AP Government: Foundations, Power, and Purpose of U.S. Constitution

What is the primary purpose of government?

To allow a society to make and enforce public policies.

What are the three basic types of power in every government?

Legislative (to make laws), Executive (to enforce laws), Judicial (to interpret laws and settle disputes).

How is power structured in the U.S. government?

Power is split among Congress (legislative), the President (executive), and the Courts (judicial) to ensure accountability and limit power.

What are the four theories explaining the origins of the state?

Force theory, evolutionary theory, divine right, and social contract theory.

Who developed the Social Contract Theory?

Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau.

What does the Social Contract Theory mean?

People choose to give the state enough power to promote the well-being of everyone, and all political power comes from the will of the people.

What is the significance of the Preamble of the U.S. Constitution?

It emphasizes that 'We the People' hold the power and outlines the reasons for establishing the government.

What are the six reasons stated in the Preamble for establishing the government?

1. Form a more perfect union 2. Establish justice 3. Insure domestic tranquility 4. Provide for the common defense 5. Promote the general welfare 6. Secure the blessings of liberty.

What historical document was established in 1776?

The Declaration of Independence.

What was the purpose of the Articles of Confederation?

To create a confederation among states, but it failed to provide a strong central government.

What was one major issue with the Articles of Confederation?

There was not way to enforce laws. Also, states were just tolerating each other and had different currencies.

What does 'Establish justice' refer to in the Preamble of the U.S. Constitution?

It refers to creating a set system of laws and due process, with the Bill of Rights focusing on justice.

What is meant by "Insure domestic tranquility" in the Preamble of the U.S. Constitution?

It refers to keeping the country safe and peaceful through services like police, firefighters, and emergency response.

What does "Provide for the common defense" mean in the Preamble of the U.S. Constitution?

It involves maintaining military forces such as the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines, as well as border patrol.

What does "Promote the general welfare" entail in the Preamble of the U.S. Constitution?

Programs like Medicare, Social Security, free public education, and encouraging civic participation and good behavior, and institutions that promote those things as well (ie, churches).

What does "Secure the blessings of liberty" mean in the Preamble of the U.S. Constitution?

It outlines the rights of individuals and how they are protected, including the right to life and privacy.

When was the U.S. Constitution was ratified by all 13 states?

May 29, 1790.

What was a major fix implemented by the U.S. Constitution compared to the Articles of Confederation?

The creation of a stronger, more unified federal government with a separate executive, legislative, and judicial branch.

What role does the Bill of Rights play in the U.S. government?

It primarily focuses on justice and the protection of individual rights.

What are some examples of services that promote domestic tranquility?

Police forces, firefighters, 911 services, and snow plow employment.

What does the government do to promote civic participation?

It encourages organizations and institutions that foster good behavior and community involvement.

When was the Constitution adopted as the official law of the land? (9 states required to ratify before adoption)

June 21, 1788.