POL 110

Democracy

A recent phenomenon in history characterized by the struggle for equal representation and participation in governance.

Jan 6th, 2021

An event that is not isolated but part of a broader history of political strife in the United States.

Democratic backsliding

The erosion of democratic norms and institutions, leading to reduced political freedoms.

Anti-Immigration Sentiment

Long-standing prejudice against immigrants that has been a recurring theme in American history.

Voter suppression

Efforts to prevent specific groups from exercising their right to vote.

U.S. Constitution

The supreme law of the United States that establishes government structure and principles, including protections against majority rule.

Separation of Powers

A governance model dividing responsibilities among different branches to prevent any one entity from gaining too much power.

Divided government

A situation where one political party controls one branch of government and another party controls a different branch.

Veto points

Stages in the legislative process where proposed laws can be halted or rejected.

Federalism

A system where significant powers are divided between a central government and smaller political units like states.

Tyranny of the minority

A situation where a small group holds disproportionate power over the majority, often leading to inaction.

House of Representatives

The lower chamber of Congress, with representation based on state population.

Senate

The upper chamber of Congress, where each state has equal representation with two senators, regardless of population.

Policy change

The process through which governmental policies are altered or reformed, often slow and complicated in the American system.