Structure and Design of the U.S. Federal Government

Vocabulary flashcards covering the key terms, branches, and system of checks and balances within the U.S. federal government based on the provided notes.

Separation of powers

A principle where the U.S. Constitution divides the federal government into three branches to prevent any one branch from having too much power.

Legislative branch

The branch of government, known as Congress, that is responsible for making the laws.

Executive branch

The branch consisting of the President and their administration, responsible for enforcing the laws.

Judicial branch

The court system responsible for interpreting the laws and declaring acts or laws unconstitutional.

Checks and balances

A system where each branch of government is available to restrain or check the power of the other two branches to prevent the abuse of power.

Montesquieu

The 18th-century French political philosopher who first proposed the division of government into three branches to promote liberty.

House of Representatives

One of the two components of Congress that, along with the Senate, can veto each other's bills.

Senate

A component of Congress that confirms the President's nominations and can impeach judges and remove them from office.

Presidential veto

The power of the President to reject congressional legislation, which serves as a check on the legislative branch.

Impeachment

The power of Congress to remove the President or federal judges from office.

Supreme Court

Part of the judicial branch that can declare presidential acts or laws unconstitutional.

Congressional override

The power of Congress to pass laws over a President's veto.