Foundations
What document explained why the colonies were breaking away from Britain?
Declaration of Independence
What is popular sovereignty?
The idea that power comes from the people; majority votes rule
Which branch can declare a law unconstitutional?
Judicial Branch
Who is the head of the executive branch?
The President
What system officially elects the President?
Electoral College
What did John Locke suggest the government's role is?
Protect people's natural rights
What does “separation of powers” mean?
Dividing government into 3 branches
What branch confirms presidential appointments?
Legislative
What group advises the President and runs major departments?
The Cabinet
What the NRA is an example of
Interest Groups
Who was the considered the "Father of the Constitution"?
What principle allows each branch to stop the others from becoming too powerful?
Checks and Balances
What makes up the Legislative Branch
House of Representatives and the Senate
What department enforces federal laws?
Department of Justice
to influence lawmakers decisions on policies
Lobbying
First representative government in the British Colonies
What does “federalism” mean?
Power is divided between national and state governments
What compromise created a two-house Congress?
Great Compromise
What department manages vaccines?
Department of Health & Human Services
First step in the congressional lawmaking
Bill must be introduced on the congress floor
What was the key disagreement between Federalists and Anti-Federalists?
Strong central government vs. protection of individual rights and state power
Why is the Constitution called a "living document"?
It can be changed through amendments
Who is responsible for taking over as president if the President & VP die?
Speaker of the House
What department regulates emerging technology?
Department of Commerce
How does the electoral college decide how many electoral votes a state gets?