Final Exam Review Flashcards
Explain the relationship between key provisions of the Articles of Confederation and the debate over granting the federal government greater power formerly reserved to the states
The Articles of Confederation established a weak central government, triggering a debate over the need to grant more power to the federal government, because The Articles had problems in areas such as taxation & maintaining order. This debate ended in the drafting of the U.S. Constitution, which created a balanced distribution of powers between the federal government & the states
Explain the ongoing impact of political negotiation and compromise at the Constitutional Convention on the development of the constitutional system
Negotiation & compromise at the Constitutional Convention shaped the development of the constitutional system by fostering a delicate balance of powers. The resulting compromises, such as the Great Compromise and the Three-Fifths Compromise, addressed differing state interests, creating a framework that accommodated both large and small states. This balance remains fundamental to the structure of the U.S. government, influencing the design of the legislative branch & the overall functionality of the constitutional system
Explain the principles and implications of separation of powers & checks and balances
The separation of powers divides governmental authority into three branches—executive, legislative, and judicial—to prevent the abuse of power. Checks and balances ensure each branch has some influence over others, preventing one from dominating. This system promotes accountability, protects individual liberties, fosters stability and prevents tyranny
Explain how societal needs affect the constitutional allocation of power between the national and state governments
Societal needs influence the constitutional allocation of power by shaping the balance between national and state governments. Over time, shifts in priorities may lead to adjustments in this balance to address evolving challenges. Constitutional interpretations often reflect the changing needs and values of society, impacting the distribution of powers between the federal and state levels of government.
