AP United States Government and Politics Study Guide

A collection of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to the AP United States Government and Politics exam.

Foundations of American Democracy

The foundation concepts underlying the structure and function of the American government including various forms of democracy like direct, participatory, representative, elite, majoritarian, and consensus democracy.

Natural Rights

Rights that individuals are born with that are not granted by government; includes life, liberty, and property according to John Locke.

Social Contract Theory

The theory stating that individuals consent to give up some freedoms to a government in exchange for protection of natural rights and the provision of public goods.

Articles of Confederation

The first constitution of the United States, established a weak national government that could not levy taxes or regulate commerce.

Shays’ Rebellion

An armed uprising in 1786-1787 protesting economic injustices and the inability of the government to provide support.

Great Compromise

The agreement during the Constitutional Convention that created a bicameral legislature, combining the Virginia and New Jersey plans.

Checks and Balances

System in the U.S. government where each branch can limit the powers of the others to prevent abuse of power.

Electoral College

A body of electors established by the Constitution, responsible for formally electing the President and Vice President of the United States.

Enumerated Powers

Powers specifically listed in the Constitution that are granted to the federal government.

Implied Powers

Powers not explicitly listed in the Constitution but derived from the Necessary and Proper Clause that allow the government to carry out its functions.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the Constitution, which specifically enumerate and protect individual rights.

Civil Rights

The rights of citizens to political and social freedom and equality, often secured by legislation and court rulings.

Federalism

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

Public Opinion Polling

The process of measuring public opinion through surveys of a representative sample of the population.

Political Ideology

A coherent set of beliefs about politics, public policy, and the role of government.

Voting Rights Act of 1965

Legislation that prohibits racial discrimination in voting, ensuring that all citizens have equal voting rights.

Interest Groups

Organizations that seek to influence government policy and decisions to benefit their members or causes.

Campaign Finance Regulation

Laws and regulations that govern the financial contributions to political campaigns and the spending of campaign funds.

Lobbying

The act of attempting to influence the decisions of government officials, often through direct contact or communication.