U.S. Constitution Foundations: Articles, Compromises, and Checks & Balances

What was a significant economic issue under the Articles of Confederation?

Each state had its own currency, leading to difficulties in trade and agreement.

What power did Congress have regarding currency under the Articles of Confederation?

Congress had the power to coin money and regulate its value.

What event highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation regarding military response?

Shays' Rebellion, where veterans protested due to unpaid debts and foreclosures.

What was the main problem with the legislative structure under the Articles of Confederation?

It was unicameral, meaning there was a single house with no checks and balances.

What were the two plans proposed during the Constitutional Convention regarding representation?

The New Jersey Plan favored equal representation for states, while the Virginia Plan favored representation based on population.

What compromise resulted in a bicameral legislature?

The Great Compromise (or Connecticut Compromise) established a two-chamber Congress.

What is the purpose of the Electoral College as outlined in the Constitution?

It is the process for electing the president and vice president.

What does the 3/5 Compromise state regarding slaves?

Three-fifths of a slave's population would be counted for representation in the House.

What was the Slave Trade Clause in the Constitution?

It allowed the continuation of the slave trade until 1808.

What are the Bill of Rights?

The first ten amendments to the Constitution that guarantee civil liberties and place restrictions on government power.

What does Article V outline?

The process for amending the Constitution, requiring 2/3rds of state approval.

What is the significance of Federalist No. 51?

It discusses the importance of checks and balances and the separation of powers in government.

How is power divided in the U.S. government?

Power is divided among three branches: Legislative, Executive, and Judicial.

What is meant by checks and balances?

Each branch of government has the power to check the others, preventing any one branch from becoming too powerful.

What is the advice and consent clause?

It gives the Senate the power to approve treaties and confirm presidential appointments.

What is the impeachment process?

It is the formal process in which a federal officer is accused of treason, leading to potential removal from office.

What does the term 'bicameralism' refer to?

A legislative system where the lawmaking body is divided into two separate chambers.

What was a major consequence of the lack of an independent judicial branch under the Articles of Confederation?

There was no effective mechanism to resolve disputes or enforce laws.

What was the goal of the Constitutional Convention?

To address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and create a stronger federal government.

What was the primary issue surrounding slavery during the Constitutional debates?

There was significant disagreement on how to address slavery, leading to compromises like the 3/5 Compromise.

What does the term 'ratification' refer to in the context of the Constitution?

The formal approval process required for the Constitution to take effect.

What was the significance of the Articles of Confederation?

They were the first governing document of the United States, highlighting the need for a stronger federal government.