AP US Government Vocabulary

A collection of key terms and their definitions relevant to AP US Government, aiding in exam preparation.

The Declaration of Independence

Drafted by Jefferson, it set the foundation of sovereignty for the U.S. Constitution.

Articles of Confederation

Demonstrated that a weak government makes it less efficient and unable to settle disputes.

Checks and Balances

Limits to each government branch as explained by Federalist no. 51.

Great Compromise

Also known as the Connecticut Compromise, it created a bicameral structure in Congress.

Electoral College

Compromise to determine how Presidents are elected, requiring a majority of votes.

Three-Fifths Compromise

Agreement on how slaves should be counted for representation and taxation.

Enumerated Powers

Specific powers granted to Congress, including declaring war and passing federal budgets.

Simple Majority

The minimum number of votes needed to pass legislation, requiring more than half.

Supermajority

A higher threshold of votes, such as two-thirds, needed for certain decisions like amendments.

Filibuster

A tactic to delay or prevent legislation from passing, which can be ended by cloture.

Pork-barrel Spending

Government spending for localized projects secured primarily to bring money to a representative's district.

Federalist no. 10

Madison's argument for a strong central government to control factions.

Judicial Review

The power of the judicial branch to review legislation and ensure it complies with the Constitution.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments of the Constitution guaranteeing individual rights and liberties.

Due Process Clause

A constitutional guarantee that governments will not take away individuals' rights without proper legal procedures.

Miranda Clause

The requirement for police to inform individuals of their rights before questioning.

Political Socialization

The process by which individuals acquire their political values and beliefs.

Political Efficacy

An individual's belief that they can influence political outcomes.

Caucuses

Meetings among party members to draft platforms and nominate candidates.

McCulloch v. Maryland

Supreme Court case that affirmed the supremacy of federal law.

Roe v. Wade

Supreme Court decision that established the right of privacy includes the right to abortion.

Brown v. Board of Education

Supreme Court case that determined school segregation violates the equal protection clause.

Citizens United v. FEC

Supreme Court case that ruled political spending by corporations is protected under free speech.