Chapter 2 Flashcards
constitution
A nation’s basic law. It creates political institution, assigns or divides powers in government, and often provides certain guarantees to citizens. Constitutions can be written or unwritten
Declaration of Independence
The document approved by representatives of the American colonies in 1776 that stated their grievances against the British monarch and declared there independence
natural rights
Rights inherent in human beings, not dependent on governments which include life, liberty, and property. The concept of natural rights was central to English philosopher John Locke’s theories about government, and was widely accepted among America’s Founding Fathers
consent of the governed
The idea that government derives its authority by sanction of the people
limited government
The idea that certain restrictions should be placed on government to protect the natural rights of citizens
Articles of confederation
The first constitution of the United states, adopted by Congress in 1777 and enacted in 1781. The articles established a national legislature, the continental congress, but most authority rested with the state legislature
Shay’s rebellion
Aseries of attacks on courthouses by a small band of farmers led by revolutionary war Captain Daniel Shays to block foreclosure proceedings.
US constitution
The document written in 1787 and ratified in 1788 that sets forth the institutional structure of US government and the tasks these institutions perform. replaced the AOC
factions
Interest groups arising from unequal distribution of property or wealth that James Madison attacked in Federalist papers #10
New Jersey Plan
Equal representation in the choices of government
Virginia plan
Representation based on states population in government choices
Connecticut compromise
New jersey plan=Senate
Virginia plan=House of representatives
writ of habeas corpus
A court order requiring jailers to explain to a judge why they are holding a prisoner in custody
Separation of powers
A feature of the constitution that requires the three branches of government cant control each other and power is shared equally
checks and balances
limits governments power by requiring that power be balanced among the different governmental institutions
Federalists
supporters of the US constitution
Anti-Federalists
Opposition of the US constitution
Federalists Papers
A collection of 85 articles written by Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, and James Madison under the “Publius” to defend the constitution in detail
Bill of Rights
the first ten amendments to the US constitution
Equal rights amendment
An amendment passed in 1972 stating that rights will not be denied to anybody based on gender.
Marbury v. Madison
established the court’s power of judicial review over acts of congress.
judicial review
The power of the courts to decide whether the acts of congress are in accord with the US constitution
republic
A form of government in which the people select representatives to govern them and make laws.
