AP Gov Unit 1 Chapter 2

Mercantilism

An economic theory designed to increase wealth through the development of commercial industry and a favorable trade balance.

Stamp Act

A 1765 law passed by the British Parliament that forced American colonists to pay a direct tax on most printed paper, using official stamps as proof of payment.

Common Sense

A pamphlet written by Thomas Paine in 1775–1776 advocating independence from Great Britain to people in the Thirteen Colonies.

Declaration of Independence

Document drafted largely by Thomas Jefferson in 1776 that proclaimed the right of American colonies to separate from Great Britain.

Social Contract Theory

The belief that governments exist based on the consent of the governed.

Political Culture

The commonly held attitudes, behaviors, and core values about how government should operate.

Vietnam War

Conflict that led many to argue for lowering the voting age, culminating in the 26th Amendment.

26th Amendment

The amendment that lowered the voting age from 21 to 18.

French and Indian War

War that changed colonists' identity and prompted new taxes and regulations by Britain.

Articles of Confederation

The original governing document of the United States, creating a weak national government.

Shay’s Rebellion

An armed uprising led by Daniel Shays, exposing the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.

Great Compromise

Settled the disagreement between large and small states regarding representation in Congress.

Three-Fifths Compromise

Agreement that every five enslaved people would count as three people for representation.

Federalism

System in which power is divided between a national government and state governments.

Separation of Powers

Division of government authority among three branches: Legislative, Executive, and Judicial.

Checks and Balances

A system that allows each branch to limit the power of the other branches.

Federalist Papers

A series of essays written to convince New Yorkers to ratify the Constitution.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the Constitution, protecting individual liberties.

Constitutional Convention

Meeting held in 1787 to create a new governing document for the USA.

New Jersey Plan

Proposed a single-house legislature with equal representation for every state.

Virginia Plan

Proposed a strong national government with a bicameral legislature based on population.

Legislative Branch

The branch of government responsible for making laws.

Executive Branch

The branch of government that enforces laws.

Judicial Branch

The branch of government that interprets laws.

Amendment Process

Procedure for making changes to the Constitution, involving proposal and ratification.

Informal Amendments

Changes to the Constitution's interpretation or application without formally adding amendments.

Judicial Interpretation

The power of the Supreme Court to interpret the Constitution in new ways.

Presidential Action

Developing practices that influence how executive power is executed.

Political Parties

Organizations that influence government operations and functions.