AP Gov Midterm

Necessary and Proper Clause

Grants Congress the power to make all laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers.

Commerce Clause

Grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations, among the states, and with the Indian tribes.

10th Amendment

Affirms that powers not delegated to the federal government are reserved to the states or the people.

Federalism

A system where power is divided between the national and state governments.

Judicial Review

The power of the courts to declare laws and actions of the executive and legislative branches unconstitutional.

Separation of Powers

The division of governmental authority among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

Checks and Balances

A system that prevents any one branch of government from becoming too powerful.

Federalist No. 51

Written by James Madison, it emphasizes the need for a system of checks and balances in government.

Articles of Confederation

The first governing document of the United States, which created a weak national government.

Ratification

The formal approval process for a proposed amendment or constitution.

Direct Democracy

A form of democracy where citizens vote directly on policies and laws.

Impeachment Process

The process by which Congress can remove a sitting president or other federal officials from office.

The Federalist Papers

A series of essays advocating for the ratification of the U.S. Constitution.

Great Compromise

An agreement during the Constitutional Convention that established a bicameral legislature.

electoral College

The body of electors established by the Constitution to elect the President and Vice President.

Political Cartoons

Illustrations or comic strips containing a political or social message, often analyzing current events.