All Flashcards
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.
What is Federalism?
Division of power between national and state governments.
Define Enumerated Powers.
Specifically listed powers of the federal government.
Define Implied Powers.
Powers not explicitly listed but necessary to carry out enumerated powers.
What are Concurrent Powers?
Powers shared by both national and state governments.
What are Natural Rights?
Inherent rights like life, liberty, and property.
Define Limited Government.
Government power restricted by laws and the constitution.
What is Social Contract?
People give up some freedoms for government protection.
Define Checks and Balances.
Each branch can limit the power of the others.
Define Separation of Powers.
Power is divided among the three branches.
What is Judicial Review?
Courts can interpret laws and determine constitutionality.
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.