Constitutional Democracy and the U.S. Constitution

A series of flashcards covering key concepts, definitions, and events related to Constitutional Democracy and the U.S. Constitution.

Constitutionalism

The belief that a government's power should be limited.

Magna Carta

A cornerstone document from 1215 that partially restricted the power of the British monarch.

Constitutional Democracy

A government founded on popular sovereignty with limited powers.

Social Contract Theory

A voluntary agreement among individuals to form a government providing security.

Thomas Hobbes

Philosopher known for his work 'Leviathan' advocating for absolutism.

John Locke

Philosopher known for 'Two Treatises' promoting constitutionalism.

Jean-Jacques Rousseau

Philosopher known for 'Social Contract' and his concept of the general will.

Articles of Confederation

The first governing document of the U.S. which created a loose confederation of states.

Shays' Rebellion

An armed uprising in 1786 that highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.

Federalists

Supporters of a stronger national government who wrote the 'Federalist Papers'.

Anti-Federalists

Opponents of a strong national government who favored states' rights.

Bill of Rights

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

Checks and Balances

A system that ensures no branch of government becomes too powerful.

Amendment Process

The procedure for changing the Constitution, requiring proposal and ratification.

Virginia Plan

A proposal for a new federal government structure favoring large states.

New Jersey Plan

A proposal that favored smaller states by maintaining equal representation.

Great Compromise

An agreement that created a bicameral legislature to balance representation.

Ratification

The official approval of the U.S. Constitution by the states.

Bicameralism

A legislative system with two chambers or houses, as established in the U.S. Congress.

Sovereignty

The ultimate authority in governing, held by the people in a democracy.

Legitimacy

The acceptance by the public that a government has the right to rule.