AP Gov Unit 1 Study Guide: Foundations of American Democracy

These flashcards cover key political principles, institutions, processes, policies, and behaviors foundational to American democracy, which are essential for understanding the AP Government curriculum.

Popular Sovereignty

The principle that the government's power comes from the people.

Natural Rights

Fundamental rights such as life, liberty, and property, as described by John Locke and included in the Declaration of Independence.

Social Contract

The theory that citizens give up certain freedoms to gain protection and benefits from their government.

Limited Government

A principle that emphasizes that government is bound by law and restricted in its powers.

Republicanism

A form of government in which representatives are elected by the people.

Congress

The legislative branch of the government responsible for making laws.

President

The head of the executive branch who enforces laws.

Federal Courts

The judicial branch that interprets laws.

Civic Engagement

Active participation in the civic life, such as voting or protesting.

Federalism

A system of government in which power is divided between a national and state governments.

Federalists

Supporters of a strong central government, such as Hamilton.

Anti-Federalists

Opponents of a strong central government, who favored the inclusion of a Bill of Rights.

Checks and Balances

A system that ensures that no one branch of government becomes too powerful.

Judicial Review

The power of the Supreme Court to declare laws unconstitutional.

Bicameral Legislature

A legislative body consisting of two chambers, such as the Senate and the House of Representatives.

Great Compromise

An agreement during the Constitutional Convention to create a bicameral legislature.

3/5 Compromise

An agreement that slaves would count as three-fifths of a person for representation purposes.

Electoral College

A body established by the Constitution for indirect election of the president.

Marbury v. Madison

A landmark case that established the principle of judicial review.

Factions

Groups of individuals, often driven by a common interest, that can be a source of conflict in a republic.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the Constitution that guarantee individual liberties.