Declaration of Independence
This 1776 document announced the colonies’ separation from Britain.
What is the Declaration of Independence?
This was the first constitution of the United States.
What are the Articles of Confederation?
This 1787 document replaced the Articles of Confederation.
This 1787 document replaced the Articles of Confederation.
This Federalist Paper, written by Alexander Hamilton, addresses the role of this branch of government.
What is the judicial branch?
Written by Alexander Hamilton, Federalist No. 70 argues in favor of this type of executive.
What is a single, strong president?
He is credited as the primary author of the Declaration of Independence.
Who is Thomas Jefferson?
Under the Articles, the central government lacked this power, which led to economic and political problems.
What is the power to tax or regulate commerce?
This principle divides power among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
What is separation of powers?
Hamilton argued that this branch would be the “least dangerous” because it has no control over these two things.
What are the purse (taxes/spending) and the sword (military)?
Hamilton warned that a weak or plural executive would lead to this problem in enforcing laws.
What is inefficiency or lack of accountability?
The Declaration famously states that all men are endowed with these three unalienable rights.
What are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness?
Each state had this level of voting power under the Articles.
What is one vote per state?
The first ten amendments to the Constitution are called this.
What is the Bill of Rights?
This principle allows the courts to invalidate laws that conflict with the Constitution.
What is judicial review?
According to Federalist No. 70, an energetic executive is essential for this function, particularly in emergencies.
What is protecting the nation or providing security?
This phrase describes the right of the people to change or abolish a government that becomes destructive.
What is the right of revolution?
The weak central government made it difficult to raise this for national defense.
What is an army or military?
This compromise created a bicameral legislature with representation by population and by state.
What is the Great Compromise (Connecticut Compromise)?
Hamilton emphasized that judges must have this type of tenure to remain independent.
What is lifetime appointments or serving during good behavior?
This quality ensures the president can act decisively and with responsibility.
What is unity or accountability?
The Declaration lists grievances against this king of Britain.
Who is King George III?
Shays’ Rebellion highlighted the weaknesses of this government framework.
What are the Articles of Confederation?
This process allows the Constitution to be formally changed.
What is an amendment?
Federalist No. 78 argued that this branch acts as a check on the legislature by protecting this.
What is the Constitution or individual rights?
Hamilton claimed that this aspect of the executive protects liberty by making the president accountable to the people.
What is responsibility or being subject to elections?