Fundamental Principles
The idea that citizens choose representatives to make decisions, pass laws, and govern on their behalf.
Republicanism
This proposal favored larger states by basing representation and voting power on population size.
Virginia Plan
This agreement resolved representation conflicts by creating a bicameral (two-house) Congress.
Great Compromise
The opening section outlining the overarching purpose of the Constitution, beginning with "We the People".
Preamble
Guarantees freedom of speech, press, religion, assembly, and petition.
1st Amendment
A system of government where citizens select leaders via elections to represent their interests and views.
Representative Government
This plan favored smaller states by proposing that all states have equal representation regardless of size.
New Jersey Plan
Proposed under the Virginia Plan and finalized in the Great Compromise, representation in this house is based on population.
House of Representatives
This Article defines the structure and responsibilities of Congress.
Article I
This amendment protects citizens against unreasonable searches and seizures.
4th Amendment
The division and sharing of power between national and state governments, with specific responsibilities for each level.
Federalism
A constitutional rule establishing that federal laws and the Constitution are the "highest" laws of the land.
Supremacy Clause
Derived from the New Jersey Plan, this legislative body gives equal representation to every state regardless of size.
What is the Senate
Article 3 establishes the federal judicial branch, centered on this court.
Supreme Court
While the 2nd Amendment protects the right to bear arms, this Amendment prohibits housing soldiers in private homes without consent
3rd Amendment
This group argued in favor of establishing a strong federal government.
Federalists
Supported by Anti-Federalists, this list details protected rights that cannot be taken away by the federal government.
Bill of Rights
This agreement set a formula for counting enslaved persons when calculating state representation in Congress.
Three-Fifths Compromise
Article 2 outlines the powers and structure surrounding this chief executive official.
President
Guarantees due process and protects citizens against self-incrimination and double jeopardy.
5th Amendment
This group favored a weak federal government and wanted key powers retained by states and the people.
Anti-federalists
Federalists favored this rule because it gives ultimate governing power to the federal level when state and federal laws conflict.
Supremacy Clause
Both of these essential elements—one guaranteeing national supremacy and one listing state/individual rights—were incorporated into the final Constitution.
What are the Supremacy Clause and the Bill of Rights
Article 5 outlines provisions for ________ the Constitution
Amending
Reserves all powers not delegated to the federal government to the states or the people
10th Amendment