Review of the Constitution's Adoption and Structure

A collection of vocabulary flashcards based on the lecture notes reviewing the adoption and structure of the U.S. Constitution.

Weakness of Articles

Refers to the lack of centralized power in the Articles of Confederation, leading to difficulties in governance, finance, and defense.

The Great Compromise

An agreement during the Constitutional Convention that established a bicameral legislature with equal representation in the Senate and proportional representation in the House.

3/5 Compromise

An agreement reached during the Constitutional Convention that determined how slaves would be counted for representation and taxation, considering each slave as three-fifths of a person.

Virginia Plan

Proposal for Congress that favored larger states, featuring a bicameral legislature based on population.

New Jersey Plan

Proposal for Congress that favored smaller states, featuring a unicameral legislature and equal representation.

Federalists

Supporters of the new Constitution who favored a strong national government.

Anti-Federalists

Opponents of the new Constitution who advocated for a weaker national government and strong state governments.

Electoral College

System established for electing the President; electors from each state select the President.

Articles of Confederation

The first plan of government for the United States, characterized by a weak federal government.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the Constitution that guarantee individual freedoms.

Tribal Sovereignty

The right of Native American tribes to govern themselves within the United States.

Bicameral

Refers to a legislative body that has two chambers or houses.

Constitution

The fundamental legal framework of the United States, outlining the principles and structure of the government.

Confederation

A union of states or groups that come together for a common purpose, often retaining their individual sovereignty.

Ratified

The formal approval of a proposal or agreement, such as an amendment to the Constitution.

Shays' Rebellion

An armed uprising in 1786-1787 in Massachusetts, protesting economic injustices and ultimately highlighting the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.

Delegate

A representative appointed to act on behalf of others, particularly at conventions or legislative assemblies.

George Washington

The first President of the United States and a key figure in the drafting of the Constitution, presiding over the Constitutional Convention.

Constitutional Convention

The gathering that took place in 1787 to draft the new Constitution of the United States.