US Government and Constitution Terms

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Federalism

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The system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units.

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Sovereignty

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The supreme power or authority.

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Precedent

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A court decision that establishes a rule to be used for similar cases.

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Due Process

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Legal proceedings that protect individual rights against arbitrary action by the government.

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Popular Sovereignty

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The principle that political authority derives from the people.

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Elastic Clause

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Also known as the 'Necessary and Proper Clause,' it allows Congress to make laws needed to carry out its enumerated powers.

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Executive Branch

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The branch of government responsible for enforcing laws and policies.

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Electoral College

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The system used to elect the President and Vice President of the United States.

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Legislative Branch

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The branch of government responsible for making laws.

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Limited Government

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A government whose powers are defined and limited by a constitution.