Articles of Confederation
America's first written constitution; served as the basis for America's national government until 1789
Bill of Rights
The first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1791; they ensure certain rights and liberties to the people.
Supremacy Clause
Article VI of the Constitution, which states that laws passed by the national government and all treaties are the supreme law of the land and superior to all laws adopted by any state or any subdivision.
19th Amendment
Extending voting rights to women.
Federalist
Those who favor a strong national government and supported the Constitution proposed at the American Constitutional Convention of 1787.
Antifederalist
Those who favored a strong state government and a weak national government. Were opponents of the Constitution proposed at the American Constitutional Convention of 1787.
Three-Fifths Compromise
The agreement reached at the Constitutional Convention of 1787 that stipulated that for purposes of the apportionment of congressional seats only three-fifths of slaves would be counted.
The Great Compromise
The agreement reached at the Constitutional Convention of 1781 that gave each state an equal number of senators regardless of its population but linked representation in the House of Representatives to population.
Massachusetts
Where did Shays's Rebellion occur?
The Great Compromise
AKA "The Connecticut Compromise" which bridged differences between the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan.
House
Representatives apportioned by population in state.
Senate
States with equal representation regardless of population.
2 years
How many term lengths (years) do people serve in the House?
6 years
How many term lengths (years) do people serve in the Senate?
Expressed powers
Specific powers granted by the Constitution to Congress and the president.
Implied powers
AKA "Necessary and proper clause". Provides Congress with authority to make all laws that are "necessary and proper" to carry out its enumerated powers.