American Government (Chapter 2)

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.