US Constitution Study Guide

A collection of flashcards covering key concepts and vocabulary related to the US Constitution, including definitions and important figures.

Preamble

Lays out the goals of the constitution.

Popular Sovereignty

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

Limited Government

A principle that restricts government powers; the government is not all-powerful.

Separation of Powers

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

Checks and Balances

Mechanisms that prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful.

Judicial Review

The power of courts to determine the constitutionality of legislative acts.

Federalism

The mixed or compound mode of government that combines general government with regional governments in a single political system.

Expressed/Enumerated Powers

Powers specifically stated in the Constitution, such as the power to coin money.

Implied Powers

Powers not specifically stated but inferred from the Constitution.

Concurrent Powers

Powers shared by both state and federal governments, such as the power to tax.

House of Representatives

The lower house of Congress where representatives serve for 2 years.

Senate

The upper house of Congress; each state is represented by 2 senators serving 6-year terms.

Impeachment Process

The process by which a legislative body levels charges against a government official.

Quorum

The minimum number of members of Congress needed to conduct business, which is 50% + 1.

Electoral College

The body that elects the President and Vice President of the United States, requiring 270 votes to win.

Term Limit for President

Two terms as established by the 22nd Amendment.

Supreme Court

The highest federal court in the United States, established by the Constitution.

Judicial Review Case

The case of Marbury vs Madison established the principle of judicial review.