The Ultimate Guide to AP United States Government and Politics (copy)

What is Republicanism?

A political ideology that supports individualism and natural rights, popular sovereignty, and encourages civic participation.

Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?

Thomas Jefferson.

What were the main weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?

Could not impose taxes, had no national military, no national currency, and required unanimous votes to amend.

What was Shays' Rebellion?

A major concern at the Constitutional Convention that exposed the issues with the Articles of Confederation and showed the necessity of a strong central government.

What did Federalist No. 10 address?

The dangers of factions and how to protect minority interest groups in a nation ruled by the majority.

What is the significance of Federalist No. 51?

It argued that separation of powers would make the government efficient by dividing responsibilities and tasks.

What power does the executive branch have according to Federalist No. 70?

The executive branch should only have one member: the president.

What does Federalist No. 78 discuss regarding the judiciary?

It argues that the judicial branch would have the least amount of power under the Constitution but would have the power of judicial review.

What is the Legislative branch responsible for?

It is responsible for creating laws.

What is a Categorical grant?

Aid with strict rules from the federal government about how it is used.

What is the difference between Categorical and Block grants?

Categorical grants have strict rules on usage, while Block grants allow states more flexibility in how to use the funds.

What is the role of the Speaker of the House?

The leader and presiding officer of the House of Representatives chosen by the majority party.

What is gerrymandering?

Drawing district boundaries to give a political party a future advantage.

What is the process for a bill to become law?

A bill must be proposed, passed in both houses of Congress, and then signed by the president to become law.

What is the purpose of the impeachment process?

To remove a president for committing crimes.

What does the term 'judicial activism' refer to?

A judge who readily overturns an act of legislation.

What must happen for a bill to be pocket vetoed?

The president does not sign the bill during the last 10 days of Congressional session.

What is the War Powers Act?

A law intended to limit the president's ability to engage in military action without congressional approval.

What type of bureaucracy helps carry out the president's administrative responsibilities?

The Executive Office of the President.

What is federalism?

The way in which federal and state governments interact and share power.

What is a referendum?

A direct vote in which an entire electorate is invited to vote on a particular proposal and can result in the adoption of new laws.

What is the Voting Rights Act of 1965?

Legislation that aimed to eliminate barriers to voting for African Americans and to increase minority representation in Congress.

What is the primary responsibility of the President as Commander in Chief?

To direct the military and manage the armed forces.

What does the Cabinet consist of?

Departments created by acts of Congress to control executive branch responsibilities, led by secretaries appointed by the president.

What does 'judicial restraint' mean in the context of the judiciary?

Judges who are hesitant to overturn legislation and prefer to uphold the laws passed by the legislature.

What is mixed economic policy?

An economy that incorporates elements of both capitalism and government intervention.

What is the significance of the Grand Jury?

A group that decides whether there is enough evidence for a trial in criminal cases.

What is the difference between mandatory and discretionary spending?

Mandatory spending is required by law, while discretionary spending is not and includes budgeting for various programs.

What is the role of Public opinion polls?

They measure public opinion frequently and directly regarding various issues.

What is the concept of 'Saliency' in public opinion?

The degree to which an issue is important to a certain individual or group.

What are the main characteristics of public opinion?

Saliency, Intensity, and Stability.