US_Politics_Basics_Flashcards
What is the U.S. Constitution?
The supreme law of the United States that establishes the framework of government.
What are the three branches of the U.S. government?
Legislative, Executive, Judicial.
What is the main role of the legislative branch?
To create and pass laws.
Who makes up the executive branch?
The President, Vice President, and federal agencies.
What is the primary role of the judicial branch?
To interpret laws and ensure they follow the Constitution.
What is the Bill of Rights?
The first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution, outlining individual freedoms.
How many years is a presidential term in the U.S.?
4 years.
How many U.S. senators are there?
100 (2 per state).
What is the Electoral College?
The system used to elect the President, where states have a set number of votes based on population.
What is the minimum voting age in the U.S.?
18 years old.
What are the two major political parties in the U.S.?
Democratic Party and Republican Party.
What is a political ideology?
A set of beliefs about the role of government and politics.
Which political party is typically associated with progressive policies?
The Democratic Party.
Which political party is generally associated with smaller government and lower taxes?
The Republican Party.
Who was the first President of the United States?
George Washington.
Which amendment abolished slavery in the U.S.?
The 13th Amendment.
What is the significance of the Declaration of Independence?
It declared the American colonies’ independence from Britain in 1776.
Who is known as the ‘Father of the Constitution’?
James Madison.
What is the role of Congress in passing laws?
Bills must be approved by both the House of Representatives and the Senate before becoming law.
What does ‘bipartisanship’ mean?
Cooperation and agreement between members of both major political parties.