AP Government Unit 1: Foundations of American Democracy

These flashcards cover key concepts from AP Government Unit 1 regarding the foundations of American democracy, including enlightenment ideas, founding documents, structure of government, and fundamental principles.

What are natural rights as defined in American democracy?

Fundamental rights that belong to all people by virtue of being human and exist independently of government.

Who is the philosopher associated with the concept of natural rights?

John Locke, who argued that people are born equal and free, and government exists to protect these rights.

Define social contract in the context of government.

An implied agreement between people and their government in which citizens consent to obey laws in exchange for protection of rights and order.

What principle does popular sovereignty uphold?

All governmental authority comes from the people, not a monarch or elite class.

How is limited government enforced?

Through a written constitution, separation of powers, checks and balances, and judicial review.

What is republicanism?

A political system where citizens elect representatives to make policy decisions on their behalf.

What was the purpose of the Declaration of Independence?

To justify independence from Britain and explain the philosophical reasons for revolution.

Identify a major weakness of the Articles of Confederation.

It lacked the power to tax and regulate interstate commerce.

What event demonstrated the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?

Shays’ Rebellion, where farmers rebelled due to debt, illustrating the need for a stronger government.

What does the U.S. Constitution aim to replace?

It aimed to replace the Articles of Confederation in order to create a stronger national government.

What is the purpose of Article V of the Constitution?

To allow for formal amendments, balancing stability and flexibility.

What does the separation of powers principle entail?

Dividing authority among three branches: Legislative, Executive, and Judicial to prevent concentration of power.

What does the Checks and Balances system do?

Allows each branch of government to limit the powers of the others.

Who authored Federalist No. 51 and what was the core argument?

James Madison; the core argument was that government must control itself and separation of powers prevents tyranny.

Define federalism in the context of American government.

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

What are enumerated powers?

Powers explicitly granted to Congress as outlined in Article I of the Constitution.

What is the significance of the Supremacy Clause?

Federal law takes precedence over state law in case of conflict.

What compromise established representation in Congress?

The Great Compromise, which established a House based on population and a Senate with equal representation.

Explain the purpose of the Electoral College.

To balance the popular vote and state interests in electing the president.

What are linkage institutions?

Entities that connect citizens to the government, such as political parties, elections, media, and interest groups.

Describe the policy-making process steps.

Agenda setting, formulation, adoption, implementation, and evaluation.

What is the difference between categorical grants and block grants?

Categorical grants have strict conditions that increase federal control, while block grants are flexible and increase state power.