Foundations of Government
Government gets its power from the people.
What is the supreme law of the land in the United States?
The Constitution
Which branch makes federal laws?
Legislative
What are the five freedoms protected by the First Amendment?
Religion, assembly, press, petition, and speech.
What does the judicial branch do?
Interprets laws and decides court cases.
What is the social contract?
An agreement where people give up some freedom in exchange for government protection of rights and safety.
What was America's first plan of government called?
The Articles of Confederation
What are the two chambers of Congress?
House of Representatives & Senate
Which amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures?
The 4th Amendment.
What is a precedent?
A court decision that guides future similar cases.
Explain what rule of law means
Everyone must follow the law, including government leaders.
Which amendment defines citizenship in the United States?
The 14th amendment
House of Representatives
Which amendment protects against self-incrimination, or “pleading the Fifth”?
The 5th Amendment.
Who brings charges against the accused in a criminal case?
The prosecutor.
What three rights are listed in the Declaration of Independence?
Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness
Which group wanted the Bill of Rights added to the Constitution?
The Anti-Federalists
How many electoral votes are needed to win the presidency?
270
Which amendment gave women the right to vote?
The 19th Amendment.
What does a grand jury decide?
Whether there is enough evidence to indict someone.
Which purpose of government includes police, laws, and keeping peace in society?
Maintaining order
What issue did the Three-Fifths Compromise settle?
How enslaved people would be counted for representation in Congress.
What happens if no candidate wins the majority in the Electoral College?
The House of Representatives chooses the president.
Which amendment lowered the voting age to 18?
The 26th Amendment.
What is the standard of proof needed to convict someone in a criminal trial?
Beyond a reasonable doubt