Constitution and Government Quiz Review

Vocabulary flashcards covering the Foundations of the Constitution, key principles, Hamilton vs. Jefferson debates, and essential amendments from the Bill of Rights.

Articles of Confederation

The first government of the United States (1781–1789), which established a weak national government with no president, no national court system, and a Congress that could neither tax nor regulate trade.

Shays' Rebellion

A historic event that exposed the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, showing that the national government could not raise money or enforce laws, and led to the Constitutional Convention (1787).

Popular Sovereignty

The constitutional principle stating that power comes from the people.

Federalism

The constitutional principle where power is divided between national and state governments.

Separation of Powers

The division of government authority into three distinct branches: Legislative (makes laws), Executive (enforces laws), and Judicial (interprets laws).

Legislative Branch

The branch of government tasked with making laws.

Executive Branch

The branch of government tasked with enforcing laws.

Judicial Branch

The branch of government tasked with interpreting laws.

Checks and Balances

The principle that allows each branch of government to limit the power of the others.

Limited Government

The principle stating that the government must obey the Constitution.

Alexander Hamilton's Political Platform

A political platform advocating for a strong national government, a loose interpretation of the Constitution, the creation of a National Bank, and an industrial economy.

Thomas Jefferson's Political Platform

A political platform advocating for strong state governments, a strict interpretation of the Constitution, opposition to the National Bank, and an agricultural economy.

Necessary and Proper Clause

A constitutional provision utilized by Hamilton to justify the establishment of the National Bank.

The Bill of Rights

The first 10 amendments to the United States Constitution that protect individual freedoms.

1st Amendment

Protects the freedoms of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition.

4th Amendment

Protects individuals against unreasonable searches.

5th Amendment

Guarantees due process and protects individuals from self-incrimination.

6th Amendment

Guarantees the right to a lawyer and a fair trial.

10th Amendment

Establishes reserved powers for the states.