Introduction to AP U.S. Government

Vocabulary flashcards covering key AP Gov terms.

Checks and Balances

Constitutional grant of powers that enables each of the three branches of government to check some acts of the other branches of govt.

Federalism

The system of government in the U.S. in which power is shared between the national and state governments.

Judicial Review

The power of courts to examine and undo actions of the legislative and executive branches if those actions are found unconstitutional.

Bicameral Legislature

The lawmaking body of a system of government where authority is shared between two separate houses, or chambers.

Bill of Rights

The part of the U.S. Constitution that lists and protects individual liberties and rights.

Mayflower Compact

The first written framework for self-government in what would become the U.S.

Articles of Confederation

The first governing document for the U.S. drafted in 1777; replaced by the U.S. Constitution in 1789.

Interest Groups

A collection of people who share a common interest or attitude and seek to influence the government for specific ends.

Enumerated Powers

These are specific powers granted to the federal government by the U.S. Constitution (Article 1, sec 8).

Executive Order

Issued by the president of the United States (POTUS) to manage operations of the federal government.

Political Socialization

The process by which individuals develop political beliefs, values, opinions and behaviors through their family, schools, peers, media, and social environments.

Inherent Powers

These are powers not explicitly outlined in the U.S. Constitution but are necessary for the government to function and maintain order.

Supremacy Clause

Gives the national government and its laws general precedence over states’ laws.

Republicanism

The democratic principle that the will of the people is reflected in government decisions by their representatives.

22nd Amendment

Limits the president of the United States (POTUS) to two terms in office, or a maximum of ten years if they ascended to the presidency via succession.

Federal Bureaucracy

The collection of departments, agencies, commissions, and government corporations that implement and enforce federal laws.

Judicial Branch

Interprets laws, settles legal disputes, and ensures laws align with the U.S. Constitution.

Executive Branch

Enforces laws and administers public policy.

Legislative Branch

Creates laws; made up of Congress and several government agencies.

Affirmative Action

Policies intended to address workplace and educational disparities related to race, ethnic origin, gender, disability, and age.

Liberal Ideologies

Generally favor more national government involvement to address some social issues such as education and public health, with less responsibility for these issues left to state governments.

Conservative Ideologies

Generally favor less national government involvement to address some social issues such as education and public health, with more responsibility for these issues left to state governments.

Libertarian Ideologies

Generally favor little national OR state government involvement EXCEPT when protecting private property or individual liberty.

Concurrent Powers

These are shared between both the federal and state government, such as the power to collect taxes, make and enforce laws, and build roads.

Declaration of Independence

Drafted by Thomas Jefferson (with help from John Adams and Benjamin Franklin); restates natural rights philosophy and provides a foundation for popular sovereignty.

Federalist Papers

Essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay; articulate the philosophy behind the Constitution, including federalism, separation of powers, and checks and balances.

Electoral College

The system used for electing the president by electors from each state rather than by popular or congressional vote.

Commerce Clause

Gives the national government the power to regulate interstate trade.

Clause

A specific provision or section within a legal document such as a constitution or statute that outlines particular rights, obligations, or regulations.

Natural Rights

All people have certain rights that cannot be taken away.

Separation of Powers

The government system that splits the roles of government into different parts.

Equal Protection Clause

Part of the 14th amendment that gives the national government the power to enforce protections for any person against the states.