Basic Principles of the Constitution, Federalists vs. Anti-Federalists, and Constitutional Change Over Time

30 flashcards in Question and Answer style covering basic principles of the Constitution, the Federalists vs. Anti-Federalists debate, and constitutional change over time.

Which principle states that governmental authority is derived from the people?

Popular Sovereignty

What is the idea that government only has the powers granted by the Constitution called?

Limited Government

Which principle divides power between state and national governments?

Federalism

What is the distribution of governmental powers among three independent branches known as?

Separation of Powers

What principle allows each branch of government to restrain the others?

Checks and Balances

Which of the following is an example of checks and balances?

The President vetoing a bill

Which of these illustrates limited government?

The Bill of Rights restricting Congress

Which principle reflects “consent of the governed”?

Popular Sovereignty

Which amendment most directly supports federalism?

10th Amendment

Congress making laws, the President enforcing laws, and courts interpreting laws best demonstrates what principle?

Separation of Powers

Which principle ensures no branch dominates the others?

Checks and Balances

The requirement that government follow the rule of law reflects which principle?

Limited Government

Who supported the ratification of the Constitution?

Federalists

Who demanded a Bill of Rights before supporting the Constitution?

Anti-Federalists

What was a major weakness of the Articles of Confederation?

No power to tax

Which clause did Federalists support to strengthen national power?

Necessary and Proper Clause

Which group feared the new Constitution would create tyranny?

Anti-Federalists

What compromise resolved the Federalist vs. Anti-Federalist debate?

Addition of the Bill of Rights

Which paper argued that “If men were angels, no government would be necessary”?

Federalist #51

Which Anti-Federalist argument most influenced later amendments?

Demand for explicit rights

Which leader was most associated with the Federalists?

Alexander Hamilton

Which leader was most associated with the Anti-Federalists?

Thomas Jefferson

Which case established judicial review?

Marbury v. Madison

Which amendment lowered the voting age to 18?

26th Amendment

Which amendment granted women the right to vote?

19th Amendment

Which law outlawed racial segregation in public facilities?

Civil Rights Act of 1964

Which law strengthened protections for minority voters?

Voting Rights Act of 1965

Which case overturned segregation in schools?

Brown v. Board of Education

Legislative oversight of the executive branch demonstrates which aspect of governance?

Informal Practice

Why is the U.S. Constitution considered a “living document”?

Amendments and interpretations adapt it to new circumstances