U.S. Government, Congress, and the Bill of Rights

Vocabulary flashcards covering the Articles of the United States Constitution, key structural concepts of Congress, and the amendments within the Bill of Rights.

Preamble

The introduction to the Constitution.

Article 1

Establishes the legislative branch, which makes laws, and includes notes regarding filibusters.

Article 2

Establishes the executive branch, which ensures laws are followed.

Article 3

Establishes the judicial branch, which decides if laws are legal or not, and outlines the Supreme Court.

Article 4

Outlines states' powers, including the dos and don'ts for states.

Article 5

Explains how amendments work and how to make changes to the Constitution, involving votes in the Senate and House of Representatives.

Article 6

Establishes the Constitution as the supreme law of the land.

Article 7

Addresses ratification by explaining the procedure for constitutional approval.

Constituents

The people that a member of Congress represents.

House of Representatives (HOR)

The congressional chamber where representation is apportioned by population and members represent specific districts.

Senate

The congressional chamber where representation is allocated per state, consisting of $100$ voting members.

Declaration of War

A power that both chambers of Congress are able to exercise.

Impeachment Trial (Senate Role)

The constitutional trial proceeding held by the Senate.

Amendment 1

Guarantees fundamental freedoms, including speech and religion.

Amendment 2

Protects the right to keep and carry weapons.

Amendment 3

Protects against the Quartering Act, ensuring military troops cannot be housed with civilians without consent.

Amendment 4

Protects individuals from unreasonable searches.

Amendment 6

Guarantees that an accused person should receive a fair trial.

Amendment 7

Guarantees the right to a jury trial in federal courts.

Amendment 8

Protects individuals from cruel punishments and excessive bail.

Amendment 9

Protects rights of the people beyond those explicitly listed in the Constitution.