Government & Constitution Flashcards

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key principles, constitutional amendments, foundational documents, and Enlightenment thinkers based on the lecture notes.

Establish Justice

Create a fair system where laws are applied fairly.

Insure Domestic Tranquility

Keep peace and order within the country.

Provide for the Common Defense

Protect the country from foreign threats.

Promote the General Welfare

Support the well-being and needs of the people.

Blessings of Liberty

Protect people's freedoms and rights.

John Locke

Philosopher who supported natural rights: life, liberty, and property, and believed people can replace a government that violates their rights.

English Bill of Rights

Protected individual rights and limited the power of the king.

Thomas Hobbes

Believed people need a strong government to maintain order.

Montesquieu

Supported separation of powers between branches of government.

Declaration of Independence

Declared independence from Britain and explained why the colonies had the right to separate.

Articles of Confederation

America's first government; created a weak central government and strong states.

Federalist

Supported a stronger federal government and the Constitution.

Anti-Federalist

Wanted a weaker federal government and stronger states; supported adding a Bill of Rights.

Constitution

The supreme law of the U.S. government.

Federalism

Power is divided between the federal and state governments.

Necessary and Proper Clause

Gives Congress implied powers needed to carry out its duties.

Judicial Review

The power of courts to decide whether laws are constitutional.

Checks and Balances

Each branch can limit the power of the other branches.

Popular Sovereignty

Government gets its power from the people.

Separation of Powers

Government power is divided into three branches.

Limited Government

Government power is restricted by laws and the Constitution.

Amendment Process

The process for changing or adding to the Constitution.

1st Amendment

Protects rights regarding religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition.

Establishment Clause

Government cannot establish or officially favor a religion.

Free Exercise Clause

Protects the right to practice your religion.

2nd Amendment

Protects the right to keep and bear arms.

4th Amendment

Protects against unreasonable searches and seizures.

5th Amendment

Guarantees due process, no self-incrimination, and no double jeopardy.

Eminent Domain

Government can take private property for public use with compensation.

6th Amendment

Guarantees rights to a speedy/public trial, impartial jury, attorney, and knowing the charges.

8th Amendment

Prohibits excessive bail/fines or cruel and unusual punishment.

10th Amendment

Powers not given to the federal government are reserved for states or the people.

14th Amendment

Guarantees due process and equal protection. Provided equal rights for freed slaves.

Equal Protection Clause

Government must treat people equally under the law.