Key Concepts in U.S. Constitutional Rights and Amendments

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to U.S. constitutional rights and amendments, essential for understanding the legal foundations of civil rights in America.

Affirmative Action

Government support for minorities to provide equality under the law.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution that guarantee personal liberties and limit government power.

Civil Liberties

Rights protected by the Bill of Rights.

Civil Rights

Equal protection under the law applied to individuals.

Civil Rights Act of 1964

Legislation that established legality of access to public accommodations and facilities.

Clear and Present Danger Doctrine

Allows government to censor free speech during national emergencies if it poses a significant threat.

De Facto Segregation

Segregation that occurs through circumstance without laws enforcement.

De Jure Segregation

Segregation that is mandated by law, now illegal due to Brown v. Board of Education.

Due Process Clause

Guarantees protection of individual's rights through procedural processes, found in the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments.

Eighth Amendment

Constitutional protection against cruel and unusual punishment and excessive bail.

Equal Protection Clause

Originally intended to protect freed slaves; it was later interpreted to protect other minority groups.

Establishment Clause

Part of the First Amendment that prohibits the government from establishing a religion and protects citizens' practice of religion.

Exclusionary Rule

Rule from Mapp v. Ohio stating that evidence obtained without a valid search warrant is inadmissible in court.

Fifth Amendment

Constitutional protection against self-incrimination and double jeopardy.

First Amendment

Protects freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly against government infringement.

Fourteenth Amendment

Made freed slaves citizens and guaranteed them equal protection under the law.

Fourth Amendment

Constitutional amendment ensuring due process and equal protection under the law.