U.S. Constitution and Federalism

This set of flashcards covers essential vocabulary related to the U.S. Constitution and federalism, providing definitions to key terms for exam preparation.

U.S. Constitution

The foundational document of the United States created in 1787.

Constitutional Convention

The gathering in Philadelphia where the U.S. Constitution was drafted.

Preamble

The introductory statement of the Constitution that outlines its goals.

Bicameral

Having two legislative chambers or houses.

Electoral College

The body that elects the President of the United States.

Supremacy Clause

The clause that establishes federal law as supreme over state law.

Necessary and Proper Clause

The clause that grants Congress the power to pass laws necessary to carry out its duties.

Checks and Balances

The system that ensures no branch of government becomes too powerful.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the Constitution that guarantee individual rights.

Federalism

The division of power between national and state governments.

Delegated Powers

Powers specifically granted to the federal government by the Constitution.

Reserved Powers

Powers not granted to the federal government and reserved for the states.

Concurrent Powers

Powers that are shared by both the federal and state governments.

Grants-in-aid

Federal funds provided to states for specific purposes.

Categorical Grants

Federal funds requiring states to use the money for specific purposes.

Block Grants

Federal funds that allow states greater flexibility in how to use them.

Nullification

The idea that states can invalidate federal laws (not allowed in practice).

New Deal

A set of programs aimed at expanding federal power during the Great Depression.

Welfare Programs

Programs that are jointly funded and administered by federal and state governments.

Landmark Supreme Court Cases

Significant judicial decisions that impact the scope of federalism.