APUSH 3.9: The Constitution

What is federalism?

The sharing of power between national government and the state government

What is an example of an enumerated power of Congress?

The federal government can declare war

What does the tenth amendment do?

Power not listed in article one sec. 8 belongs to the state governments (marriage, divorce)

What is a separation of powers?

The power divided into the legislative branch, executive branch, and judicial branch

What does the legislative branch do?

Makes the laws

What does the executive branch do?

Carries out and enforces the laws

What does the judicial branch do?

Interpret the laws to ensure they align with the constitution

Did one branch of government have all the power?

Nope, it must be approved and signed

What is a veto?

The constitutional power to reject a decision, proposal, or bill

How can Congress override a veto?

There has to be a two-thirds majority vote

What did the Congress realize about power?

That people instinctively try to gain as much of it (if men were angels no government would be needed)