Major Concept Study

Vocabulary flashcards based on major concepts covered in the lecture notes.

Shays's Rebellion

A series of attacks on courthouses by farmers led by Daniel Shays to block foreclosure proceedings, highlighting the economic turmoil postwar.

Economic turmoil

Postwar depression left farmers unable to pay debts

Judicial Review

The power of the judiciary to determine the constitutionality of laws, established by the Supreme Court in Marbury v. Madison.

Gerrymandering

The manipulation of electoral district boundaries to favor one party or class over another in elections.

Political Socialization

The process through which individuals acquire their political beliefs and values.

Incorporation Doctrine

The legal concept that the Bill of Rights applies to state governments through the Fourteenth Amendment.

Clear and Present Danger Test

The standard set by the Supreme Court to determine when speech is not protected by the First Amendment.

Equal Protection Clause

Part of the Fourteenth Amendment that prohibits states from denying any person equal protection under the law.

American Exceptionalism

The idea that the United States is unique in its values and historical development, particularly regarding democracy and liberty.

Federalist Papers

A series of articles advocating for the ratification of the Constitution, outlining the principles of American government.