Balance of Power and Federalism in Government

Flashcards covering key vocabulary related to the balance of power in government, federalism, and constitutional principles.

10th Amendment

Reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states or the people.

Commerce Clause

Grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations, among the states, and with Native American tribes.

Necessary and Proper Clause

Enables Congress to make all laws deemed necessary and proper for executing its powers.

Selective Incorporation

The process by which certain rights found in the Bill of Rights are applied to the states via the Fourteenth Amendment.

Federalism

A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units.

"Explain how grants, incentives, and programs meet federal societal changes and balance power."

• Grants: Funds the federal government gives to states, local governments, or organizations for specific purposes (e.g., education, healthcare, infrastructure).

• Incentives: Financial or policy-based rewards designed to encourage certain behaviors (e.g., tax breaks for renewable

Document: Declaration of Independence

Describe Purpose:

To declare the American colonies’ separation from Britain and justify the decision by listing grievances against King George III.

TL;DR:

America breaks up with Britain — all people have natural rights like life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Dual Federalism

A system where state and national governments operate independently within their own spheres of authority.

Cooperative Federalism

A system where national, state, and local governments interact cooperatively to solve common problems.

Factions

Groups of individuals, such as interest groups, that unite to pursue their own agendas and influence political outcomes.

Great Compromise

Established a bicameral legislature with proportional representation in the House and equal representation in the Senate.

Electoral College

The body that elects the President and Vice President of the United States, comprised of electors from each state.

Three-Fifths Compromise

Provided that three-fifths of the enslaved population would be counted for representation and taxation purposes.