Ch. 2 Flashcards
Articles of Confederation
America’s first written constitution; served as the basis for America’s national government until 1789
Confederation
A system of government in which states retain sovereign authority except for the powers expressly delegated to the national government
Virginia Plan
provided for a system of representation in the national legislature based on the population of each state or the proportion of each state’s revenue contribution to the national government, or both
New Jersey Plan
provided for a system of representation in the national legislature that was equal for all states
Great Compromise
The agreement between the Virginia and New Jersey Plans in which each state would get equal representation in the senate but the house of representatives would be based on population
3/5 Compromise
The agreement that stipulated that for purposes of apportionment of congressional seats only 3/5 of slaves would be counted
Bicameral
Having a legislative assembly composed of two houses
Checks and Balances
Mechanisms through which each branch of government is able to participate in and influence the activities of the other branches
Bill of Rights
The first ten amendments to the Constitution
Separation of government
The division of governmental power among several institutions that must cooperate in decision making
Federalism
A system of government in which power is divided, by a constitution, between a central government and regional governments
Expressed Powers
Specific powers granted by the Constitution to Congress
Elastic Clause
Allows Congress to make all laws “necessary and proper” to carry out its enumerated powers.
Judicial Review
The power of the courts to review and, if necessary, declare actions of the legislative or executive branches invalid or unconstitutional
Supremacy Clause
Laws passed by the national government and treaties are superior to any state’s (or other subdivision’s) laws
