American Revolution and Foundational Government

These flashcards cover key events, figures, and concepts related to the American Revolution and the foundational government of the United States.

Lexington and Concord

The first battles of the American Revolution; known as the 'shot heard round the world.'

Treaty of Alliance

An agreement for French military support to the American colonies.

Yorktown

The final major battle of the American Revolution where the British surrendered.

Thomas Jefferson

Wrote the Declaration of Independence and the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom.

Benjamin Franklin

Negotiated the alliance with France and urged colonial unity.

George Washington

Leader of the Continental Army; maintained unity and morale among the troops.

Articles of Confederation

The first U.S. government; characterized by a weak central power.

James Madison

Known as the 'Father of the Constitution' and wrote much of the Bill of Rights.

House of Representatives

Part of Congress where representation is based on population.

Senate

Part of Congress providing equal representation for each state (2 senators per state).

Great Compromise

Created a bicameral legislature in the United States.

Constitution

The current governing document of the United States with checks and balances.

Virginia Plan

James Madison's proposal for a government with three branches.

Separation of Powers

Principle that no branch of government is more powerful than another.

Federalism

The distribution of power between state and national governments.

3/5 Compromise

Counted enslaved people as three-fifths of a person for representation purposes.

Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom

Served as the basis for guaranteeing religious liberty.

Virginia Declaration of Rights

Served as a model for the Bill of Rights.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the Constitution that protect individual liberties.

Federalists

Political group that supported a strong central government, including figures like Hamilton and Adams.

Anti-Federalists

Political group that feared central power and advocated for a Bill of Rights.