Test Flashcards
- What are the four characteristics of a state?
- Population
- Territory
- Government
- Sovereignty
- What are the three ideals of American Democracy? Why are they so important?
- Liberty
- Equality
- Self Government
These are important because without them our government wouldn’t be a perfect democracy.
- What were the aims of the Continental Congresses?
To address the colonist’s mistreatment from the crown.
- How was the first national government organized under the Articles of Confederation?
Weak national government, with strong state governments. Delegates would meet to discuss national issues.
- What were the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?
They had no way to enforce laws, and policies.
They couldn’t tax.
Couldn’t regulate commerce or trade.
- What events convinced some American leaders that a stronger national government was needed?
Shay’s rebellion, Uncooperative states, and the Northwest Ordinance.
- What is popular sovereignty?
the idea that the government is ran by the people.
- What is limited government?
Powers, and functions of the government are limited by the constitution.
- Why might the Constitution be called a document for all time?
Because you can make amendments to the constitution that may be necessary if times/beliefs change.
- What criticisms have some people made of the Constitution?
- The system creates gridlock and its hard to pass things, or make change.
- Not truly representative because of elected senators, representatives, or the electoral college.
- Winner take all elections.
- How did the rival plans for the new government differ?
The Virginia plan wanted representation to be based off of population, and the Jersey plan wanted representation to be equal across all states. So they compromised.
- What other conflicts required the Framers to compromise?
The more populous (slave owning) states wanted to count slaves as population, and the other states said no because they are basically animals like cattle. So they came up with the 3/5th compromise.
- Why was the Bill of Rights important to the ratification of the Constitution?
Because it ensured specific guaranteed rights for individuals.
- Why is the structure of Congress important?
Because it allowed them to compromise, and use checks and balances to ensure that none of them are too powerful.
- What is new federalism?
Era during the 1980’s where political leaders wanted to shrink national government and return power to the states.
