All Flashcards
Define Federalists.
Supporters of the proposed U.S. Constitution.
Define Anti-Federalists.
Opponents of the proposed U.S. Constitution.
Define bicameral legislature.
A legislature with two chambers or houses.
Define the Electoral College.
System where electors vote for the President.
Define federalism.
Division of power between national and state governments.
Define ratification.
The act of officially approving a treaty, constitutional amendment, or agreement.
What is an amendment?
A formal or official change made to a law, contract, constitution, or other legal document.
Define popular vote.
The total number of votes cast by individual voters in a presidential election.
What is representation?
The action of speaking or acting on behalf of someone or the state of being so represented.
What is a compromise?
An agreement or settlement of a dispute that is reached by each side making concessions.
Role of the House of Representatives?
Representation based on population.
Role of the Senate?
Equal representation (two senators per state).
Role of the Electoral College?
Elects the President of the United States.
Role of the Supreme Court?
Interprets the Constitution and federal laws.
What is the role of Congress?
To make laws.
What is the role of the President?
To enforce laws.
What is the role of state governments?
To govern within their respective states.
What is the role of political parties?
To nominate candidates and influence policy.
What is the role of interest groups?
To advocate for specific interests in government.
What is the role of the media?
To inform the public and hold government accountable.
Federalists vs. Anti-Federalists?
Federalists: favored strong central government | Anti-Federalists: favored states' rights.
Large states vs. Small states (representation)?
Large states: representation based on population | Small states: equal representation for each state.
Northern states vs. Southern states (slavery)?
Northern states: opposed slavery | Southern states: supported slavery.
What are the differences between the House and the Senate?
House: Representation based on population | Senate: Equal representation (two senators per state).
What are the differences between the federal government and state governments?
Federal government: National level, broad powers | State governments: Regional level, specific powers.
What are the differences between direct democracy and representative democracy?
Direct democracy: Citizens vote directly on policies | Representative democracy: Citizens elect representatives to make decisions.
What are the differences between civil liberties and civil rights?
Civil liberties: Basic freedoms protected from government interference | Civil rights: Protections against discrimination.
What are the differences between enumerated powers and implied powers?
Enumerated powers: Powers specifically listed in the Constitution | Implied powers: Powers not explicitly listed but necessary to carry out enumerated powers.
What are the differences between strict constructionism and loose constructionism?
Strict constructionism: Interpreting the Constitution literally | Loose constructionism: Interpreting the Constitution flexibly.
What are the differences between unitary system and federal system?
Unitary system: Central government holds all power | Federal system: Power is divided between national and state governments.