Chapter 2 Flashcards
Declaration of Independence
The document approved by representatives of the American colonies in 1776 that stated their grievances against the British monarch and declare their independence
Constitution
nation’s basic law. Creates political institution, assigns or divides Powers in government and often provides certain guarantees to citizens
Natural Rights
Rights inherent in human beings not dependent on governments
Consent of the governed
Idea that government derives its authority by sanction of the people
Limited government
Idea that certain restrictions should be placed on government to protect the natural rights of citizens
Articles of Confederation
The articles established a national legislation the Continental of Congress but most authority rested with the state legislatures
Shays Rebellion
A series of attacks on court houses by a small band of farmers
U.S. Constitution
Sets forth the institutional structure of the US government and the tasks these institutions perform
Factions
Interest groups arising from the unequal distribution of property or wealth
New Jersey Plan
Proposal at the constitutional convention that called for equal representation of each state in congress
Virginia Plan
Proposal at constitutional convention that called for representation for each state in congress in proportion to that state’s share of U.S population
Connecticut Compromise
Two houses of Congress ; House of Representatives and the Senate
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
executive, legislative and judicial
Checks and balances
Features of constitution that limit government’s power by requiring that power be balanced
