American Government - Final Study Guide

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering key concepts from the American Government final study guide, including U.S. history, geography, the Constitution, branches of government, and civic engagement.

Why did the colonists fight the British?

They fought against taxation without representation.

When was the Declaration of Independence adopted?

July 4th, 1776.

What are some of the rights included in the Declaration of Independence?

Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Where is the Statue of Liberty located?

New York Harbor.

What is the capital of the United States?

Washington, D.C.

What is the capital of California?

Sacramento.

What is the supreme law of the land?

The Constitution.

What promises do you make when you become a citizen?

To support and defend the Constitution and laws.

What are the first three words of the Constitution?

We the People.

What is the purpose of the Constitution? When was it written?

To establish the framework of the government and protect citizens' rights; written in 1787.

What is an amendment? How many are in the Constitution?

An amendment is a change or addition to the Constitution; there are 27 amendments.

What stops one branch of government from becoming too powerful?

The system of checks and balances.

What is federalism?

A system where power is divided between federal and state governments.

What are two rights of everyone living in the United States?

Freedom of speech and freedom of religion.

What are the rights and responsibilities of citizens?

The right to vote and the right to a fair trial.

What are the 3 branches of government and their functions?

Legislative (makes laws), Executive (enforces laws), Judicial (interprets laws).

What are the two major political parties in the United States? What are the differences between them?

Democratic Party and Republican Party; they differ in their political ideologies and policies.

What is the 'rule of law'?

Everyone is accountable under the law.

What are the requirements to become a member of the House of Representatives?

Must be at least 25 years old, a U.S. citizen, and a resident of the state they represent.

What are the two chambers of Congress? How many members are in each chamber?

House of Representatives (435 members) and Senate (100 members).

Who do U.S. House Representatives represent? Who do U.S. Senators represent?

House Representatives represent their district; Senators represent the entire state.

How do we determine the number of representatives each state gets?

Based on the population size of each state.

Who is the Speaker of the House?

The presiding officer of the House of Representatives.

Who are your state's U.S. senators?

Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff.

What are the requirements to become president of the United States?

Must be a natural-born citizen, at least 35 years old, and a resident for 14 years.

What are the powers of the president?

Commanding armed forces, appointing ambassadors, and making treaties.

Describe veto power - what is the president's role?

The president can reject a bill passed by Congress.

Who is commander in chief of the U.S. military?

The President.

Who are the current president and vice president?

Donald Trump and jd Vance

What is the line of succession if the President dies?

Vice president, Speaker of the House, President Pro Tempore of the Senate, then Secretaries of the executive branch in order.

In what month do we vote for President?

November.

Describe term limits for presidents.

Presidents are limited to 2 elected terms.

What is the political party of the current president?

Republican Party.

Who is the Governor of California?

Gavin Newsom.

How old do citizens have to be to vote?

18 years old.

What is in the 1st Amendment?

Protects freedom of religion, speech, press, and the right to petition the government.

What is the highest court in the United States?

The Supreme Court.

How many justices are on the Supreme Court?

There are 9 justices.

Who is the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court?

John Roberts.

How can Americans participate in their democracy?

By voting, contacting officials, protesting, donating, volunteering, and running for office.