civics 1

Popular Sovereignty

The principle that government derives its authority from the consent of the governed.

Limited Government

A political system where the powers of the government are restricted by laws, usually in a constitution.

Separation of Powers

The division of government responsibilities into distinct branches to prevent any one branch from exercising the core functions of another.

Checks and Balances

A system that ensures that no branch of government becomes too powerful by allowing each branch to check the powers of the others.

Judicial Review

The power of courts to determine whether a law is constitutional.

Federalism

A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units.

Supremacy Clause

Article VI of the Constitution stating that federal law takes precedence over state laws.

Elastic Clause

The clause in the Constitution that allows Congress to pass laws necessary and proper to carry out its enumerated powers.

Delegated Powers

Powers specifically granted to the federal government by the Constitution.

Reserved Powers

Powers not granted to the federal government nor prohibited to the states, which are reserved for the states or the people.

Concurrent Powers

Powers that are shared by both the national and state governments.

Federalists

Supporters of a strong central government, typically associated with Alexander Hamilton.

Anti-Federalists

Opponents of a strong central government who favored states' rights, typically associated with Thomas Jefferson.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the Constitution, guaranteeing individual liberties.

Amendment Process

The process by which changes may be made to the Constitution, requiring a proposal and ratification.

Articles of Confederation

The first constitution of the United States, which established a weak federal government.

First Amendment

Guarantees freedoms concerning religion, expression, assembly, and the right to petition.

Second Amendment

Protects the right of the people to keep and bear arms.

Third Amendment

Prohibits the quartering of soldiers in private homes without the owner's consent.

Fourth Amendment

Protects against unreasonable searches and seizures and sets out requirements for search warrants.

Fifth Amendment

Establishes rights related to both criminal and civil legal proceedings, including the right against self-incrimination.

Sixth Amendment

Guarantees the right to a speedy trial, an impartial jury, and counsel.

Seventh Amendment

Provides for the right to a jury trial in civil cases.

Eighth Amendment

Prohibits excessive bail, excessive fines, and cruel and unusual punishment.

Ninth Amendment

Affirms that the enumeration of specific rights in the Constitution does not mean that individuals do not have other rights.

Tenth Amendment

States that powers not delegated to the federal government nor prohibited to the states are reserved to the states or the people.

Ratification

The formal approval process of the Constitution or its amendments, requiring a certain number of states.

Preamble

An introductory statement in the Constitution outlining its purpose and guiding principles.

Judicial Branch

The branch of government that interprets laws and administers justice.

Executive Branch

The branch of government responsible for enforcing laws; includes the President.

Legislative Branch

The branch of government responsible for making laws; consists of Congress.