The Constitution

Constitution

A written code that outlines the structure and powers of a government.

First Continental Congress

A meeting of representatives from twelve of the thirteen colonies in September 1774 to discuss grievances against Great Britain.

Second Continental Congress

Convened in May 1775, this Congress took on governmental functions and declared independence from Great Britain.

Declaration of Independence

A document primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson that justified the colonies' break from Great Britain, highlighting natural rights.

natural rights

Fundamental rights that every individual possesses, such as 'Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness,' as stated in the Declaration.

Articles of Confederation

The first constitution of the United States, adopted in 1781, that established a weak national government.

unicameral legislature

A legislature with one legislative house or chamber, as established by the Articles of Confederation.

Shay's Rebellion

A revolt of debtor farmers in Massachusetts in 1786-1787 that highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.

Constitutional Convention

A 1787 meeting of delegates from twelve states in Philadelphia to create a new framework of government.

Virginia Plan

A proposal for a bicameral legislature with representation based on population, favoring larger states.

New Jersey Plan

A proposal that retained a unicameral legislature with equal representation, favoring smaller states.

Great Compromise

The agreement that established a bicameral legislature with proportional representation in the House and equal representation in the Senate.

Three-Fifths Compromise

A formula for counting slaves as three-fifths of a person for representation and taxation purposes.

Electoral College

A body of electors established by the Constitution to elect the president and vice president.

separation of powers

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

Federalism

A political system that divides power between the national and state governments.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the Constitution that guarantee individual freedoms and rights.

Federalists

Supporters of the Constitution who advocated for a strong national government.

Antifederalists

Opponents of the Constitution who feared that a strong central government would threaten individual liberties.

The Federalist Papers

A series of articles written by Hamilton, Jay, and Madison supporting the ratification of the Constitution.

Amendment Process

The procedure for altering the Constitution, involving proposal and ratification by states.

Nineteenth Amendment

The amendment, ratified in 1920, that granted women the right to vote.

supremacy clause

A clause in Article VI of the Constitution establishing that the Constitution and federal laws take precedence over state laws.