US History: Civil War, Constitution, and Expansion Key Concepts

Kansas-Nebraska Act

Legislation that allowed the territories of Kansas and Nebraska to decide the issue of slavery through popular sovereignty.

Dred Scott v. Sanford

A landmark Supreme Court case ruling that enslaved and formerly enslaved African Americans were not U.S. citizens and could not sue in court.

Mayflower Compact

The first governing document of Plymouth Colony, establishing a form of self-government based on majority rule.

Common Sense

A pamphlet by Thomas Paine advocating for American independence from British rule.

Elastic Clause

A clause in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution that grants Congress the power to pass laws deemed necessary and proper.

Civil War

A conflict primarily over slavery and states' rights, leading to significant changes in U.S. law and society.

Federalist Papers

Essays written by Hamilton and Madison arguing in favor of the Constitution and promoting a strong central government.

Anti-Federalist Papers

Essays opposing the Constitution, expressing concerns about government overreach and the loss of individual liberties.

Judicial Review

The principle established by Marbury v. Madison allowing the Supreme Court to declare laws unconstitutional.

Great Compromise

An agreement during the Constitutional Convention that established a bicameral legislature balancing representation for large and small states.