Founding Principles
What key philosophical concepts does the Declaration of Independence emphasize?
Natural rights, popular sovereignty, social contract
What was added to the Constitution to protect individual liberties?
Bill of Rights
What term describes the increasing ideological divide between parties?
Party polarization
What landmark case declared segregation in public schools unconstitutional?
Brown v. Board
Where does most of the work in Congress take place?
Standing committees
What constitutional feature prevents indefinite detention without trial?
Writ of habeas corpus
What type of law cannot punish actions that were legal when committed?
Ex post facto laws
What type of states do candidates focus on during elections?
Swing states
What case established limits on free speech during wartime?
Schenck v. U.S.
Which chamber has the power to initiate tax bills?
House of Representatives
What powers does Congress have to promote safety and order?
Congress can tax and raise an army
What system divides power between national and state governments?
Federalism
What Senate tactic can delay legislation by prolonging debate?
Filibuster
What amendment's due process clause has been used to expand individual liberties?
14th Amendment
What system prevents any one branch of government from becoming too powerful?
Checks and balances
What two structures help protect individual rights in the U.S. government?
Federalism and separation of powers
What power allows courts to strike down unconstitutional laws?
Judicial review
What entities can influence elections and policy making?
Interest groups
What term describes judges who interpret the Constitution broadly?
Judicial activism
What can the president issue to bypass Congress?
Executive orders
What clause has been criticized for expanding congressional power?
Necessary and proper clause
What clause asserts federal law takes precedence over state law?
Supremacy clause
What system can allow a candidate to win the presidency without the popular vote?
Electoral College
What legislation was a major victory for the Civil Rights Movement?
Civil Rights Act of 1964
What allows agencies to operate with a degree of autonomy from political influence?
Bureaucratic independence