Review of the Articles of Confederation and the Constitution

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from the lecture regarding the Articles of Confederation and the Constitution, focusing on definitions and understanding of important principles.

Ratification

Approval

Shays’ Rebellion

A rebellion by farmers highlighting the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.

Northwest Ordinance

Legislation that provided a method for admitting new states to the Union.

Three Fifths Compromise

An agreement counting slaves as three-fifths of a person for population purposes.

Implied Powers

Powers not explicitly stated in the Constitution but derived from its other provisions.

Enumerated Powers

Powers explicitly listed in the Constitution.

General Welfare Clause

Part of the Constitution allowing Congress to enact laws for the good of the country.

Elastic Clause

Another name for the Necessary and Proper Clause, enabling Congress to stretch its powers.

Federalism

System of government where power is divided between a central authority and constituent units.

Checks and Balances

Principle in which each branch of government can limit the powers of the others.

Separation of Powers

Division of government responsibilities into distinct branches: legislative, executive, and judicial.

Popular Sovereignty

The principle that government derives its authority from the consent of the governed.

Weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation

Lack of central authority, inability to tax, and no executive leadership.

Changes made in the Constitution

Improvements like establishing a chief executive and granting the power to levy taxes.

Importance of interpreting the Constitution

Allows for application of laws to current situations without the complex process of amending.

Limited Government

A fundamental principle that restricts governmental power, ensuring that no individual or group has absolute authority and protecting individual rights.

Individual rights

Fundamental freedoms and protections guaranteed to individuals against government infringement. (Bill of Rights)