Constitution & Founding Principles
This phrase in the Preamble signals that the Constitution aims to improve upon the Articles of Confederation.
"A more perfect union".
This amendment protects citizens from unreasonable searches.
The Fourth Amendment.
This title is held by the leader of the House of Representatives.
Speaker of the House.
This is the system in which states and the federal government share power.
Federalism.
This power allows the Supreme Court to strike down unconstitutional laws.
Judicial review.
This constitutional principle divides government into three branches, preventing power concentration.
Separation of powers.
This landmark case ruled that students do not “shed their rights at the schoolhouse gate.”
Tinker v. Des Moines.
This congressional leader’s job is to count votes and encourage party discipline.
Whip.
This founding compromise created a bicameral Congress with one house by population and one with equal state representation.
The Great Compromise.
This test allows the government to limit speech only when it poses an immediate threat.
The clear and present danger test.
This clause gives Congress flexibility to pass laws needed to execute its enumerated powers.
The Necessary and Proper Clause.
This rule prevents courts from using evidence obtained in violation of constitutional protections.
The exclusionary rule.
This term refers to congressional monitoring of executive agencies to ensure they follow the law.
Oversight.
This process reallocates House seats after each census based on changes in population.
Apportionment.
This long-term process shapes citizens’ political attitudes, often through family, school, and media.
Political socialization.
This Supreme Court case established that states cannot tax the national bank, strengthening federal supremacy.
McCulloch v. Maryland.
This decision overturned Plessy v. Ferguson by declaring segregated schools unconstitutional.
Brown v. Board of Education.
This type of grant gives states flexibility in how federal money is spent.
A block grant.
This describes when electoral district lines are redrawn to favor a political party.
Gerrymandering.
These organizations raise and donate money to political candidates who support their goals.
PACs (political action committees).
This 1868 amendment guarantees due process and equal protection, heavily shaping civil liberties debates today.
The 14th Amendment.
This warning, required by a 1966 Supreme Court case, informs suspects of their rights during arrest.
Answer: What are Miranda Rights?
Miranda Rights
This legislative tactic allows Senators to prolong debate in order to delay or block voting on a bill.
Filibuster.
This controversial feature of U.S. presidential elections can result in a candidate winning without the popular vote.
The Electoral College.
This term describes justices who interpret the Constitution in light of modern conditions, going beyond literal text.
Judicial activism.