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Popular Consent
The idea that governments derive their power from the consent of the governed, usually expressed through voting.
Popular Sovereignty
The principle that the authority of the government is created and sustained by the people.
Majority Rule
A foundational democratic principle where the preferences of the majority dictate public policy.
Limited Government
A political system where legalized force is restricted through delegated and enumerated powers.
Confederacy
A union of sovereign states for common action, often with limited central authority.
Republic
A form of government where representatives are elected to make decisions on behalf of the people.
Democracy
A system of government in which citizens directly participate or vote on laws and policies.
Pluralist Theory
Theory suggesting that many groups compete and counterbalance each other in politics.
Elite Theory
Theory that wealthy and powerful elites influence policies.
Hyperpluralism
Theory that too many groups lead to weakened government effectiveness.
Bureaucratic Theory
Theory that bureaucracies hold significant power due to their expertise.
Articles of Confederation
The first U.S. government, which created a loose confederation with a weak central authority.
Great Compromise
Compromise establishing a bicameral legislature, with the House based on population and the Senate equal.
3/5 Compromise
Agreement that slaves would be counted as 3/5 of a person for representation purposes.
Commerce and Slave Trade Compromise
Limited Congress’s power over trade and slavery for 20 years.
Federalism
The division of power between the national government and state governments.
Separation of Powers
The distribution of governmental powers among executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
Checks and Balances
System where each branch has powers to check the others to prevent dominance.
Federalist
A supporter of a strong central government and the Constitution.
Antifederalist
A person who fears central power and advocates for a Bill of Rights.
Federalist 10
An essay advocating for a large republic to control factions.
Federalist 51
Essay emphasizing checks and balances and the separation of powers.
Brutus 1
An Anti-Federalist essay warning that a large central government would lead to tyranny.
The Preamble
Introduction to the Constitution outlining its purpose: justice, peace, defense, welfare, liberty.
Electoral College
Body that formally elects the President, consisting of electors from each state.
Habeas Corpus
The right to be brought before a judge if detained.
Bills of Attainder
Laws declaring guilt without a trial; these are prohibited.
Ex Post Facto Laws
Laws that criminalize past actions; these are prohibited.
Elastic Clause
Allows Congress to pass laws necessary for executing its enumerated powers.
Supremacy Clause
Establishes the Constitution and federal laws as the supreme law of the land.
Full Faith and Credit Clause
Mandates that states must respect other states’ laws and judicial rulings.
Senators’ Terms
Senators serve 6-year terms.
Representatives’ Terms
Representatives serve 2-year terms.
Methods of Choosing Officials
House is elected by the people; Senators were originally chosen by state legislatures.
Amending the Constitution
Requires a proposal by 2/3 of both Houses or a convention and ratification by 3/4 of states.
Powers Granted to Congress
Includes taxation, defense, interstate commerce, coin money, and declare war.
Where Tax Bills Begin
Originate in the House of Representatives per the Origination Clause.
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