AP Government Review

Flashcards covering key concepts of AP Government, including the Constitution, federalism, political participation, the branches of government, civil liberties, and civil rights.

What are the goals of the US Constitution?

Create a strong union of states, establish justice, preserve domestic order, provide for the common defense, promote general welfare, promote individual freedoms.

How does the Constitution address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?

Creates Federalism, allows national government to tax, Congress can regulate commerce, establishes an executive department and national judiciary.

What is the Bill of Rights?

The first 10 amendments to the Constitution.

What is one method of informal amendment to the Constitution?

Judicial review, as established by Marbury v. Madison.

What are the types of powers in federalism?

Delegated, expressed, implied, inherent, concurrent, and reserved powers.

What is the Full Faith and Credit Clause?

States are required to recognize the laws and legal documents of other states.

What was the significance of McCulloch v. Maryland?

Confirmed the federal government's ability to create a bank (Elastic Clause) and established federal supremacy over state laws.

What is dual federalism?

Layer cake federalism where national and state governments operate within their own spheres.

What is fiscal federalism?

National government provides money and resources to state and local projects through grants.

What is the purpose of interest groups?

Raise awareness, represent membership, provide information to government, and facilitate political participation.

What is the Electoral College?

A body of electors established by the Constitution to elect the President and Vice-President of the United States.

What requirements must a President meet as per the Constitution?

Natural born citizen, at least 35 years old, resident of the U.S. for 14 years.

What is the process for impeachment?

The House brings charges and the Senate holds a trial with a 2/3 vote needed for conviction.

What is the concept of judicial restraint?

The court should avoid taking initiative on social and political questions.

What does the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment do?

Prevents states from discriminating against citizens.

What landmark case established judicial review?

Marbury v. Madison.

How does the government protect the right to assemble?

The government can impose time, place, and manner restrictions to protect rights and safety.

What does the Eighth Amendment protect against?

Cruel and unusual punishments.

What is affirmative action?

A policy designed to correct the effects of past discrimination.