Ap Government

Participatory Democracy

The theory that widespread political participation is essential for democratic government.

Pluralist Democracy

The theory that emphasizes the role of nongovernmental groups in the policymaking process.

Elite Theory

The theory that elites have a disproportionate amount of influence in the policymaking process.

Totalitarian Government

A system in which the government holds absolute control over all aspects of public and private life, often led by a single leader or party.

Authoritarian Government

A system of government in which power is concentrated in the hands of a single ruler or small group.

Representative Democracy

A system of government in which citizens elect officials to make decisions and pass laws on their behalf.

Madison

Considered the 'father' of the Constitution.

Constitution

A document that sets out the fundamental principles of governance and establishes the institutions of government.

Republic

A government ruled by representatives of the people.

Articles of Confederation

America's first national governing document, adopted in 1777, which created a weak national government.

Shays's Rebellion

An uprising that demonstrated the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and the incapacity of the national government to respond effectively.

Great Compromise

A solution that created a bicameral Congress with representation based on population in the House and equal representation in the Senate.

Federalism

Power shared between the national government and state governments.

Separation of Powers

The division of power among three branches of government: legislative, executive, and judicial.

Checks and Balances

A system that allows each branch of government to limit the powers of the other branches.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the Constitution, which protect individual rights and limit government power.

Federalists

Those who supported the Constitution and a strong national government.

Antifederalists

Those who opposed the Constitution as originally written, favoring stronger state governments.

Federalist No. 10

An essay by James Madison discussing the dangers of factions and advocating for a large republic to mitigate their effects.

Federalist No. 51

An essay by James Madison emphasizing the need for checks and balances within government.

Brutus No. 1

An Antifederalist writing that expressed fear of a powerful national government dominating states.

Amendment Process

The process for making formal changes to the Constitution, requiring a 2/3 vote for proposal and a 3/4 vote for ratification.