AP-US-Government-and-Politics-Study-Guide

Constitution: The supreme law of the land that outlines the framework of the government and the rights of citizens.

Bill of Rights: The first ten amendments to the Constitution that guarantee individual liberties. Separation of Powers: The division of government responsibilities into distinct branches to limit any one branch from exercising the core functions of another. Checks and Balances: A system that ensures that no branch of government becomes too powerful by providing each branch with specific powers to limit the actions of the others.

Federalism: A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, often establishing a balance between state and national interests.

Judicial Review: The power of courts to assess whether a law is in violation of the Constitution, serving as a critical check on legislative and executive actions.

Civil Liberties: Fundamental rights and freedoms guaranteed to individuals, often protected from government infringement, including freedoms of speech, assembly, and religion.

Civil Rights: The rights of individuals to receive equal treatment under the law, aimed at preventing discrimination based on characteristics such as race, gender, or disability.

Checks and Balances: A constitutional principle that ensures that no branch of government (executive, legislative, or judicial) can dominate the others, requiring cooperation among the branches and fostering accountability.