Constitution Basics
What is the formal introduction to the Constitution called?
The Preamble
What term describes a government divided into legislative, executive, and judicial branches?
Separation of Powers
What is the constitutional power that allows the President to reject a bill passed by Congress?
Veto Power
Which amendment protects freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly?
First Amendment
What is the count of the population called?
Census
What are the first ten amendments to the Constitution called?
The Bill of Rights
What system allows each branch to limit the powers of the others?
Checks and Balances
Which branch has the power to confirm presidential appointments and ratify treaties?
The Senate
Which amendment protects the right to bear arms?
Second Amendment
What was the last of the original 13 states to ratify the Constitution?
Georgia
How many total amendments does the U.S. Constitution have?
27
What clause gives Congress the power to make laws necessary to carry out its duties?
Elastic Clause / Necessary and Proper Clause
What check does the Judicial Branch have on the other two branches?
It can declare laws or executive actions unconstitutional (judicial review)
What amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures?
Fourth Amendment
What is the process called when a criminal is returned to the state where a crime was committed?
Extradition
What is the name for the formal approval process of an amendment?
Ratification
What principle divides power between the national and state governments?
Federalism
How can Congress limit the President’s power even after he vetoes a bill?
By overriding the veto with a two-thirds vote in both houses
Which amendments protect the rights of the accused?
Fifth through Eighth Amendments
What is the name of the daily written record of what Congress does?
What fraction of the states must approve an amendment for it to become law?
What is the idea that the people are the ultimate source of the government’s
Popular sovereignty
Explain how the process of impeachment demonstrates checks and balances between the legislative and executive branches.
The House of Representatives impeaches (accuses), and the Senate holds the trial and can remove the President
Which two amendments protect the powers of the people and the states?
Ninth and Tenth Amendments
Which of the original 13 states refused to send delegates to the Constitutional Convention?
Rhode Island