Key Concepts in U.S. Government and Democracy

These flashcards cover essential terms and concepts related to U.S. government, including amendments, landmark court cases, and foundational principles.

Natural Rights

Rights individuals possess naturally, not granted by government and therefore cannot be taken away by it.

Popular Sovereignty

The principle that power to govern rests with the people.

Social Contract

An agreement among individuals to give up some power to a government in order to maintain order and protect their rights.

Separation of Powers

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

Federalism

A system of government in which power is divided between a national government and various regional governments.

1st Amendment

Protects the freedoms of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition.

10th Amendment

Reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states or the people.

14th Amendment

Defines citizenship and provides for equal protection under the law.

15th Amendment

Prohibits denial of voting rights based on race.

19th Amendment

Grants women the right to vote.

McCulloch v. Maryland

A Supreme Court case that established the federal government's implied powers and affirmed its supremacy over state laws.

Gibbons v. Ogden

Established the federal government’s authority to regulate interstate commerce.

Citizens United v. FEC

Supreme Court ruling that political spending by corporations is protected under the First Amendment.

Federalist No. 10

Written by James Madison, addresses the dangers of factions and advocates for a large republic to control them.

Federalist No. 51

Explains the necessity of checks and balances in government to protect against tyranny.

Necessary and Proper Clause

Grants Congress the power to create laws required to execute its enumerated powers.

Elastic Clause

Allows Congress to pass unspecified laws deemed necessary and proper.

Implied Powers

Powers not explicitly stated in the Constitution but suggested by its provisions.

Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act (BCRA)

A law that regulates the financing of political campaigns.

Checks and Balances

A system that ensures that no one branch of government becomes too powerful.