1 The Constitution and Its Principles Free Online FlashCards

What limited the national government under the Articles of Confederation?

The Articles created a loose union with a Congress that had limited ability to raise revenue or carry out decisions.

How did the Great Compromise balance large- and small-state interests?

The Great Compromise created a two-house Congress: House representation reflects state populations, while every state has equal representation in the Senate.

What is popular sovereignty?

Popular sovereignty means government derives its authority from the people. The Preamble expresses this principle with “We the People.”

What makes the U.S. government republican?

In a republic, people govern through elected representatives rather than exercising national power directly on every issue.

What does limited government require of public officials?

Limited government means officials and institutions must act within constitutional authority; the Constitution is the nation’s supreme law.

Which three branches share federal authority under separation of powers?

Separation of powers divides federal authority among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

How do checks and balances limit concentrated power?

Checks and balances give each branch constitutional means to restrain the others, helping prevent power from gathering in one place.

What does federalism divide, and between which governments?

Federalism divides authority between the national government and the states. The Constitution grants specific powers to the federal government while states retain broad responsibilities.

What does Article I establish?

Article I establishes Congress and its legislative powers.

What is the Bill of Rights?

The first ten amendments are the Bill of Rights, which protects rights and liberties.

What are the two ways to propose a constitutional amendment?

An amendment may be proposed by a two-thirds vote in both the House and Senate, or by a convention called by Congress after applications from two-thirds of state legislatures.

What is required to ratify a proposed amendment?

A proposed amendment must be ratified by three-fourths of the states. Congress chooses whether state legislatures or state conventions ratify it.