The United States Constitution Flashcards
What was the Constitutional Convention?
The Articles of Confederation were clearly not sufficient. Led by George Washington, members held that men were innately selfish and needed checks and balances. Madison, as the Father, called for an executive branch and 2 houses of congress.
What was the Virginia Plan?
Devised by James Madison, the Virginia Plan outlined an executive branch and two houses of congress based on population.
What was the New Jersey Plan?
In a counter to the Virginia Plan, the New Jersey Plan called for a unicameral legislature with equal representation per state.
What was the great compromise?
Provided for one house based on population and one with equal representation. Before the compromise as reached, Franklin suggested starting the sessions with prayer.
What was the three-fifths compromise?
Each slave would count as 3/5ths of a person for representation purposes.
Who were the Federalists?
Advocates of centralized power.
Who were the antifederalists?
Advocates of more state power.
What key promise helped the ratification process of the Constitution?
The promise of a Bill of Rights to follow.
Describe Article 1 of the Constitution.
The Legislature. Divided into the House (by population, 435) and the Senate (100).
Describe the House of Representatives.
435 members by population. Serve 2-year terms, re-electable without limit, must be 25yo. All bills which involve money must begin in the House.
Describe the Senate.
100 members, 6-year terms, re-electable without limit, must be 30yo. Presided over by vice president.
Describe Article 2 of the Constitution
The executive branch.
Describe Article 3 of the Constitution
The Judiciary branch.
What does Article 4 of the Constitution deal with?
Inter-state relations. Guarantees that court decisions in one state are valid in all others.
What does Article 5 of the Constitution deal with?
The amendment process. Amendments are proposed by 2/3 vote of each house and ratified by 3/4 vote.
