All Flashcards
Main ideas of Articles of Confederation?
First US government, too weak and ineffective.
Main ideas of the Constitution?
Supreme law, establishes federal government structure and powers.
Main ideas of the Bill of Rights?
First ten amendments, protects individual rights and liberties.
What is the Necessary and Proper Clause?
Congress can make laws needed to execute its powers.
What is the Commerce Clause?
Congress can regulate commerce between states and with foreign nations.
Brutus No. 1 main argument?
Argues against the Constitution, fearing tyranny.
Federalist No. 10 main argument?
Strong central government needed to control factions.
Federalist No. 51 main argument?
Advocates for separation of powers and checks and balances.
What is the main theme of the Federalist Papers?
Arguments supporting the ratification of the US Constitution.
What is the significance of the Supremacy Clause?
Establishes the Constitution and federal laws as the supreme law of the land.
Role of the Legislative Branch?
Makes laws, Congress (Senate and House).
Role of the Executive Branch?
Enforces laws, President.
Role of the Judicial Branch?
Interprets laws, Supreme Court.
Role of the Supreme Court?
Final interpreter of the Constitution, judicial review.
Role of the Electoral College?
Elects the President, based on state representation.
Role of regulatory agencies?
Enforce regulations and implement policies.
Role of the Federal Reserve?
Manages monetary policy and regulates banks.
Role of Congressional committees?
Review and report on legislation.
Role of interest groups?
Advocate for specific policies and influence government.
Role of political parties?
Organize and mobilize voters, nominate candidates.
Differences between enumerated and implied powers?
Enumerated: Specifically listed powers. Implied: Necessary to carry out enumerated.
Differences between Federalists and Anti-Federalists?
Federalists: Supported Constitution. Anti-Federalists: Feared strong central government.
Differences between separation of powers and checks and balances?
Separation: Divides power. Checks: Limits power of each branch.
Differences between a unitary and federal system?
Unitary: Centralized power. Federal: Divided power between national and state.
Differences between delegated and reserved powers?
Delegated: Powers given to the federal government. Reserved: Powers kept by the states.
Differences between direct and representative democracy?
Direct: Citizens vote on policies directly. Representative: Citizens elect representatives.
Differences between civil liberties and civil rights?
Liberties: Protections from government. Rights: Equal protection under the law.
Differences between strict and broad constructionism?
Strict: Literal interpretation of the Constitution. Broad: Flexible interpretation.
Differences between block and categorical grants?
Block: States have broad discretion. Categorical: Specific purpose grants.
Differences between dual and cooperative federalism?
Dual: Clear division of powers. Cooperative: Shared powers and collaboration.