The Articles
Who held more power under the Articles of Confederation - states or federal government?
States
The most important responsibility of this branch of government
To make laws
(Declare War)
Article II deals with the Executive Branch. Name three offices that make up this branch.
President, Vice President, Cabinet
4 year term - only 2 terms.
How many justices are on the Supreme Court
9
What was the governing body under the Articles?
Congress - (No Executive or Judicial Branches)
This compromise was made between the Small States and the Large States to determine how voting would work in Congress.
The Great Compromise - Created a two-part legislature
The Senate - Equal votes per state
The House of Representatives - Votes based on population.
How can Congress override a Presidental Veto?
By 2/3rds majority in Congress (Both House and Senate - which is really hard to do)
Name three Executive powers/responsibilities
Sign bills into law
Commander in chief of the military
Nominates Supreme Court Justices, federal judges, and Cabinet members
Negotiates Treaties
Grants pardons
Suggests ideas for new laws.
How long can a justice serve once confirmed by the Senate?
For life
How many states had to agree to pass a law?
9 out of 13
Who was considered the Father of the Constitution?
James Madison
What are a few things that a Senator can do that a Representative in the House can't do
Senators confirm presidential treaties (2/3) and appointments (Supreme Court Justices and Cabinet Members)
How is the President's power limited?
Senate must confirm his appointments
Senate must confirm his treaties
President can be impeached
What is the main responsibility of the Supreme Court
Review cases to determine whether laws violate the Constitution.
Why did the Articles not include a President of Chief Executive?
They feared a strong central government and having another King George III.
These two branches were added to the Constitution during the Convention
Executive and Judical
6 years
(Remember: Each States has 2 senators for 100 total)
How old must a President be to run for office?
35 years old
Born in the US and a resident for the past 14 years.
It can review a treaty and declare it unconstiutional
What were three problems with the Articles of Confederation?
- No President
- No National Court
- No Way to Amend the Constitution
Why was secrecy so important during the Constitutional Convention?
They wanted the freedom to share ideas and change their minds.
What type of bill has to begin the House of Representatives before it goes to the Senate?
Can you explain why?
Bills that deal with raising revenue (money) begin in the House.
This is because the House is more democratic. The representatives in the House are re-elected every two years and they are more closely tied to an area. (Example: West Los Angeles v. all of California)
How many women currently serve on the Supreme Court
4: Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan, Amy Coney Barrett, and Ketanji Brown Jackson
What is the title of the leader of the Supreme Court
The Chief Justice
(John Roberts is the current Chief Justice)