unit 1 foundations

Which foundational document outlines the principles of democracy in the United States?

The Declaration of Independence.

What is the primary purpose of the Constitution?

To establish the framework of the federal government and outline the rights of the individual.

Which system of government is characterized by dividing powers between a central government and state governments?

Federalism.

What term refers to the right of the people to vote directly on legislation?

Direct democracy.

Which principle prevents any one branch of government from becoming too powerful?

Checks and balances.

What amendment introduced the concept of federalism by reserving powers to the states?

The Tenth Amendment.

What form of representation is characterized by representatives elected by the citizens?

Representative democracy.

Which event highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?

Shays' Rebellion.

What is the term for the government’s ability to take private property for public use?

Eminent domain.

Which document serves as the supreme law of the land?

The Constitution.

What principle ensures that laws passed by Congress do not violate the Constitution?

Judicial review.

Which amendment provides the right to free speech?

The First Amendment.

What is the main argument in Federalist No. 10?

The dangers of faction and how a large republic can help control those dangers.

What concept is emphasized by the idea that government derives its power from the consent of the governed?

Popular sovereignty.

Which clause in the Constitution allows Congress to make laws that are necessary and proper?

The Necessary and Proper Clause.

What is the term for a political system where power resides in the hands of the people?

Democracy.

In the context of American government, what does the term 'republic' signify?

A form of government in which representatives are elected and the affairs of the state are a public matter.

What was one major outcome of the Great Compromise at the Constitutional Convention?

The establishment of a bicameral legislature, combining the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Which principle allows the Supreme Court to declare acts of Congress unconstitutional?

Judicial review.

What is the significance of the Bill of Rights?

It guarantees individual liberties and protects citizens from government overreach.

Which principle is demonstrated by the distribution of powers across different branches of government?

Separation of powers.