Key Constitutional Clauses Review

These flashcards cover essential clauses in the U.S. Constitution, including their articles, amendments, and interpretations.

Bill of Attainder Clause

Article I section 9, clause 3; prohibits laws that put individuals in jail without a legal trial.

Commerce Clause

Article I section 8 clause 3; grants Congress the power to regulate trade and economy both internationally and domestically.

Contracts Clause

Article I section 10 clause 1; forbids states from passing laws that interfere with private contracts.

Due Process Clause (5th Amendment)

Ensures no person is deprived of life, liberty, or property without legal procedures.

Due Process Clause (14th Amendment)

No state can take a person's natural rights without due process.

Elastic Clause

Article I section 8 clause 18; allows Congress to make laws necessary for executing its powers.

Equal Protection Clause

14th Amendment; mandates equal protection under the law for all individuals.

Establishment Clause

1st Amendment; prohibits the government from establishing a national religion.

Ex Post Facto Clause

Article I section 9 clause 3; prohibits retroactive laws that criminalize actions made legal before.

Extradition Clause

Article IV section 2 clause 2; requires states to return individuals fleeing justice to the state of jurisdiction.

Free Exercise Clause

1st Amendment; protects individuals' rights to freely practice their religion.

Full Faith and Credit Clause

Article IV section 1; mandates states to respect the public acts and judicial proceedings of other states.

Preamble

Introduction to the Constitution, stating that the government's power comes from the consent of the governed.

Privileges and Immunities Clause

Article IV section 2 clause 1; prevents states from discriminating against citizens of other states.

Reserved Power Clause

10th Amendment; reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states or people.

Search and Seizure Clause

4th Amendment; protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures without a warrant.

Supremacy Clause

Article VI clause 2; establishes that federal law is the supreme law of the land.

Takings Clause (Eminent Domain)

5th Amendment; requires just compensation when private property is taken for public use.