local gov.
Federalism
How does Mass Media affect the Constitution?
In a dispute between National Gov and state Gov, who would prevail?
National Gov due to Supremacy Clause
Vocab: denied powers
ex: US cannot tax exports
Prohibited Powers
What is the purpose statement of the Constitution called?
The Preamble
Vocab: 3 strong, independent branches
Separation of Powers
How do Political Parties affect the Constitution?
Parties influence law through their platforms, ideology and how they vote.
What Amendment gives states power?
10
Vocab: Powers held by states alone
Ex: Education, speed limits, hunting license
Reserved
What do Articles I, II, III set up?
The Three Branches of Government
Vocab: each branch “checks” the others so one does not gain too much power.
Checks & Balances
What does the Judiciary Act of 1789 do?
Congress establishes a system of courts under the Supreme Court.
What is modern (Marble Cake) Federalism called?
Cooperative Federalism
Vocab: powers shared by the National & State Govt.
Examples: levying taxes & separate court systems
Concurrent
Article IV sets up the relationship between the National Government and the States. What is this called?
Federalism
Vocab: Supreme Court can declare acts of Congress/Pres null and void, or “unconstitutional”.
Judicial Review
What Court Case established Judicial Review?
Marbury v. Madison, 1803
What is one Advantage of Federalism:
Federalism allows for experimentation/diversity
What is an example of "delegated powers" (Those that are those expressly or directly granted by the U.S. Government)
War Powers, Power to Regulate Interstate Commerce, Power to Tax & Spend
What Article of the Constitution sets up the Supremacy Clause?
VI (6)
Vocab: no one is above the law; equally applied.
Rule of Law
What is the most common way to amend the Const?
2/3 approval of proposal by Congress
3/4 Ratification by States
It decentralizes power
What is the difference between strict & loose interpretation of the Const?
Strict Construction: A CONSERVATIVE, literal, word by word interpretation of what the Const should mean. WWFFD? (What would the Founding Fathers Do?)
Loose Construction: A LIBERAL, adaptive to the times approach. This means that times change and so should the Constitution.