quiz Flashcards
what is the purpose of the preamble
we the people. to set goal for our country. ex: to form a more perfect union, this establishes a goal of cooperation among the states and between the states and national government.
what are the purpose of the articles
establish and define the powers of the three main branches of government . Ex: Art 1 is the legislative=it lays out of the powers of the congress, including the power to make laws
what are the purpose of the amendments?
to list formal changes to the constitution, and ensure the protection of individuals civil liberties. ex: 1st amendment
what is the differenze between enumerated powers and implied powers
enumerated is powers that are actually states in the constitution. Ex: confess has the power to collect taxes, implied powers allow congress to make all laws necessary to carry out their duties
how is power divided up between the 3 branches? why is power divided the way it is?
equally so that not one branch gains too much power. They divide power and responsibility in such a way that no single branch becomes too powerful
how many amendments have been put before congress? how many have actually been ratified?
the constitution has been amended 27 times, even though there have been 11000 amendments proposed
what is the 2-step amendment process
amendments may be proposed either by congress through a joint resolution passed by a 2/3 vote, or by a convention called by congress in response from 2/3 state legislatures
why is it difficult to add an amendment?
it takes 2/3 vote in both the house and senate, then ratification by three quarters of the states. if we can add just anytime we would add so many, so it would be insatiable unnecessary, no corruption.
what are the bill of rights
the 10 first amendment of the constitution
popular sovereignty
power resides with the people, and people elect their leaders
ex: we elect our representative house and senate (congress member)
rule of law
government is guided by laws rather than by individual or group
ex: constitution is a supreme law of the land
separation of powers and check and balances
powers are divided into three government branches, and the system of check and balances limits the power of any one branch
ex: congress must present every propose law to the precedent for approval
federalism
power is divided between the central government and the individual governments
ex: amendment process
independent judiciary
the traditional branches is separate to prevent abuse of power and influences by the other two branches
ex: judges hold office for life and pay cannot be lowered while in office individual rights
individual rights
civilities liberties and basic rights are guaranteed
ex: any of the amendments