Foundations of the Constitution
What was the first plan of government for the United States before the Constitution was written?
The Articles of Confederation
What principle states that government power comes from the consent of the governed?
Popular Sovereignty
What are the two houses of Congress called?
The Senate and the House of Representatives
What is the main responsibility of the executive branch?
To enforce laws
What is the highest court in the United States?
Supreme Court
What event showed the weakness of the Articles of Confederation and helped lead to the Constitutional Convention?
Shay's Rebellion
What principle divides power between the national and state governments
Federalism
How many Senators does each state have?
2
Who elects the President of the United States?
Electoral College
What is the main job of the judicial branch?
To interpret laws and ensure they are constitutional
What compromise decided how enslaved people would be counted for representation and taxation?
The Three-Fifths Compromise
What is the term for each branch of government having powers to limit the others?
Checks and Balances
What is the term used to describe a two house legislature?
Bicameral
What is it called when the President rejects a bill passed by Congress?
A veto
Which Supreme Court case established the power of judicial review?
Marbury v. Madison, 1803
What group supported ratifying the Constitution, believing in a strong central government?
The Federalists
What principle separates the government into three branches — legislative, executive, and judicial?
Separation of Powers
These powers are not expressly written in the Constitution, but it seen as necessary powers for Congress to carry out its expressed powers
Implied powers
What part of the Constitution describes the powers of the President?
Article II
What part of the Constitution gives the Supreme Court its authority
Article III
What key issue did the Great Compromise resolve at the Constitutional Convention?
Representation in Congress — created a bicameral legislature
Which clause in the Constitution allows Congress to make laws “necessary and proper” to carry out its powers
The Elastic Clause or Necessary and Proper Clause
How many members are in the House of Representatives?
435
Name at least THREE roles the President has
Commander in Chief, Chief of Political Party, Chief Executive, Chief Lawmaker, Chief of State, Chief Diplomat, Chief Guardian of the Economy
How can the Supreme Court check the power of Congress?
Declaring a law unconstitutional