Gov Chapter 3 Test: The Constitution

Key Terms and Definitions

• Anti-Federalists: Opponents of the Constitution's ratification, fearing it threatened individual liberties and state rights.
• Article III: Establishes the judicial branch of the U.S. government.
• Article V: Outlines the process for amending the Constitution.
• Checks and Balances: Mechanism ensuring no single branch of government becomes too powerful by allowing each branch to limit the others.
• Confederation: An alliance of independent states or groups.
• Constitution: A structured, formal document delineating the framework for government.
• Executive Branch: Implements and enforces laws.
• Federalism: Distribution of power between national and state governments.
• Limited Government: Concept where governmental powers are restricted by law.
• Popular Sovereignty: Governance rests with the people’s consent and decision-making.
• Amendment: A formal change to the Constitution.
• Bicameral: A legislative body with two separate chambers.
• Constitutional Convention (1787): Gathering aimed at revising the Articles of Confederation; led to the Constitution's creation.
• Electoral College: Group designated by each state to formally elect the president and vice president.
• Judicial Branch: Interprets laws and administers justice.
• Legislative Branch: Responsible for making laws.
• Ratify: Formal approval process, particularly for amendments.
• Rule of Law: Legal principle that mandates all individuals are subject to the law.
• Separation of Powers: Division of government roles into distinct branches to prevent concentration of power.
• Three-Fifths Compromise: Agreement counting enslaved individuals as three-fifths for representation and taxation.

Federalist and Anti-Federalist Beliefs

• Federalist Beliefs: Advocated for a strong national government to ensure stability and protection of property rights.
• Anti-Federalist Beliefs: Warned the new Constitution jeopardized individual liberties and favored the affluent over ordinary citizens. Criticized the absence of a Bill of Rights.

Constitutional Compromises and Processes

• Federalist Strategy for Ratification: Compromise included a promise to add a Bill of Rights.
• Great Compromise: Established a bicameral legislature; Senate with equal representation for states and House based on population.
• Necessary and Proper Clause: Grants Congress the authority to pass laws necessary to execute its enumerated powers.

Government Structure and Powers

• Article I Powers: Defined three branches of government; includes specifics on the legislative process, taxation, and impeachments.
• Checks on Executive Branch: Veto power and judicial appointing authority.
• Checks on Judicial Branch: Judicial review enabling declaration of unconstitutional acts.
• Checks on Legislative Branch: Impeachment powers, treaty approval, and capability to override vetoes.

Historical Context and Influence

• Shay's Rebellion: Highlighted weaknesses in the Articles of Confederation, showcasing the need for a stronger federal government.
• Influence of Historical Documents: Magna Carta and English Bill of Rights provided foundational ideas leading to incorporation of a Bill of Rights in U.S. governance.
• Amending the Articles of Confederation: Required unanimous agreement from all 13 states, making changes exceedingly difficult.

Articles and Preamble

• Article IV: Discusses inter-state relations, ensuring a republican government in states.
• Preamble's Reflection of Popular Sovereignty: "We the people" emphasizes the authority of the citizenry in governance.
• Judicial Framework of Article III: Establishes the Supreme Court as well as federal and state judiciary systems.