UNIT 1 | TOPIC 2: Principles and Events That Influenced the Formation of the U.S. Government

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from UNIT 1, TOPIC 2 notes on the formation of the U.S. government.

baron

In medieval England, a broad term for a nobleman who answered to the king; today refers to a specific, usually lower, rank of nobility in the United Kingdom and elsewhere.

charter

A written document setting forth rights and privileges for a specific group or organization.

natural right

A right that is considered to be endowed by natural law, such as the rights of life, liberty, and property.

due process

The principle that everyone is entitled to fair consideration under the law, and specifically to a fair trial if accused of any wrongdoing.

pilgrim

A person who travels to foreign lands, often for religious reasons.

precedent

An action or decision that serves as an example for the future.

depose

To remove from a position suddenly and by force.

denomination

A group within a religion that shares a common name, traditions, and beliefs.

militia

A group of citizens organized to perform military service who are not necessarily professional soldiers.

mitigate

To make less severe or harsh.

Electoral College

In the United States, a body of electors that represents the voters of each state and elects the president and the vice president.

habeas corpus

From Latin, meaning “you have the body”: a legal mechanism that protects against unlawful or undue imprisonment.

bill of attainder

A law declaring people guilty and prescribing their punishment without granting them a trial.

ex post facto law

A law that makes something illegal retroactively or increases the punishment for a past action.

treason

The crime of betraying one’s country by trying to overthrow its government or supporting its enemies.

ratify

To officially validate a treaty or other agreement.