U.S. Constitution and Federalism Review

Flashcards based on lecture notes about the U.S. Constitution and Federalism.

What are the three branches of the U.S. government?

Legislative (Congress), Executive (President), and Judicial (Supreme Court)

What is separation of powers?

Each branch of government (executive, legislative, and judicial) has different responsibilities.

What is the supreme law of the United States?

The U.S. Constitution, written in 1787.

What does the U.S. Constitution outline?

How the government works and defines the rights of citizens.

How does the U.S. Constitution create a federal system?

By reserving certain powers to the states

What is the Bill of Rights?

The first 10 amendments to the Constitution, protecting freedoms (e.g., speech, religion, fair trial).

What is 'checks and balances'?

Each branch can limit the power of the others (e.g., President can veto laws; Congress can impeach the President).

What is U.S. Federalism?

Power is shared between a central (federal) government and individual state governments.

Who were the Anti-Federalists?

People in the late 1700s who opposed the new Constitution.

Why did the Anti-Federalists want a Bill of Rights?

To protect individual freedoms; it was later added.

What powers does the federal government control?

National defense, foreign policy, and currency.

What powers do the state governments control?

Education, local law enforcement, intrastate commerce, etc.

What is the function of the Legislative Branch?

Congress (House of Representatives + Senate) makes laws.

What is the function of the Executive Branch?

The President leads the executive branch and enforces laws.

What is the function of the Judicial Branch?

The Supreme Court interprets the Constitution and laws.

What is a 'state' in the U.S.?

One of the 50 regional governments that make up the country.

What powers do US States have?

Each state has its own constitution, laws, and government (with governor, legislature, and courts).

Are US states soverign countries?

No, states are not sovereign countries. They must follow the U.S. Constitution and federal laws.