U.S. Constitution Oral Exam Notes

Vocabulary flashcards reviewing core concepts, branches of government, principles, and dates from the U.S. Constitution oral exam notes.

U.S. Constitution

The foundation and rulebook of the U.S. government, written in 1787 and effective in 1789, which establishes the federal government, limits its power, and protects individual rights.

"We the People"

The phrase in the Constitution denoting that power ultimately comes from the people.

Legislative Branch

The branch of the federal government that makes laws.

Executive Branch

The branch of the federal government that enforces laws.

Judicial Branch

The branch of the federal government that interprets laws.

Separation of Powers

The constitutional principle ensuring that power is divided among three branches so no single branch has unlimited power.

Checks and Balances

The constitutional mechanism where each branch of government limits and checks the powers of the other branches.

Federalism

The sharing and division of power between the federal government and state governments.

Limited Government

The constitutional principle requiring government officials to follow the Constitution, ensuring government power is restricted.