Gov Midterm

Representative Democracy

A system of government where people elect individuals to make decisions on their behalf.

Shay’s Rebellion

An uprising in 1786 by farmers in Massachusetts protesting economic hardships, leading to a recognition that the government was too weak.

Social Contract Theory

A theory proposed by John Locke, where people agree to give up certain freedoms in exchange for protection by the government.

Articles of Confederation

The first constitution of the United States (1777-1787), establishing a weak central government with limited powers.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the Constitution, added to appease states worried about the new constitution.

New Jersey Plan

A proposal for the legislature to have equal representation for each state, favored by smaller states.

Virginia Plan

A proposal that called for proportional representation in the legislature, favored by larger states.

Great Compromise

An agreement to create a bicameral legislature, combining elements of the New Jersey and Virginia Plans.

U.S. Constitution 1787

The foundational document outlining the structure of government and establishing federal authority.

Federalists

Supporters of the new, stronger Constitution, including figures like Alexander Hamilton and James Madison.

Anti-federalists

Opponents of the new Constitution, including Thomas Jefferson and Patrick Henry.

Checks and Balances

A principle where each branch of government has distinct powers and can oversee the others to prevent abuse.

Federalism

A system of government where power is divided between federal, state, and local levels.

Civil Liberties

Freedoms that protect individuals from government overreach, primarily protected by the Bill of Rights.

Impeachment

The process by which government officials can be held accountable by Congress through formal charges.

Reserved Powers (10th Amendment)

Powers not granted to the federal government nor denied to the states belong to the states.

Supremacy Clause

Article 6 of the Constitution establishing that federal law takes precedence over state laws.

Full Faith and Credit Clause

A clause requiring states to recognize and enforce the public acts and judicial decisions of other states.

Block Grants

Federal funds provided to states for specific projects, allowing some flexibility in how the money is used.

Ex Post Facto Laws

Laws that would punish actions that were legal when committed, prohibited by Article 1 of the Constitution.

Due Process Clause

Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments stipulating that government must follow legal procedures before depriving a person of life, liberty, or property.

Establishment Clause

A clause in the First Amendment prohibiting the government from establishing an official religion.

Free Exercise Clause

A clause in the First Amendment ensuring individuals can practice their religion freely.

Right to Privacy

An implicit right protected by various amendments, safeguarding against government intrusion in personal matters.

Rights of the Accused

Rights guaranteed in the Sixth Amendment, including the right to a speedy and public trial, an impartial jury, and representation.

Voting Rights Act (1965)

Legislation prohibiting racial discrimination in voting, allowing federal intervention in elections.

Civil Rights Movement

A social movement from 1954 to 1968 aimed at achieving equal rights for African Americans, led by figures like MLK.

Desegregation

The process of eliminating segregation based on race, religion, or culture.

Voter Registration

The process by which eligible citizens sign up to vote, varying by state.

Negative Advertisement

Political ads that aim to undermine opponents by highlighting their weaknesses.

Opinion Polls

Surveys that measure public opinion regarding candidates or policy proposals.