Foundations of Democracy
Types of Democracy
Federalists vs. Anti-Federalists
Principles of Government
Federalism in Action
100

What Enlightenment idea influenced Jefferson’s writing in the Declaration of Independence?

What are natural rights?

100

Which type of democracy involves direct citizen voting on laws?

What is a participatory democracy?

100

Who wrote Federalist No. 10?

Who is James Madison?

100

Name the three branches of government.

Legislative, Executive, Judicial.

100

What clause makes the Constitution the “supreme law of the land”? 

The Supremacy Clause.

200

What is the principle that government power comes from the people?

What is Popular Sovereignty?

200

Give an example of participatory democracy in action.

What is an initiative or referendum?

200

What did Anti-Federalists fear about a strong central government?

It would trample liberties and lead to tyranny.

200

What is the purpose of separation of powers?

To divide authority so no branch becomes too powerful.

200

Which amendment reserves powers to the states?

The Tenth Amendment.

300

Name two Founding Fathers on the “Grand Committee” that wrote the Constitution.

Who are James Madison and Alexander Hamilton (also George Washington, others)?

300

Which democracy emphasizes interest groups influencing government?

What is a pluralist democracy?

300

What Foundational Document argued against ratifying the Constitution?

Brutus No. 1.

300

What is the president’s power to reject a bill called?

A veto.

300

What Supreme Court case established implied powers under the Necessary & Proper Clause?

McCulloch v. Maryland (1819).

400

Which Foundational Document provided a moral and legal justification for rebellion?

What is The Declaration of Independence?

400

Which type of democracy has elected representatives making decisions for the people?

What is an Elite Democracy?

400

What compromise helped secure ratification of the Constitution?

The Bill of Rights (first 10 amendments).

400

What can Congress do with a 2/3 vote in each house?

Override a presidential veto.

400

Which case limited Congress’s use of the Commerce Clause?

United States v. Lopez (1995).

500

What did the Articles of Confederation establish, and why was it ineffective?

What is a “League of Friendship” with a weak Congress; couldn’t tax, regulate commerce, or raise a military?

500

Which Federalist Paper argues that a large republic prevents factions from dominating?

What is Federalist No. 10?

500

What rebellion exposed the weakness of the Articles of Confederation?

Shay's Rebellion.

500

Which Foundational Document explains checks and balances?

Federalist No. 51.

500

What is the difference between categorical grants and block grants?

Categorical = specific use with strings; Block = broad use with fewer restrictions.