Foundational Documents & Principles
The first plan for the U.S. government, which had a weak central government.
A protest by farmers that showed the government under the Articles was too weak.
What was Shays’ Rebellion?
The plan for how the U.S. government works, with three branches of government.
What is the US Constitution?
The first 10 amendments to the Constitution.
What is the Bill of Rights?
By passing a test on U.S. history and government and taking an oath of allegiance.
How does someone become an American citizen?
A document from England that limited the king's power and introduced the idea of rights.
What is the Magna Carta?
A meeting where leaders created a new plan for the U.S. government (the Constitution).
What was the Constitutional Convention?
Dividing government into three parts so no one part has too much power.
What is separation of powers?
Freedom of speech, religion, the press, assembly, and petition.
What freedoms are protected by the First Amendment?
Voting allows people to choose leaders and make decisions for the common good.
Why is voting important?
A belief that citizens should work together to help their government and community.
What is civic republicanism?
Favored by small states, it called for one house of Congress with equal representation for each state.
What was the New Jersey Plan?
A system where power is shared between the national and state governments.
What is federalism?
The introduction to the Constitution that explains the goals of the government.
What is the Preamble?
A citizen's duty to follow laws, pay taxes, and serve on a jury is part of what responsibility?
What is being a good citizen?
The belief that all people have natural rights to life, liberty, and property.
What were John Locke’s Enlightenment ideas?
A plan for Congress with two houses: one based on population and one with equal state votes.
What was the Great Compromise?
A way to add or change the Constitution, requiring 2/3 Congress and 3/4 state approval.
What is the amendment process?
When is election day?
This type of action, where citizens participate in activities such as voting, attending town meetings, or volunteering, is called what?
What is civic engagement?
Name the strengths and weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?
Strength: It set up rules for new states in Western lands.
Weaknesses: Could not tax or enforce laws.
A rule that counted enslaved people as 3/5 of a person for taxes and representation.
What was the 3/5 Compromise?
Name the roles of each branch of government.
What freedoms are protected by the First Amendment?
Freedom of religion, speech, and the press
- allows individuals to have a voice in government
- choose leaders who represent their values
- influence decisions that affect their community
- contribute to the common good
- hold leaders accountable
- maintain a functioning democracy
- empower individuals to make a difference in their country
Why is voting important?