Ch 2 Vocab #18-25 Flashcard

Front

What is the primary function of the legislative branch in the separation of powers?

Back

To create laws

Answer explanation

The primary function of the legislative branch is to create laws. This branch is responsible for drafting, debating, and passing legislation, distinguishing it from the executive branch, which enforces laws, and the judicial branch, which interprets them.

Front

Which event highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation? Options: The Boston Tea Party, The signing of the Declaration of Independence, Shays’ Rebellion, The Louisiana Purchase

Back

Shays’ Rebellion

Answer explanation

Shays’ Rebellion in 1786-1787 exposed the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, particularly the inability of the federal government to maintain order and address economic distress, leading to calls for a stronger central government.

Front

Who are considered stakeholders in policy outcomes?

Back

Individuals or groups with a vested interest

Answer explanation

Stakeholders in policy outcomes include individuals or groups with a vested interest, as they are affected by or can influence the policy. This is broader than just government officials, taxpayers, or elected representatives.

Front

What was the purpose of the Three-Fifths Compromise?

Back

To count slaves as three-fifths of a person for representation

Answer explanation

The Three-Fifths Compromise was established to count slaves as three-fifths of a person for representation in Congress, balancing the interests of slaveholding and non-slaveholding states in the legislative process.

Front

What is required for Congress to override a presidential veto?

Back

A two-thirds vote

Answer explanation

To override a presidential veto, Congress must achieve a two-thirds vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. This high threshold ensures that only legislation with significant support can bypass a presidential veto.

Front

What was the main purpose of the USA PATRIOT Act of 2001?

Back

To expand government surveillance powers to prevent terrorism

Answer explanation

The main purpose of the USA PATRIOT Act of 2001 was to expand government surveillance powers to prevent terrorism, enhancing law enforcement's ability to monitor and respond to potential threats.

Front

What power does the president have to reject a bill passed by Congress?

Back

Veto

Answer explanation

The president has the power to reject a bill passed by Congress through a veto. This action prevents the bill from becoming law unless Congress overrides the veto with a sufficient majority.

Front

What did the Virginia Plan propose for the structure of the legislature?

Back

A bicameral legislature with proportional representation based on state population

Answer explanation

The Virginia Plan proposed a bicameral legislature with representation based on state population, favoring larger states. This contrasts with options suggesting unicameral or equal representation, which were not part of the plan.

Front

Which branch of government is responsible for interpreting laws?

Back

Judicial

Answer explanation

The Judicial branch is responsible for interpreting laws, ensuring they are applied fairly and consistently. This branch includes courts and judges who resolve legal disputes and uphold the Constitution.

Front

What was a significant outcome of Shays’ Rebellion?

Back

The realization of the need for a stronger federal government

Answer explanation

A significant outcome of Shays’ Rebellion was the realization of the need for a stronger federal government, as the rebellion highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation in dealing with civil unrest and economic instability.