APGOV notes

What were the main weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?

The Articles of Confederation created a weak national government that lacked authority to impose taxes or regulate trade, leading to economic instability.

What is the principle of federalism?

Federalism is a system of governance in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, such as states.

What are Enumerated Powers?

Enumerated Powers are those specifically granted to the federal government by the Constitution, such as the powers to tax, regulate commerce, and declare war.

What is the primary purpose of the Bill of Rights?

The Bill of Rights was added to the Constitution to protect individual liberties against government overreach and address Anti-Federalist concerns.

What is the Electoral College?

The Electoral College is the system used to elect the U.S. president and vice president, consisting of 538 electors.

What are some of the checks the Legislative Branch has over the Executive Branch?

The Legislative Branch can override presidential vetoes, approve or reject presidential appointments, and impeach the president.

What is gerrymandering?

Gerrymandering is the manipulation of electoral district boundaries to favor a particular political party or group.

What does 'separation of powers' mean?

Separation of powers divides government responsibilities among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches to avoid concentration of power.

What are the three formal powers of the Executive Branch?

The Executive Branch has the authority to enforce laws, negotiate treaties (subject to Senate approval), and appoint federal officials.

What effect did Shay's Rebellion have on the Articles of Confederation?

Shay's Rebellion exposed the weaknesses of the Articles, demonstrating the need for a stronger central government, leading to the Constitutional Convention.

What is the main method today for Presidential candidates to win their party's nomination?

Presidential candidates primarily win their party's nomination through primary elections and caucuses.

What are checks and balances?

Checks and balances refer to the system that ensures no single branch of government becomes too powerful by allowing each branch to limit the powers of the others.

Who were the Federalists and what did they advocate for?

The Federalists supported the ratification of the Constitution, believing a stronger central government was necessary for order and stability.

What is redistricting?

Redistricting is the process of redrawing electoral district boundaries, particularly for the U.S. House of Representatives, after reapportionment.

What is the most important factor in political participation?

The most important factor in political participation is socioeconomic status, including income, education, and occupation.

Who wrote Federalist No. 78 and what did it address?

Federalist No. 78 was written by Alexander Hamilton, and it addressed the role of the judiciary and the power of judicial review.

What were the main arguments of the Anti-Federalists?

The Anti-Federalists opposed the Constitution, fearing a strong central government would threaten individual liberties and state powers.