Creating Republican Governments, 1776-1790

These flashcards cover key concepts, terms, and important figures related to the creation and ratification of Republican governments in the United States from 1776 to 1790.

Constitutional Convention

A gathering in 1787 where representatives discussed and drafted the Constitution of the United States.

Ratification

The official approval of the Constitution by the states.

Federalists

Supporters of the Constitution who favored a strong federal government.

Anti-Federalists

Opponents of the Constitution who feared that a strong federal government would threaten individual liberties.

The Federalist Papers

A series of 85 articles written to promote the ratification of the Constitution, authored by James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and John Jay.

Judicial Review

The power of federal courts to review the constitutionality of legislative and executive acts.

Checks and Balances

A system that ensures that no branch of government becomes too powerful, each branch can check the actions of the others.

Electoral College

A body formed by the electors from each state to formally elect the President and Vice President of the United States.

Federalism

A political system where power is divided between the national and state governments.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the Constitution, guaranteeing individual rights.

Aristocracy

A form of government in which power is held by the nobility or a privileged elite.

Mob Rule

A situation in which the majority can oppress the minority through the democratic process.

George Mason's Objections

Concerns raised by George Mason about the lack of a Bill of Rights and concentrated federal power.

New Hampshire

The ninth state to ratify the Constitution on June 21, 1788.

The U.S. Congress

The legislative body of the United States government, first convened on March 4, 1789.