Unit 4 National Government Notes Questions Flashcards
What outlines the structure of the national government?
The U.S. Constitution
What is federalism?
the national and state governments both have powers
Which level in our federal system of government is supreme?
national government
What are the primary responsibilities of the national government?
conduct foreign policy
regulate commerce
provide for the common defense
What is foreign policy?
It is our government’s relationship with other countries.
What is commerce?
trade (national government regulates trade between states and with other countries)
What are reserved powers?
powers set aside for state governments
Which amendment created reserved powers?
10th amendment
What is a federal mandate?
when the national government requires action by the state government
What are examples of reserved powers?
licensing, education, promoting public health, safety, and welfare
What are concurrent powers?
Powers that are shared by the national and state governments (ex. taxation)
What are the three branches of government?
legislative, executive, judicial
What does separation of powers mean?
each branch of government is given distinct and separate powers
What are checks and balances?
The power that each branch has to limit the powers of the other branches
What is Congress?
legislative branch
