The Constitution & Founding Documents
This 1787 document replaced the Articles of Confederation and established the framework for the U.S. government with separation of powers.
The Constitution
This amendment guarantees the right to vote regardless of race, color, or previous condition of servitude.
15th amendment
Series of laws allowing gov't to detain or deport non citizens and also criminalize criticism of the gov't. They arguably infringe upon speech and press, contributing to 1st amendment protections.
Alien and Sedition Acts (1798)
Presidential War Powers
Advocated for separation of powers to prevent centralized authority. Shown in the distinct roles of the 3 branches of gov't (Legislative, Executive, Judicial)
Checks & Balances
These first ten amendments to the Constitution, ratified in 1791, protect individual liberties such as speech, religion, and due process.
The Bill of Rights
This amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects the freedoms of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition.
1st Amendment
Mandated gov't jobs be awarded based on qualifications and performance, than the spoils system based on patronage and lineage. Increased efficiency in gov't.
Pendleton Act of 1883
During times of crisis or war, presidents suspend this policy to detain individuals without a trial.
Habeas Corpus
Refers to fair treatment during legal proceedings. Guarantees individuals entitled to certain legal procedures and protections.
Due Process
This 1776 document lists grievances against the king, asserts natural rights, and declares independence from Britain.
The Declaration of Independence
This amendment granted women the right to vote nationwide. Result of the fight for women's suffrage
19th Amendment
Passed after 9/11. Expanded gov't surveillance powers to counter terrorism. Critics argued it encroached upon individual privacy rights.
Patriot Act of 2001
Refers to the president's use of his/her position to advocate for policies, reforms, and programs. FDR's New Deal policies are the best example of this, as is Obamacare
The Bully Pulpit
Asserts that the ultimate source of authority lies with the people. The concept of self-governance
Popular Sovereignty
This served as a model for other states constitutions and the US Constitution. Includes the separation of powers and the bill of rights.
Constitution of Massachusetts
This is the legal process by which immigrants become U.S. citizens, including passing a civics test on American government and history.
Naturalization
These programs led by FDR during the Great Depression sought to stimulate the economy and create jobs. It's lasting effect includes the Social Security Act, and the expansion of social programs in the US
New Deal Acts
Land acquisition from France, doubling the size of the US. Includes parts of 15 present day states, opening up westward expansion.
Louisiana Purchase of 1803
The founders believed these are inherent to all individuals, such as life, liberty, and property. Also referred to as "unalienable rights"
Natural Rights (Natural Law)
This essay by Madison argues that a large republic best controls the dangers of factions.
Federalist No. 10
This amendment, ratified in 1868, granted citizenship to anyone born or naturalized in the United States, and guarantees due process and equal protection under the law.
14th amendment
Repealed Missouri Compromise prohibition of slavery about the 36-30 parallel and allowed popular sovereignty to determine slavery's status in the Kansas and Nebraska territory. Led to intense conflict (Bleeding Kansas)
Kansas - Nebraska Act of 1854
Ended the Spanish American war in 1898, ceded several territories to the US including Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines
Treaty of Paris 1898
The US operates as this, meaning elected representatives govern according to the Constitution's framework
Constitutional Republic