Chapter 2: The Constitution

Question 1

Constitution

Answer 1

A nation’s basic law. It creates political institutions, assigns or divides powers in government, and often provides certain guarantees to citizens.

Question 2

Declaration of Independence

Answer 2

The document approved by representatives of the American colonies in 1776 that stated their grievances against the British monarch and declared their independence.

Question 3

Natural Rights

Answer 3

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 founders.

Question 4

Consent of the Governed

Answer 4

The idea that government derives its authority by sanction of the people.

Question 5

Limited Government

Answer 5

The idea that certain restrictions should be placed on government to protect the natural rights of citizens.

Question 6

Articles of Confederation

Answer 6

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 legislatures.

Question 7

Shays’ Rebellion

Answer 7

A series of attacks on courthouses by a small band of farmers led by Revolutionary War Captain Daniel Shays to block foreclosure proceedings.

Question 8

U.S. Constitution

Answer 8

The document written in 1787 and ratified in 1788 that sets forth the institutional structure of U.S. government and the tasks these institutions perform. It replaced the Articles of Confederation.

Question 9

Factions

Answer 9

Interest groups arising from the unequal distribution of property or wealth that James Madison attacked in Federalist Paper No. 10.