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What historical documents influenced the American Constitution?

The English Magna Carta and the English Bill of Rights.

What was the main idea behind Locke's Two Treatises of Civil Government?

Government is based on a contract between the people and the ruler.

What does federalism mean in the context of the Constitution?

Sharing power between the federal government and the states.

What powers are retained by the states under the Constitution?

Control over trade within their borders, local governments, schools, and marriage laws.

What are the three branches of government established by the Constitution?

Legislative, Executive, and Judicial branches.

What does the system of checks and balances ensure?

No single branch of government can gain too much power.

Who were the key supporters of the Constitution known as?

Federalists.

What were the concerns of the Anti-Federalists regarding the Constitution?

A strong national government would take away liberties and ignore the will of the states.

What was the major critique of the Constitution that led to calls for a Bill of Rights?

The lack of explicit protections for individual freedoms.

When was the Constitution ratified by the ninth state, making it theoretically law?

June 21, 1788.

Who became the first state to ratify the Constitution?

Delaware on December 7, 1787.

What amendment was promised to address the need for a Bill of Rights?

A bill of rights amendment was promised and fulfilled in 1791.

What was Montesquieu's contribution to the Framers' ideas on government?

The idea of separation of powers to prevent any one group from gaining too much control.