United States Constitution AP US History

Flashcards about the United States Constitution and its principles.

What event led to the recognition of the Articles of Confederation's weaknesses and the need for a new constitution?

The Articles of Confederation proved too weak to deal with the nation’s growing problems.

What was the original purpose of the Constitutional Convention held in Philadelphia?

To revise the Articles of Confederation

Who is known as the "Father of the Constitution"?

James Madison

What is the introduction to the Constitution called, which lists the purposes and goals of the new government?

The Preamble

What is the definition of Democracy as it relates to the fundamental principles of the Constitution?

A system of majority rule with legal protection for minority rights.

What is the definition of Republic as it relates to the fundamental principles of the Constitution?

The people elect representatives to rule on their behalf.

What is meant by Separation of Powers in the context of the U.S. Constitution?

Divides power between the branches of the federal government.

What is the fundamental principle of Checks and Balances?

A system designed to keep any branch from becoming too powerful.

What is the fundamental principle of Federalism?

Divides power between the state and the federal governments.

What is the main purpose of the Legislative branch?

The main job of the Legislative branch is to make laws.

How is membership in the House of Representatives determined?

There are 435 members determined by a state’s population.

How many senators does each state have, and what is their term length?

There are 100 members with each state having 2 Senators. Length of term: 6 years

What does it mean to impeach a member of the federal government?

To formally accuse a member of the federal government with wrongdoing.

What is the purpose of the Electoral College?

A system to "check" the popular vote (votes given by the people of the United States).

How are the number of electoral votes allocated to each state?

Each state is given a number of electoral votes equal to its representatives plus senators.

What are the qualifications to be president of the United States?

1. Natural born citizen 2. At least 35 years old 3. Lived in the US for at least 14 years

What is the main job of the Executive Branch?

To enforce the laws.

What power does the Supreme Court have in relation to federal laws and presidential actions?

The Supreme Court has the power of judicial review which means it can determine the constitutionality of federal laws and presidential actions.

What is eminent domain?

The government can take private property for public use with fair payment.

How can the President's veto be overridden by Congress?

If it is rejected, the bill goes back to Congress where the President’s veto can be overridden by a 2/3 vote in both houses of Congress.

What is the Bill of Rights?

The first 10 amendments added to the Constitution in 1791.

What are the five freedoms protected by the First Amendment?

Freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition.

What does 'due process' mean?

Authorities must follow a standard set of procedures.

What does the 13th Amendment pertain to?

Ended slavery

What did the 19th amendment accomplish?

Gave women the right to vote

What age group was given the right to vote by the 26th Amendment?

Allows 18 year olds to vote.

Is the US Flag code punishable by law?

It is not currently punishable by law

What are the qualifications for voting in Illinois?

To vote in Illinois, one must be at least 18 years old, a citizen, a registered voter in the district in which he/she lives, and a resident of Illinois for at least 30 days.