American Government: Final "Assessment" Review

What’s the difference between libel and slander?

One is written, printed or recorded slander. The other is spoken in speech, conversation, or broadcast.

Which Amendment is questioned in debates about capital punishment?

The 8th Amendment

What is the probable cause?

A 4th amendment standard: requires law enforcement to have sufficient evidence that a crime has been committed.

What speech is protected? What types of speech aren’t protected.

Protected: Political and social speech (views on government).

Unprotected: True threats to commit unlawful violence, fighting words, or obscenity.

If the president vetoes a bill, what happens to it?

The bill returns to Congress unsigned, with a message explaining their reasons and bill doesn’t become law. Congress can override veto and make a bill into law w/o President, needing a 2/3 majority vote In both chambers.

Article II of the U.S Constitution structures the government by?

By establishing the Executive Branch, headed by a single President. Also mentions executive power of president (Commander in Chief of military, making treaties, etc.) and the Electoral College.

What are the Constitutional Requirements to become President?

Must be: a natural born citizen of the U.S, at least 35 years old, and a resident in the U.S for at least 14 years.

Much of the Declaration of Independence consists of…?

A detailed list of grievances and complaints against King George III and the British government. Key examples: Taxation w/o representation and dissolving colonial legislatures.

What are the first Five Rights guaranteed from Bill of Rights?

1.Speech, Religion, Assembly, Press, Petition of Gov’t.

2: Firearms

3: No Quartering in Soldiers Homes

4: Unreasonable Search and Seizure
5: Rights against self-incrimination and double Jeopardy in court hearings

What are the last 5 Rights Guaranteed by the Bill of Rights?

6: Right to a speedy and public trial (criminals can get a lawyer)

7: Right to Jury Trial in federal court cases exceeding $20

8: Cruel and Unusual Punishment

9: Rights not explicitly listed in BOR (Bill of Rights) are still retained by people and can’t be violated by gov’t

10: Powers not given to gov’tbelong to individual states/people.

How can the Legislative Branch check the Judicial Branch?

By controlling Judicial appointments, determining Court Jurisdiction, and Initiating Amendments to overturn rulings.

What is the purpose of the Necessary and Proper Clause?

It allows Congress to create laws not explicitly mentioned in the Constituiton. Often called the “Elastic Clause” because it can be flexible to meet changing national needs over time.