Category 1
What was the nation’s first constitution called?
The Articles of Confederation
What are the first ten amendments to the Constitution called?
The Bill of Rights
What is the term length for U.S. Senators?
Six years
What is the term length for members of the House of Representatives?
Two years
What principle divides power between the national and state governments?
Federalism
What is it called when the President rejects a bill passed by Congress?
A veto
According to the Declaration, where does government derive its power from?
The consent of the governed (or popular sovereignty)
Why did the Articles of Confederation fail?
The federal government was too weak to enforce laws or collect taxes
What compromise addressed how enslaved people would be counted for representation and taxation?
The Three-Fifths Compromise
What is the system called that ensures no one branch of government becomes too powerful?
Checks and Balances
What key grievance did the colonists list against King George III in the Declaration?
Taxation with Representation
What is a bicameral legislature?
A legislature with two houses or chambers
What power does the Senate have regarding presidential appointments?
To confirm or reject them
What are powers shared by both state and national governments called?
Concurrent powers
What date was the Declaration of Independence adopted?
July 4th, 1776
What does the Declaration of Independence say people have the right to do if a government becomes destructive or abuses its powers?
Alter or abolish it and institute a new government, by way of violence if necessary
What three natural rights are listed in the Declaration of Independence?
Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness
What principle of the Constitution divides government powers among branches?
Separation of Powers
What was the major difference between Federalists and Anti-Federalists during ratification debates?
Federalists supported a strong central government; Anti-Federalists favored strong state governments
What was added to the Constitution to protect individual liberties and gain support from Anti-Federalists?
The Bill of Rights
What is the name of the process by which the Constitution can be changed or updated?
The Amendment process
What principle holds that government is limited by the law and the Constitution?
Limited Government
What is the Electoral College?
The system used to formally elect the President and Vice President of the United States
Why do some people criticize the Electoral College system?
Because it can allow a candidate to win the presidency without winning the popular vote
What does the phrase “swing state” or “battleground state” mean?
A state where either major party candidate has a chance to win, making it highly contested