United States Government Flash Cards

Which document organized the first version of the United States government?

Articles of Confederation

Which describes a federal system of government?

Power is divided between the central government and the states

A federal system of government is a political structure where authority and powers are shared between a national government and regional governments, allowing for both levels to operate independently in certain areas.

What document is James Madison given the most credit for?

The United States Constitution

According to James Madison, what was the main flaw with the original U.S. central government?

Congress did not have enough power to enforce laws effectively.

Which amendment gives you the right to say what you think without the government interfering?

First Amendment

The First Amendment to the United States Constitution protects the freedom of speech, allowing individuals to express their thoughts without government interference.

What happens if a state law disagrees with the Constitution?

The Constitution is followed.

The Constitution prevails over state law, ensuring that federal laws are supreme.

Which are specified by the Constitution and drafted at the Constitutional Convention?

the process of electing leaders and the structure of the central government

Why does the Constitution call for separation of powers?

to prevent a single branch of the government from becoming to powerful

Each branch has distinct powers.

Which phrase from the preamble tells the reader that the government gets its power to make laws from the people?

“We the People of the United States”

What did the Virginia Plan propose?

The central government should provide for the people’s welfare.

The central government should protect against foreign enemies.

The central government should have more power than under the Articles of Confederation.