Civics + Econ: Unit 1 (Citizenship)

Vocabulary flashcards covering core civics concepts, constitutional amendments, citizens' duties and responsibilities, and immigration terms.

8th Amendment

The constitutional amendment stating that the government cannot issue any person cruel or unusual punishment.

Civility

The practice of respectful and courteous behavior in interactions with others, even in disagreement or conflict.

3rd Amendment

The constitutional amendment forbidding the government from forcing citizens to house soldiers during a time of peace without the homeowner's permission.

Freedom of Press

A First Amendment freedom that protects citizens from government censorship in the press, including news and videos.

Freedom of Assembly

A First Amendment freedom that allows peaceful public or private gatherings.

Freedom of Speech

A First Amendment freedom that allows individuals to openly voice opinions on public officials and government.

Aliens

A term for persons living in the US who are illegal citizens.

Naturalization

A major step in immigrant citizenship and the process non-US citizens go through to become citizens; requires 5 residential years in the US, a valid green card, and an oath of allegiance.

Birth and Naturalization

The two ways a person can obtain United States citizenship.

Freedom of Petition

A First Amendment freedom that allows individuals to publicly challenge and voice opinions to public officials.

Responsibilities

Actions citizens should do, such as register and vote, voice opinions to public officials, take part in political campaigns, hold elective office, serve in voluntary positions, and stay informed.

6th Amendment

The constitutional amendment providing the right to a speedy and public trial, the right to challenge and bring forth witnesses, and the right to a lawyer.

4th Amendment

The constitutional amendment preventing unreasonable searches and seizures, requiring official warrants that list the items or people to be taken.

5th Amendment

The constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to a trial, protection against double jeopardy, protection from being a witness against oneself, requiring payment for private property taken by the government, and prohibiting the loss of life, liberty, or property without due process.

1st Amendment

The constitutional amendment protecting five fundamental freedoms: Religion, Assembly, Press, Petition, and Speech (known by the acronym RAPPS).

14th Amendment

The constitutional amendment that defines citizenship, guarantees equal protection under the law, and prevents states from denying due process or equal protection.

Allegiance

Loyalty to a country; closely associated with patriotism.

Citizen

Anyone born or naturalized in the U.S. or a country, given protection in return for allegiance.

Duties

Obligations that citizens must do, including obeying the laws, paying taxes, defending the nation, and serving on a jury or as a witness in court.

Freedom of Religion

A First Amendment freedom that allows free worship.

United States Citizenship and Immigration Services

The full name for the agency represented by the acronym USCIS.

Habeas Corpus

A legal protection requiring that people must be told in front of a judge why they were arrested.

Diversity

A synonym for variety that increases through immigration and naturalization.

Census

An official population count.

Immigration

The process of permanently moving from one country to another, exemplified by Ellis Island processing people in the 1900s.

Due Process

An orderly way of things that ensures all people's rights are protected.