The Bill of Rights
What is the purpose of the Bill of Rights?
To protect individual freedoms and limit government power.
Which Enlightenment thinker promoted the idea of natural rights?
John Locke.
What are the three branches of government?
Executive, Legislative, Judicial.
What is federalism?
Federalism is the division of power between national and state governments.
This group supported a strong national government under the Constitution.
Which amendment protects freedom of speech?
The First Amendment.
Which thinker introduced the concept of separation of powers?
Montesquieu.
Which branch enforces laws?
The Executive Branch.
What are enumerated powers?
Powers specifically granted to the federal government (e.g., regulating commerce, declaring war).
What are the Federalist Papers?
A collection of 85 essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay to persuade citizens to ratify the newly proposed United States Constitution.
Name one protection provided by the Fourth Amendment.
Protection against unreasonable searches and seizures.
How did John Locke’s ideas influence the U.S. Constitution?
John Locke's ideas of natural rights (life, liberty, and property) influenced the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.
Which branch interprets the law?
The Judicial Branch.
What are reserved powers?
Powers reserved for the states (e.g., education, local law enforcement).
This type of power is shared by both the federal government and state governments, such as the power to tax and enforce laws.
Concurrent Power
Which amendment guarantees the right to a speedy and public trial?
The Sixth Amendment.
How did Montesquieu’s ideas impact the structure of the U.S. government?
Montesquieu's idea of separation of powers influenced the three branches of the U.S. government (executive, legislative, judicial).
How does the system of checks and balances prevent any branch from becoming too powerful?
Each branch has the power to limit the actions of the other branches (e.g., veto power, judicial review)
How does federalism balance power between national and state governments?
It divides power between the national and state governments, ensuring that neither can dominate completely.
What did the founding fathers write to end their relationship with Great Britian
The Declaration of Independence
What protection does the Eighth Amendment provide?
Protection against cruel and unusual punishment.
Which Enlightenment thinker argued that humans are naturally self-interested?
Thomas Hobbes argued that humans are naturally self-interested and require a strong government to maintain order.
Give an example of how the judiciary can check the power of the executive branch.
The judiciary can declare executive actions unconstitutional.
What is a PRO OR CON of Federalism?
Pro of Federalism
Allows states to address local needs and preferences instead of having one national policy for everyone
Limits the power of the national government by dividing authority
Encourages policy experimentation at the state level
Con of Federalism
Can lead to unequal rights or services depending on the state you live in
Creates confusion when state and federal laws conflict
Makes national responses to crises slower or less consistent
Which document supports self-government:
Mayflower compact