Unit 3 Definitions Flashcards
Task system
A system used by slave owners that made the management of slaves easier. Every morning an overseer would assign a specific duty to each slave and allowed them to work at their own pace. When the task was completed the slave would have the rest of the day to themselves.
“Mr. President”
An argument among members of congress. The debate was over the title of the president. John Adams argued for titles such as “your highness” but George Washington said no. Titles relating to royalty were not a good idea because the U.S. could be seen as hypocritical. The title for the president ended on “Mr. President” because it was a good balance between formality and informality.
“Alcoholic Republic”
A term used to describe the state of the United States during the mid 18 century. The term was used because drunkenness among colonists became a problem and became a threat to the social order of the people. The preferred drink was whisky because it was cheaper, cleaner, and “safer” compared to drinking water.
popular sovereignty
the people consent to be governed and specify the powers and rules by which they shall be governed
federalism
principle of shared power. federal government allows the people of each state to deal with their needs in their own way. at the same time, it lets the states act together to deal with matters that affect all Americans.
enumerated powers
powers belonging only to the federal government. include the power to coin money, regulate interstate and foreign trade, maintain the armed forces, and create federal courts
reserved powers
powers retained by the states. include the power to establish schools, pass marriage and divorce laws, and regulate trade within a state. the Tenth Amendment says that all powers not specifically granted to the federal government “are reserved to the States.”
concurrent powers
powers the state and federal governments share. they include the right to raise taxes, borrow money, provide for public welfare, and administer criminal justice.
override
Congress can override, or reverse, the president’s veto if two-thirds of the members of both the Senate and the House of Representatives vote again to approve the law.
appropriate
The government cannot spend any money unless Congress appropriates, or sets aside, funds. all tax and spending bills must originate in the House of Representatives and gain approval in both the House and the Senate before moving on to the president for signature.
impeach
The House of Representatives can impeach, or bring formal charges against, any federal official it suspects of wrongdoing or misconduct. If an official is impeached, the Senate acts as a court and tries the accused official. Officials who are found guilty may be removed from office
constituent
members of Congress have the responsibility of representing their constituents, the people of their home states and districts
bill
proposed laws
standing comittees
permanent committees in both the House and the Senate that specialize in a particular topic, such as agriculture, commerce, or veterans’ affairs. These committees are usually divided into subcommittees that focus on a particular aspect of an issue
select comittee
Congress creates these to deal with issues requiring special attention. These committees meet only until they complete their task.
