The U.S. Constitution

Flashcards are from Mr.Zhangi's notes on the U.S. Constitution.

The Convention

Met in Philadelphia in 1787 to draft the U.S. Constitution.

Articles of Confederation

The governing document from 1783-1787, which created a weak national government.

Federalism

The division of government powers between national and state authorities.

Ratification

The process of formally approving the Constitution, completed in June 1788.

Separation of Powers

A principle established by Baron de Montesquieu that divides government responsibilities into distinct branches.

Legislative Branch

The branch of government responsible for making laws, consisting of a bicameral legislature.

House of Representatives

One chamber of Congress based on state population, with 435 members.

Senate

The other chamber of Congress, with 100 members, two from each state.

Executive Branch

The branch of government that enforces laws, led by the President.

Presidency

The office of the President, who must be a native-born citizen, at least 35 years old, and elected for a four-year term.

Electoral College

The system used to elect the President, where each state’s votes are based on its number of representatives and senators.

Impeachment

The process of charging a President with "High Crimes and Misdemeanors," involving the House as prosecutor and the Senate as jury.

Bureaucracy

An organization that employs individuals to enforce laws and policies of the government.

Judicial Branch

The branch of government that interprets laws and settles disputes.

Grand Jury

A panel of citizens that determines if there is enough evidence to charge someone with a crime.

Supreme Court

The highest court in the U.S., which has original jurisdiction over certain cases.

Amendment

A formal change or addition to the Constitution.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the Constitution, outlining individual rights.

1st Amendment

Guarantees free speech and prohibits the establishment of an official religion.

2nd Amendment

Protects the right to keep and bear arms.

4th Amendment

Protects against unreasonable searches and seizures, requiring warrants.

5th Amendment

Ensures due process and protects against self-incrimination.

6th Amendment

Guarantees the right to a speedy trial.

8th Amendment

Prohibits cruel and unusual punishment.

10th Amendment

States that powers not delegated to the federal government are reserved for the states.