Chapter 2: Constructing a Government Flashcards
Articles of Confederation
America’s first written constitution. Adopted by the Continental Congress in 1777, the Articles were the formal basis for America’s national government until 1789, when they were superseded by the Constitution.
Great Compromise
An agreement reached at the Constitutional Convention of 1787 that gave each state an equal number of senators regardless of its population but linked representation in the House of Representatives to population.
Three-Fifths Compromise
An agreement reached at the Constitutional Convention of 1787 stipulating that for purposes of the apportionment of congressional seats, every slave would be counted at three-fifths of a person.
bicameralism
The division of a legislative assembly into two chambers, or houses.
Expressed Powers
The powers enumerated in the Constitution that are granted to the federal government.
necessary and proper clause
Article 1, Section 8, of the Constitution, which enumerates that powers of Congress and provides Congress with the authority to make all laws “necessary and proper” to carry them out; also referred to as the elastic clause
Judicial Review
The power of the courts to declare actions of the legislative and executive branches invalid or unconstitutional. The Supreme Court asserted this power in Marbury v. Madison (1803)
Supremacy Clause
A clause of Article VI of the Constitution that states that all laws passed by the national government and all treaties are the supreme laws of the land and superior to all laws adopted by any state or any subdivision.
Separation of powers
The division of governmental power among several institutions that must cooperate in decision making.
Federalism
The system of government in which a constitution divides power between a central government and regional government.
Bill of Rights
The first 10 amendments to the US Constitution, adopted in 1791. Ensures certain rights and liberties to the people.
Checks and Balances
The mechanisms through which each branch of government is able to participate in and influence the activities of the other branches.
Federalists
Supported a strong central government that included autonomous political power retained by the states.
Anti-Federalists
Opposed the creation of a stronger national government, arguing that a Constitution would threaten citizens’ personal liberties.
Tyranny
Oppressive government that employs the cruel and unjust use of power and authority.
