Unit 3: Constitution Review and Key Concepts

Civil Duties

Requirements for citizens with consequences if ignored.

Civil Responsibilities

Actions citizens should take without legal penalties.

Constitutional Convention

1787 meeting to revise the Articles of Confederation.

Checks and Balances

System preventing any government branch from overpowering others.

Articles of Confederation

First U.S. government framework, weak central authority.

Virginia Plan

Proposal favoring large states in legislative representation.

Northwest Ordinance

Legislation establishing governance for Northwest Territory.

Three-Fifths Compromise

Counted slaves as 3/5 for representation purposes.

Federalism

Division of power between state and national governments.

Amendment Process

Requires 2/3 House approval for constitutional changes.

Great Compromise

Merged Virginia and New Jersey Plans for legislature.

Republicanism

Government elected by the people through voting.

Bill of Rights

First ten amendments protecting individual liberties.

Limited Government

Government restricted to protect citizens' rights.

Legislative Branch

Creates laws and proposes amendments in government.

Federalists

Supporters of a strong central government and Constitution.

Popular Sovereignty

People's right to vote on government officials.

Separation of Powers

Divides government into Legislative, Executive, Judicial branches.

Executive Branch

Enforces laws made by the Legislative Branch.

Shays' Rebellion

Farmers' uprising highlighting weaknesses of Articles.

Judicial Branch

Interprets laws and checks constitutionality.

First Amendment

Guarantees freedom of speech, press, and religion.

Second Amendment

Protects the right to bear arms.

Third Amendment

Prohibits quartering soldiers in private homes.

Fourth Amendment

Protects against unreasonable searches and seizures.

Fifth Amendment

Ensures due process and protects against double jeopardy.

Sixth Amendment

Guarantees right to a speedy trial and legal counsel.

Seventh Amendment

Ensures right to a jury trial in civil cases.

Eighth Amendment

Prohibits cruel and unusual punishment.

Ninth Amendment

Protects rights not explicitly stated in the Constitution.

Tenth Amendment

Reserves powers not delegated to the federal government.