Civic Knowledge and U.S. Government Principles -- mid-term review

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and concepts related to ancient citizenship, the American government, the Constitution, and foundational civic principles.

Ancient Citizenship

The concept of citizenship originating from ancient Greece and Rome, where only males with property were considered citizens.

Naturalization Process

The process through which a non-citizen can become a citizen, involving steps like declaring intent, living in the U.S. for at least 5 years, taking classes, interviewing, taking an exam, and taking an oath.

Common American Values

Fundamental beliefs shared by Americans, including freedom, equality, justice, diversity, and respect, as articulated in documents like the Declaration of Independence.

Democracy

A system of government where power is derived from the consent of the governed, typically through elected representatives.

Oligarchy

A form of government where power is held by a small group of wealthy individuals.

Magna Carta

A charter signed in 1215 that limited the powers of the king and laid the foundation for parliamentary representation.

Checks and Balances

A system in which each branch of government can limit the powers of the others, preventing any single branch from becoming too powerful.

Social Contract

An agreement between individuals and the government where individuals give up certain rights for protection by the state.

Federalism

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

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution that guarantee individual liberties and rights.

Popular Sovereignty

The principle that the authority of the government is created and sustained by the consent of its people.

Virginia Plan

A proposal for the structure of the U.S. government that called for representation based on population.

3/5 Compromise

An agreement that counted enslaved individuals as three-fifths of a person for purposes of representation in Congress.

Federalists

Supporters of a strong central government and the ratification of the U.S. Constitution.

Anti-Federalists

Opponents of a strong central government who advocated for states' rights and a Bill of Rights.

Mercantilism

An economic theory that trade generates wealth and is stimulated by the accumulation of profitable balances.

Tolerance

The acceptance of different beliefs, opinions, or practices.

Republicanism

An ideology centered on citizenship in a state organized as a republic, emphasizing the common good.

Salutary Neglect

A policy of relaxed enforcement of laws and taxes on the American colonies by Britain.

Precedent

A legal decision or form of case law that serves as an example or rule for future similar cases.